Expert Answers in stone

Xypex is suppose to waterproof the concrete.  So in theory it should prevent moisture migration in the concrete wall to help reduce the possibility of efflorescence.  You can still get efflorescence from the mortar or…

ANSWER - I am assuming that when you say stone tiles, you mean natural stone cut into tile shapes.  When you say the tile bends, I am assuming you mean that it warps. Some types…

ANSWER - It could be that there are voids under those portions of the tile where they sound hollow.  Hollow sounds are not a defect, but they could be a symptom of a defect.  …

ANSWER - The black stain in the water has to be coming from somewhere and caused by something.  The question is where and what? The question is what type of tile do you have?  There…

ANSWER - The CBC (California Building Code) and ADA  (Americans with Disability Act) are vague and subjective regarding slip resistance requirements.   There are quantitative standards for ceramic tile in ANSI A137.1…

ANSWER - The best counter tops for laboratories that is known to be chemical resistant is soapstone.  It is a natural stone that has been used for many years in these types of applications.  It comes…

ANSWER - It is possible heat the surface of the granite tile after it is installed with a torch to obtain a flamed finish, but it can result in damaging the stone by causing it…

ANSWER - You should use an ASTM C920 silicone sealant suitable for granite. Laticrete has a product called Latasil that comes in many colors. Dow Corning has a product called 795 or 790 that comes in a…

ANSWER - First of all a hollow sounding marble floor is not considered a defect in itself.   It could be a symptom of a defect.  The only way to determine that is to see…

ANSWER - Plywood can be used as sheathing on an exterior wall, although it has to be protected with a grade D breathable moisture barrier. Mechanically attaching the stone to the plywood itself is not…