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Travertine counter stain

Article Number: 257 | Rating: Unrated | Last Updated: Sun, Jul 29, 2007 at 12:00 AM

We have a raised pass through counter/bar top made of travertine. After a small get together i noticed some " etching" from spilled drinks, and a few red wine stains. I understand that the etching is from acid in the drinks. It mostly appears as a discoloration in the effected areas. I preformed a test in a small area to see how well it would work: I cut a lime in half, and rubbed it in a small effected area, with seamingly good results. Is there any reason why I could not Purposely etch the entire surface to give it a uniform apperance.

Dear Mike:

The last time a checked, there was no law against it!... :-)

Joking aside, there's no technical reason against it, either. Insted of using lemon wedges, you could use white vinegar and get the same effect. I would then finish the job with a light sanding (yes, good ol' sandpaper - metal-grade, preferably) at 240 grit. This is to expose again a good layer of stone that was "destroyed" by the acid. Finish the job with the application of a good quality stone impregnator like MB-4, or, if you prefer a deeper look (like when the stone is wet), MB-6 instead.

May I ask you now to please read and e-sign our Statement of Purpose at: http://www.marblecleaning.org/purpose.htm? :-)

Ciao and good luck,

Maurizio Bertoli

www.marblecleaning.org – The Only Consumers' Portal to the Stone Industry Establishment!