Travertine Restoration – Natural Stone Restoration

HAS YOUR TRAVERTINE LOST ITS LUSTER?

“Travertine Limestone” and “Travertine Marble” are the same stone. They are characterized by winding, irregular holes in the surface, with the flats finished to varying degrees of smoothness and reflectivity. “Shell Stone” is another type of this same material with shells imbedded.

Travertine has undeniably become more and more popular in the past few years. With that popularity there have been corresponding problems. Some relate to installation, while others are an inferior grade of stone and there remains the ever present failure to use the proper stone cleaning process and product. Take a look at our Stone Blog for some common sense caveats for care and maintenance.

Travertine Restoration:

The characteristic voids in Travertine were caused by gases present when the rock was in the molten state. These voids appear as holes in the tiles and are either filled during the fixing process or at the Factory. Natural Stone Restoration Care’s restoration process may involve filling an entire floor or random tiles that have these voids. The fill is either a form of grout or an epoxy resin filling. Our craftsmen also perform crack repairs, grout repairs, grout restoration for soiled grout all of which is done based on the level of restoration your particular surface requires and the finish you desire. Natural Stone Restoration Care uses the latest state-of-the-art equipment, diamond abrasives and other tools to restore your surfaces to like new again.

Travertine Restoration Grinding:

Using the highest impact abrasives (lowest grits) this method is designed to remove a measurable amount of stone. Uneven tile edges (lippage) can be evened out using this method. Depending on the density of your stone and severity of lippage, our grinding process and state-of-the-art machinery is the most efficient available.

Travertine Etching:

Travertine, Marble and Limestone are all subject to etching. Etches are small scratches that create a dull spot on the stone. Mostly caused by spills containing any type of acid: Citrus, wine, alcohol, vinegar, pet accidents all contain acids. Acid eats calcium carbonate found in these stones and the result is an etch. The natural chemical reaction is almost immediate and can vary in severity depending on acid level, how long it sits, and the size. Penetrating sealers guard against the acid from eating through layers of the stone, thereby keeping the etch on top so it can be buffed out again during regular professional maintenance.

Example of large etches on Travertine. Acidic and/or abrasive cleaning agents and methods will also cause etching. Stick to soft cleaning cloths with a neutral stone cleaner.
(Abrasives and techniques will vary according to grade, density, porosity and installation of the stone. Travertine, Marble and Limestone have different characteristics, use different approaches, and provide varying results
due to being a naturally occurring product)

Satin Glow Finish:

A soft subtle sheen for a clean and uniform look. Rids the stone of the dull chalky appearance so common with newly installed Travertine.