FAQs

Welcome to the Marble Kare USA Question & Answer Section

You may contact us for any additional questions or technical assistance at info@marblekareusa.com or call 800.458.8415. If you are in need of the proper maintenance and cleaning products for your Marble, Granite, Saturnia, Travertine and other Natural Stone surfaces visit us at www.marblekareproducts.com or call 800.790.8327

How can I tell if my Marble, Granite, Travertine or other Natural stone surfaces and grout are sealed or in need of re-sealing?

You can test the surface by releasing water droplets on the surface in a few different areas. Allow the droplets to stand 5-10 minutes then blot dry with a towel. If the surface has darkened it should return to its original color in 2-3 minutes. If it stays darkened for a longer period of time your Marble surface may need to be re-sealed.

If my marble surface is polished to a high finish, does it still need to be sealed?

Yes. Marble and natural stone regardless of the finish is still porous and is susceptible to dirt penetrating the surface and staining. The surface still should be sealed with a penetrating sealer.

What is the best way to maintain natural stone surfaces in showers and tub areas?

In these areas Natural stone surfaces should be sealed with a mold and mildew inhibitor or penetrating sealer. The surface should be maintained by using a squeegee to remove water on a regular basis. Clean regularly using a product without harsh chemicals specific for shower stalls and wet areas.

Can I use a topical (coating type) sealer on my marble surfaces.

This is not recommended. Topical coatings typically block the pours of natural stone not allowing the stone to breathe. The surface will also ware terribly, due to easy scratching through out the surface coating on the floor. Dirt will also quickly build up on the floors surface making regular cleaning more difficult. Penetrating type sealers are recommended for marble and natural stone surfaces.

Which is better to use, a solvent (oil) based sealer or a water-based sealer?

Some people just have a preference to the type of sealer they want to use. The difference between these sealers is their carrier. Oil or solvent base blends and water which is the carrier transfers the actual sealing properties into the surface. Water based products are found to be more environmentally friendly, however it is the quality and blend of sealing properties used in the product that determines its performance.

Is there an advantage to using a solvent (oil) based sealer verses a water based sealer?

Yes. When cleaning and re-sealing Marble, Granite, Travertine or any other Natural stone and grout periodically as recommended, with the water based sealer not only is it more environmentally friendly also the surface can air dry a few hours prior to sealing and does not need to be 100% dry which in turn will save time. When using a solvent base sealer the surface needs to be completely dry, overnight is recommended. Excess moisture present during application will cause a reaction and may create a milky affect on the surface which will result in having to strip and re-seal the surface.

Does sealing a Marble, Granite, Travertine or Natural stone surface make it stain proof?

No. A Penetrating Sealer is designed to create stain resistance. The purpose is to create reaction time where as the stain can be held at surface level and can be easily cleaned before absorbing in to the porous surface. The type of liquid from a harsh cleaning chemical tends to leave a stain quickly. It is always recommended to use cleaning products that are safe for polished Natural Stone surfaces.

If my marble floor has been previously sealed, and I do not know the sealer that was used how would I go about re-sealing my floor?

If you do not know the previous sealer used, it is good to do a test by releasing water droplets in a few areas to determine porosity. If there is no coating and water penetrates a penetrating sealer was probably used and should work fine. It is recommended cleaning the surface with a neutral ph cleaner prior to application. If a coating type sealer was used it is important to strip the old coating from the surface prior to re-applying another coating type sealer. visit marblekareproducts.com for safe and effective cleaning and sealing products

If I get a ring or dull spots (often referred to as etch marks) on my polished marble and stone surfaces is there something that can be done to correct this?

Yes there are products available on the market for small repairs that effectively removes these “etch marks” however if there are multiple spots and the area is too large it would be suggested to call in a professional that specializes in natural stone maintenance and restoration. Visit marblekareproducts.com for safe and effective cleaning and sealing products

When refinishing a marble floor, how much dust is created?

There shouldn’t be any. When diamond polishing a Marble floor typically the pads are lubricated with water during the process.

I am trying to bring out the color of my stone and I don’t want a shiny finish. Will a color enhancer also create a shiny finish?

No it will not if applied correctly. Color enhancers are designed to darken and bring out the colors in natural stone. The product is applied like a penetrating sealer and if applied as specified leaving no excess product on the surface there will be no shine.

I have been told in the past to use vinegar and water to clean my Marble and Natural Stone surfaces is this true? If not, what should I be using?

No. Vinegar is an acid which will dull the floor surface and will leave the floor full of stains. A neutral cleaner should be used for cleaning preferably one that has conditioning agents that requires no rinsing. Visit marblekareproducts.com for safe and effective cleaning and sealing products.

I have a marble shower that has a heavy build up of soap scum and mold, what can I use to safely clean the surface with out damaging the finish.

First it is good to use a rubber squeegee regularly. This will help eliminate the build up of body oil and soap scum. To clean the surface an intensive cleaner with out harsh chemicals or a mold remover will effectively take care of this problem. Visit marblekareproducts.com for safe and effective cleaning and sealing products.

What is efflorescence? Can it be resolved?

Efflorescence is a condition where, as moisture evaporates it brings mineral and salt sediments through the material to the surface. A polished surface may have a blotchy appearance and textured feel to it. There are different degrees of efflorescence in which various circumstances contribute to it. Lightly buffing the surface with fine steel wool usually removes the sediment, however there is a possibility the efflorescence may reappear.

Does all grout need to be sealed?

Yes. It’s recommended to seal grout as it is very porous with the exception of 100% epoxy grout which sealer will not adhere to or be needed.

Have additional questions?

You may contact us for any additional questions, or technical assistance at info@marblekareusa.com or call: 800.458.8415.

If you’re in need of the proper maintenance and cleaning products for your Marble, Granite, Saturnia, Travertine and other Natural Stone surfaces visit us at marblekareproducts.com or call: 800.790.8327

Marble Kare USA

1181 South Rogers Circle # 17 Boca Raton Florida 33487