Expert Answers in Stains

ANSWER - Sorry you having a problem with your limestone.  Limestone normally does well in shower areas. I have seen this type of staining before.  There are a number of variables and factors that can…

ANSWER - I just wrote an article for the Construction Specifier that will be published in May 2013 that talks about this type of problem and potential causes. Key things to look at are: 1.…

ANSWER - The photos aren't great, but I suspect it is a condition called "Optical Haze."   It looks like you have a polished porcelain tile.  During the polishing process at the factory there can…

ANSWER -  I am responding to your email below regarding the serious issues you have with your marble on board your yacht that include large areas of floors, sink tops, and walls.  You indicate that…

ANSWER - If you use a latex in a dry set thin-set mortar rather than adding water to a modified thin-set mortar you will reduce the mineral content in the thin-set, but probably not significantly.  You…

ANSWER - I assume when you say homogeneous tiles they are unglazed through-body tiles.   Sounds like the concrete was stained yellow and that pigment from the cement is wearing off and contaminating the surface of the…

ANSWER - Based on what you said, it sounds like the glaze surface has some porosity.  I have seen some imported glazed tiles absorb and leave wet spots that will later dry out.  I would…

ANSWER - Normally it is due to the color of the thin-set adhesive that affects the color of the glass tile.  I suppose the grout color can to, but generally speaking white grout doesn't distract from…

ANSWER - You indicated you installed a 1/2" thick limestone over CMU (concrete block) and have not grouted it yet.  Apparently there are dark stains on the surface of the limestone showing that have not gone…

ANSWER - True geologically classified granite stone is normally very resistant to staining and chemicals.  There are some stones sold as granite that are not true granites and they could be more susceptible to staining and…