Expert Answers in Wet Areas

ANSWER - When there is a problem it normally is not due to one deficiency, but due to multiple compounding deficiencies. You state that the peel and stick moisture barrier was properly installed.  If if…

ANSWER - Limestone is commonly used in shower applications.  Not all limestone are the same.  There are ASTM material standards for each geological classification of natural stone that lists what the maximum or minimum physical…

ANSWER - I have seen Carrara Marble installed in showers and steam shower successfully, but I have also seen where there were staining problems. Many marbles contain pyrite (iron sulfide) minerals which is a natural…

ANSWER -  Industry standards require tile floor surfaces in areas that are subject to being wet must have a slope to drain of 1/4 inch per foot.   So if  water is getting into your screed…

ANSWER -  Normally installing tile over damp mortar doesn't cause staining.  We call that a wet set method if the mortar is installed at the same time as the tile is installed.  A thin-set adhesive…

Answer - If you have subway tiles, I assume you are talking about tiles on the walls of the shower.  Although perhaps you did install the subway tiles on the shower floor. Most subway tiles…

ANSWER - You have to be careful on what cleaning products you use on tile, stone or grout.  Some of the grocery store brands may not be reliable for the type of cleaning you want…

ANSWER -  The TEC 550 Power Grout says it is a unique cementitious formula, and that its unique formulation is stain proof* and provides strong, color consistent joints free of efflorescence that is resistant to…

ANSWER - Quartz Stone is a man-made material that is about 90% natural quartz suspended in a resin base. Natural stone and quartz stone can be affected by various chemicals.  The chemicals whether very acidic…

ANSWER - Depending on whether the travertine tiles have been maintained properly or not over the years, it may require a more in-depth cleaning; particularly if there is staining in the stone. Generally speaking, on…