Etches Explained

What is an etch? How is an etch repaired?

"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."

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...

Common household products that etch marble/limestone/travertine

Producs and Foods that etch - AVOID PRODUCTS b

Questions?

Call or email with any questions about caring for your stone