Q. I installed honed crema marfil tile in my master bathroom on the floor, tub surround and in the shower. My contractor/ installer sealed it and the sealer left a cloudy residue. The contracter brought someone else in that removed the residue and sealed it again leaving yet another layer of residue. In retrospect it seems the marble probably didn't need to be sealed and can't absorb the material. So I have two questions, 1. How can I remove the existing residue or have it removed and 2. What can I use on the honed crema marfil for general care and regular weekly cleaning that will not damage the stone?

 

A. Yes, it sounds like the sealer was left on the surface and not removed which is not the proper way to seal the stone. Depending on how much of a film is on the surface, it may be removed using some acetone and a rag. Please wear proper gloves if you try this yourself. If this doesn't work then the film will need to be polished off. This will require the services of a professional restoraton company. You can find someone in your area here: www.stoneandtilepros.com/findapro.php.

 

You can also find a care guide at www.stoneandtilepros.com/care-guide.pdf. It will arm you with everything you need to know for cleaning and maintaining your stone.

 

Dr. Fred

 

Fred M. Hueston, PhD