Q. I have marble tile in my shower that has streaks. These streaks look like water spots but they got there when I used a chemical cleaner to remove the lime buildup on the marble. I have diamond polishing pads in multiple grits. Can you tell me how I should proceed with restoring this marble? Do I need to remove the existing sealer? If yes, how do I do this. Thank you!

 

A. Hi- The cleaner you used to remove the lime buildup was acidic and has etched your marble. Without experience, using those diamond pads on a vertical surface is rather difficult. There are many more factors involved in the restoration process. The sealer is not an issue or factor to restore your marble. We don't believe in sealing polished stone in shower stalls anyway. What staining would you get on a vertical wall? As you can see the sealer was useless in preventing the etching from the cleaner you used. You need a bona fide pro to correct your stone. He or she can will be more than happy to educate you on the care of your stone. Find one at www.stoneandtilepros.com

 

Stu Rosen