The client had chosen a stunning limestone tile throughout the kitchen and orangery of their property as part of a renovation. The stone had been installed 12 months previous to their enquiry and as the works were continuing, it had been protected with a breathable builders cardboard.
However, when cardboard was removed they discovered that some, but not all, of the slabs had white staining on the edges. This staining is known as efflorescence (rising salt deposits). It is a phenomenon that we see most commonly in newly laid floors and occurs when moisture gets underneath the tiles. Often the salts that form on the surface come from the adhesive/bedding underneath and are drawn up through the capillaries in the stone.
Luckily this is something that Athena Stonecare have lots of experience with and have treated successfully on numerous occasions. In order to return the stone to its intended finish first the limestone floor tiles were resurfaced using diamond abrasives. An organic stain remover was then applied as required to tiles affected by moisture. Finally the limestone was re-finished to an 800 grit satin hone and apply 4 coats of water based colour enhancing impregnating sealant.