Stone Restoration: Bringing the Life Back to Marble, Granite and More
Anything made of natural stone - whether it’s a floor, countertop or shower - gets dingy, stained and damaged over the years. Natural stone, like most other materials, requires occasional cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking new.
Professional stone restoration companies can revive all kinds of natural stone, including marble, granite, travertine, terrazzo, limestone and concrete. Services vary based on the condition of your stone and the look you want, but they can include cleaning, polishing, honing, repairing and sealing. Most companies do residential and commercial work.
How Does Stone Restoration Work?
The process starts with an inspection to evaluate the damage and/or dirt. If the stone is dirty but there are no scratches or dents, the company will clean the stone with special chemicals that are designed for the material. Then, in most cases, the company will either polish or hone (matte finish) the surface and apply a sealer.
If scratches and other damage exist, the company will remove the damage with a process known as mechanical abrasion, or diamond grinding. The name sounds harsh, but the process is safe. Again, they will finish by polishing or honing and then sealing.
This gives you a general idea of how the process works, but keep in mind that techniques vary based on the type of stone, its condition and the type of finish. An experienced company will know which method to use after a simple inspection. After the process is complete, the company should walk you through proper care and maintenance techniques that can be done at home to keep the stone looking good.
Hiring a Stone Restoration and Polishing Company
Natural stone is expensive. You’re hiring a restoration company because you don’t want to pay for replacement, so the last thing you want is a company that ruins the stone. Nothing in this process is more important than picking an experienced and reputable company.
Here are some tips:
- Always seek quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services. Throw out any bids that seem suspiciously high or low.
- Do background research on the remaining companies. How long have they been in business? Are they certified with the Institute of Cleaning and Restoration Certification? What do online reviews say, and what is the company’s record with the Better Business Bureau? Ask to see before and after photos, too.
- Find out up front if the work is guaranteed. What are the stipulations?
- Ask what steps are taken to protect surrounding surfaces such as wood floors and carpeting. Diamond grinding involves using a lot of water, and nearby surfaces can be damaged if the company is not careful.
Author: Ashley Smith