As Spring has arrived and protective matting gets removed from the many entranceways of buildings, we can’t help but notice the effects that Winter has left behind. On the exterior of the buildings, you’ll notice damage caused by freezing. Interior damage is caused from the tracking in of salts, sand and de-icing agents. We […]
Granite, the igneous rock formed from magnum, is very dense, hard and brittle. Granite certainly stands up very well against heavy foot traffic, making it preferable for commercial lobbies and walkways. Granite is at the top of hardness amongst all natural stones. Resistant to most chemical etching, granite is also ideal for counter tops and […]
As we say good bye to Winter and welcome in Spring and warm weather we notice that slate and other natural stone surfaces have dulled and lost their natural shine and luster. Even with the best of care, slate surfaces tend to dull over time. Deicing agents, sand and the natural salts and minerals […]
As we welcome in Spring and begin to remove protective mats and rugs from floors and entranceways, the crystallization of many deicing salts and spreading of sand may have caused deterioration of the stone, terrazzo and masonry surfaces. This effect is called subflorescence. Snow and ice melters containing Calcium Chloride, etc. are the cause of […]
I recently attended an event that featured a presentation by an interior designer on design and décor including tile selection. It’s very important to select the proper tile for the right application. Often design and color and finish will override safety. In wet areas, it’s important to select a tile that has high traction, or […]
Here are several factors to keep in mind: All natural stone has inherent characteristics; it is natural; and therefore always imperfect. (Or perfectly imperfect, depending upon your view.) Some materials are easier to maintain than others. The appearance of natural stone will always patina over time. Without exception. All natural stone should be set properly, […]
Why should Natural Stone Be Sealed? To retain the beauty, preserve the life, and keep it maintainable. Staining, discoloration, erosion, and odor absorption are all typical adversities that happen to stone if not sealed. As stone wears, abrasions damage the finish by opening up pores and exposing the stone to problems. All natural stone is […]
The natural stone you have purchased for your home or office is an investment that will give you many years of beautiful service. Like any organic substance, natural stone is susceptible to certain factors that can cause it to lose its natural luster and strength including wear and tear, weather, and even the chemicals found […]
All materials – natural materials in particular – are perfectly imperfect. Materials will have a wide range of characteristics (i.e. factory-repaired holes, cracks and fissures). There will be variation from piece to piece. Materials will stain, scratch, etch, patina and/or effloresce. And there’s no such thing as a “perfect” installation. All of this is perfectly […]
