Etches Explained

"Acid-soluble stone materials such as the calcite in marble, limestone and travertine... react with acidic solutions on contact... Acid erodes the stone, leaving dull marks on polished surfaces. In time it may cause deep pitting... mild household acids, including cola, wine, vinegar, lemon juice and milk, can damage vulnerable types of stone. The milder the acid, the longer it takes to etch calcite-based stone; stronger acids can cause damage in seconds."

Wikipedia

Below is a quick infographic of how etches are repaired, the depth of the grinding is dramatized, typically far less than 1/32 of an inch is removed from the surface.

An acidic substance (in this case lemon juice) is spilled onto the marble/limestone.

The lemon juice sits on the marble, reacting with the surface, eating away at the stone.

The affected area is left rough and pitted: the lemon juice has broken down the stone.

The first step to repairing the etch requires grinding into the surface past (deeper than) the damaged area.

The area is then gradually feathered out to match the surrounding stone using a series of consecutively finer/smoother diamond grinding disks.

The area is then polished/honed to match the surrounding undamaged material. Sealer to finish.

The Culprits

A few common sources of etches...

DO NOT USE

Most of the products used to clean ceramic and porcelaine will etch marble. Eco "green" cleaners will also etch marble. Always test your hand soap, dish soap and other detergents that come in contact with your natural stone.
Look for citric acid if using eco-based cleaners

What can you use?

• A few drops of neutral dish soap or soap formulated for use on marble
• For floors, use a well wrung out mop - we suggest a spin mop
• Dedicated microfiber cloth for countertops
• Rinse with clean water to avoid film or streaks

Care Guide

Some examples of etches we've removed

Looking to restore your etched floor or countertop?

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