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Black Granite Fading By Frederick M. Hueston I have received numerous calls lately concerning the fading of black granite countertops. The most common complaints seem to be on Absolute Black, Black Galaxy, Zimbabwe Black and a few others. I have... Read More

  Efflorescence - Removal and Prevention   By Frederick M. Hueston www.stoneforensics.com The crystallization of soluble salts in Historic masonry causes severe deterioration of the substrate. This crystallization is called... Read More

Q. Travertine floor was cleaned and holes filled w/ dia-glo traverfill. I used razor blade but what is the best way to remove the excess that got on tile? Just buff out then hone and seal? Thanks! A. If the travertine is polished you can polish with... Read More

Q. We tiled our backsplash with tumbled marble subway tiles. We DIDN'T seal the tiles first (DUMB MOVE). Then we grouted half the kitchen and found that not only did we hate the grout color but it colored our light tumbled marble stones a... Read More

Q. I have Italian Marble in my foyer and my daughter spilled orange juice on it and etched it. Can it be fixed or does it need to be replaced? A. In most cases, light etching can be fixed by using a marble polishing powder or compound and following... Read More

The water spots are, of course, literally caused by the hard water. There are several silicone waxes that can be applied to the tile to help prevent them from forming. A vinegarand-water mixture works well for removing these spots. TIP If this... Read More

Q. How do we clean white spots from bird droppings on colored concrete? We have a church under construction with tiles on the floor. Windows hadn't been put in yet, and birds came in. The tiles are left stained white from the droppings.Â... Read More

Q. I have yellow staining on my marble around my sink. I believe it's from the water sitting around the edge of the sink. Do you have a product you'd recommend to remove the yellow? I can't feel it like an etched stain. Would the... Read More

Q. Can I use neutral stone cleaner on my black leather countertops?   A. By black leather countertops are you referring to the leather-look treatment on your natural stone countertops? If so, then yes, of course, a quality neutral cleaner for stone... Read More

Q. I have to do a repair around a jetted tub set in 12" travertine tile landing. All the tiles are set in grout. Is there a way to dissolve the grout & save the tiles? Thanks, Tom--A. Hi Tom, There is a risk factor involved with this task. Of... Read More