Is there any dust created during the restoration process?
Generally, no. The sanding/grinding process during stone flooring restoration uses water which traps the dust. During grout removal (if needed), a HEPA filter system is used to clean the air and machinery is attached to a HEPA vacuum system. Some adjoining rooms may be protected with plastic sheeting. All floor vents are protected with plastic to reduce airflow and to minimize any dust becoming airborne. The floor is then scrubbed and wet-vacuumed to reduce any remaining dust which also helps adhere new grout installation. As of yet I have had no complaints about dust or additional cleaning for the homeowner.
How often does stone need to be sealed?
Showers (especially white marble) are recommended to be cleaned and sealed every 2 to 3 years. Daily use of showers lessens sealer after time. Guest bathroom showers which are used less frequently will require sealing less often. I recommend sealing kitchen countertops every 2 to 3 years. This is a guideline. Sometimes cleaning products that aren’t designed for stone will remove sealer or reduce its lifespan. I generally use 511 Porous Plus which is a petroleum based product that has a longer lifespan. Petroleum based products cannot be used in areas that don’t have adequate ventilation. Sometimes a low VOC sealer needs to be used which won’t last as long. Stone flooring can last 4 to 5 years depending upon useage. Heavy foot traffic, pets, and use of upright vacuums can also reduce sealer lifespan.
How much will it cost?
This question makes me cringe every time I hear it! I don’t have a clue! Sending pictures helps but I always need to personally look at the project. There are too many variables. Every stone is different, traffic wear and damage are different. Sometimes there are grout issues. Good news… the estimates are free! The estimate usually takes about 10 minutes per area and then I can get the information I need and I will send you a proposal for review.
What is a stun mark?
A mark that is caused by a harder object than the stone striking the stone. It leaves a pale white mark (damaged crystals) that is permanent and generally cannot be removed. It is prevalent on white marble. Very common on countertops from dropping dishes or setting tools too hard on the surface.
How do I schedule to have work done?
First you can email, call, or text to schedule an estimate. I’ll look at it and give you an idea of what it will take to restore it. I’ll then customize a proposal for your unique job and email it to you. Once you receive the proposal and review the notes and procedures, you can then approve the proposal by signing and returning to me via email. Once I receive your signed proposal I will contact you with available dates. I cannot hold any dates without a signed proposal.
Can I change the finish on my stone to a different finish?
Marble, limestone, travertine, onyx, quartzite, and dolomite can generally be changed. Granite can be changed but the cost (most of the time) is not worth it due to the hardness and mineral make-up of the stone. The trend lately is to take a polished finish and convert it to a honed finish. Honed finish can also be converted to a polished finish. We also offer a matte or satin honed finish which is mid-way between the polished and honed finishes. A tumbled or brush-hammered finish can be polished to give it a frosted look. The only exception is for shower floors. Even if it was installed polished, Alexandria Marble will not polish shower floors. For safety reasons and liability, all shower floors will be honed or cleaned and sealed only with no resurfacing. The only option for stone shower floors is a honed finish.
