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Damaged Dimension Stone Panels

Should damaged dimension stone panels be restored or replaced?

Dimension stone panels are vertically placed, non load-bearing stone slabs, found as an ornamental facing on both building exteriors and interiors, in both new construction and renovation projects. Potential problems with dimension stone panels include chips, cracks, stains, and bowing. This article explains which problems can be resolved by your qualified professional stone restoration technician, and which problems require replacement.

About Dimension Stone Panels

Dimension stone panels are a popular design choices for business centers, corporate headquarters, hotels, educational facilities, hospitals, libraries, government buildings, embassies, airports, churches, and high-end residential properties. Dimension stone panels protect and insulate, but their main purpose is to convey a sense of permanence, stability, and beauty. Because natural stone is a non-manufactured product, it is a very unique and enviable surface material for panels with character. Architects and designers have a wide variety of options with dimension stone, because each slab has its own unique color, grain, veining, and other features. There are also a wide variety of stone finishes include polished, honed, sand blasted, leathered, flamed, and more. Edge options are just as numerous, including straight, smooth, rough split, chiseled, beveled, etc.

Potential Problems

With proper anchoring, most dimension stone is appropriate for interior panels. Although a majority of natural stone restoration services are performed on horizontal applications like floors, countertops, and vanity tops, vertical applications in high-use areas like showers and hallway walls get their share of damage, too, because of exposure to moisture, improper cleaners, or mishaps. Damage may include chips, scratches, dullness, cracks, and stains.

Exterior dimension stone panels are exposed to the elements. Positive and negative pressure from wind, structural settling and concrete contraction (in new construction), freeze and thaw cycles, porosity, and other factors may contribute to damage or even failure. Staining and etching may occur because of environmental pollution. Hard water and mineral deposits from irrigation system overspray can diminish the appearance of dimension stone panels.

One of the most common causes of external panel cracking or failure is thermal hysteresis, where the sun heats the outer layer of stone at a greater degree than the back side. Over time, the stone bows, not only losing its aesthetic appeal, but also posing a dangerous risk if the panels were to fall off. Once a stone panel is bowed, it cannot be restored, and replacement is the only option.

Dimension Stone Panel Alternatives

Modern, lightweight stone panels are comprised of a thin layer of stone reinforced by a fiberglass or aluminum honeycomb backing. Another alternative to dimension stone panels is large-format manufactured porcelain, which can also be reinforced by a honeycomb backing. With these alternative, bowing is not as much of an issue, because the temperature of the material remains more constant throughout, plus the backing material absorbs building stresses that would normally result in damage. Like dimension stone panels, the appearance of lightweight stone panels and large format manufactured porcelain can become diminished for a variety of reasons.

Your stone and tile restoration expert can consult with you about any damage on your dimension stone, lightweight stone, or porcelain panels and advise you on whether problems are cosmetic or structural. Cosmetic damage can most often can be restored with chip and crack repair, honing, polishing, refinishing, stain removal, and in some cases, panel replacement. Structural damage can sometimes be repaired, but is more likely to require complete replacement.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

Why Carpet Ripples Happen and What To Do About It

Carpet ripples, also referred to as buckling, wrinkling, or stretching, are loose, wavy areas that appear in wall-to-wall carpeting. Ripples may be temporary or an ongoing problem, depending on the situation. What should you do if your carpet ripples? Here are the details.

Professional Cleaning and Carpet Ripples

Although carpet ripples can appear after cleaning, proper professional cleaning does not cause ripples. Any ripples that appear after professional cleaning are temporary and will settle flat once the carpet is completely dry. If ripples persist, then there is some other problem causing the ripples.

Causes of Carpet Wrinkles

The most common causes of carpet rippling are improper installation, inadequate padding, and adhesive failure. The adhesives that secure your carpet in place are made of materials that can absorb moisture. Properly applied high-quality adhesives will hold up to excessive humidity exposure and professional carpet cleaning, and in some situations, may even maintain integrity after flooding. Other causes of carpet ripples include loss of elasticity in older carpets and tension failure due to heavy foot traffic or dragging heavy items.

What should I do if my carpet ripples?

Even perfectly installed, properly maintained, barely-walked-on carpets can ripple. It is a fairly common problem that can be easily resolved. If you have new or recently installed wall-to-wall carpet, ripple correction may be included in your warranty. Contact your carpet retailer or installer as soon as you notice the problem. Whether or not your carpet is new, in most cases a professional carpet installation contractor can power stretch and secure your carpet to eliminate the ripples. Until your scheduled appointment, avoid foot traffic in the rippled area to reduce the possibility of trip-and-fall accidents and permanent damage to the carpet.

Related Articles: How Improper Installation Complicates Carpet Cleaning

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

Soft Water Can Damage Marble

Most people are familiar with hard water damage on natural stone, but did you know that soft water can also damage certain types of natural stone? Read on to learn more about soft water damage and what can be done to protect your stone.

About Hard and Soft Water Damage

Hard water damage to natural stone is a buildup on the stone’s surface caused by mineral deposits. One would imagine that having a water softening system installed would protect natural stone. Although it is true that soft water will eliminate the problem of mineral deposits on stone, soft water can create an entirely new problem. Lacking in minerals, soft water pulls minerals from natural stone. If your stone is marble or some other soft, calcium-based stone, soft water can degrade and dissolve your stone.

Where Stone Is Used Makes a Difference

Obviously, there is no cause for concern when it comes to natural stone applications that rarely get water exposure, such as walls in an entryway or a fireplace mantel. Floors that are damp-mopped, countertops that are cleaned with a damp cloth, conference room table tops, and other surfaces that see minimal water exposure will probably do fine, as well. Kitchen countertops near the kitchen sink and surfaces that are constantly being wiped down, such as commercial bar tops and restaurant table tops may see some degradation, although this will happen very slowly over the course of a long period of time. The major problem area for both hard and soft water issues is bathroom showers, because the stone is exposed to an average of two gallons of water per minute every time someone showers.

Solutions to Minimize Soft Water Damage

Consider using silicate-based stones, such as granite, sandstone, slate, and quartzite where water exposure is excessive. If your stone is already in place, consider the following suggestions.

Use potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride pellets to soften your water.

Another option is to have a reverse osmosis drinking water system installed along with your water softener. Reverse osmosis removes over 95% of “everything” in the water, including sodium.

Since water with salts removed will dissolve soft calcium based stones, you will also need to have the stone sealed to reduce softening. The catch-22 is that sealing stone in moist environments may not always be advisable. Ask your stone restoration technician to give specific recommendations for your stone.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

When Professional Carpet Cleaning is a Must

3 Circumstances When Professional Carpet Cleaning Is a Must

You may already know that carpet is the biggest filter in your home, trapping dirt, dust and allergens, and that periodic professional cleaning is the only way to keep your carpets clean, fresh, and healthy. But did you know that there are certain circumstances that warrant an extra visit from your professional carpet cleaner?

Home Improvement and Renovation

Home improvement projects are notoriously messy. Dust, dirt, and particles from renovation can become trapped deep down in your carpet fibers. You may not see these contaminants after you clean up and vacuum, but once this abrasive material makes its way into your carpet, every step on the carpet will cause carpet fibers to weaken and break. Only professional carpet cleaning will effectively remove embedded abrasives. Having your carpets professionally cleaned after a home improvement project will go a long way in preventing premature wear.

Large Social Gatherings

The morning after a party, whether raucous or tame, you’re likely to have crumbs and tracked-in dirt and grime in your carpet. Because of the heavy foot traffic that accompanies large gatherings, not to mention spills, DIY spot cleaning and vacuuming will likely not be good enough to get your carpet back to its former condition. Professional carpet cleaning, including spot and spill treatment, is an efficient and very thorough way to clean up properly. It’s entirely possible to entertain on a regular basis without ruining your carpets, if your carpets are professionally cleaned right away afterwards.

Pet Accidents

Your normal vacuuming, spot cleaning, and regularly scheduled professional carpet cleaning services probably go a long way in preventing normal pet evidence, like odors, embedded hairs, and tracked in dirt. But sometimes pets get sick and have accidents, or perhaps you have a new pet who has not yet mastered the potty routine. If your carpet is subject to pet accidents, scheduling an extra visit with your professional carpet cleaning technician is a must. Pet accidents on carpet are not a big deal, but only if they are taken care of right away.

When the contractor packs away the tools, the decorations are taken down, or your pet has had a bad day, it’s time to schedule professional carpet cleaning services.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

A Natural Stone Stain Remover

Hard surfaces like natural stone, concrete, terrazzo, and certain types of tile, as well as the grout lines in between tile, are porous, which means they will absorb liquids. If such liquids are staining agents, a stain will occur. Stain removal methods will vary, depending on the type of stain. Many stains can be removed using acetone. Here are the details.

About Acetone

Acetone, the main ingredient in nail polish remover, is a stone-safe organic compound. For the purpose of removing stains on natural stone, however, forget your nail polish remover. Some nail polish removers contain other chemicals, and non-acetone nail polish remover has no acetone whatsoever. Acetone for stone stain removal should be available at any hardware or paint store.

About Stain Removal

The key to success in stain removal is cleaning up any spills and treating any resulting stains as soon as you can. Understanding the source of the stain will help in determining the best treatment. Many options are available for treating stains on natural stone from creating your own poultice to using convenient ready-made poultices. Ask us for help if you need it.

IMPORTANT!

Acetone is very dangerous to the skin and nervous system. Wear latex or rubber gloves when handling acetone. For your protection, as well as the protection of others, always read the warning labels, follow directions, and be cautious when working with chemicals. Remember to follow your local health and safety regulations for proper chemical disposal.

Stain Removal Methods

Acetone can be used to remove adhesives, candy (non-chocolate), furniture polish, glue (both water soluble and synthetic), heel marks, ink, ink toner, leather, lipstick, nail polish, paper, shoe polish, soap film, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tar, vomit, wines, wood stain, and many unknown stains.

Stain removal methods will vary, depending on the type of stain. For example, substances with heavy texture may require the excess to be carefully scraped from the surface of the stone with a straight razor, while thinner substances will not require this first step. Clean the area thoroughly with acetone and a clean white cloth. Be sure to blot only. Some stains may require one or more poultice applications. Poultices absorb and wick stains out of stone over a period of time from hours to days, depending on the severity of the stain. For specific instructions, please refer to our Stain Removal Application under Resources on our website menu.

Unknown Stains

If you have no idea what caused your stain, you may still be able to remove the stain. Be sure to test out your stain removal methods in an inconspicuous area before you proceed with your stain removal.

  1. Carefully use a sharp straight razor to scrape excess texture, if needed.
  2. Use a clean white cloth to blot the stain. Do not wipe or rub, as this may cause spread the stain outward. Hopefully you will see the stain beginning to transfer to the white cloth. If not, proceed to step (3). Use clean sections of your white cloth each time, and use a second or third white cloth, if needed. Continue until you see that the stain is no longer transferring from the stone to the cloth. Proceed to step (6).
  3. Use stone soap or a stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaner to thoroughly clean the stained area. Use a clean, white cloth to dry the area. Have a look at your cloth. If you see that some of the stain has transferred to it, proceed to step (7), if not, move on to steop (4).
  4. Use 20% hydrogen peroxide and a clean white cloth to blot (not wipe or rub) the stained area. Have a look at your cloth. If you see that some of the stain has transferred to it, continue working until the stain no longer transfers to the cloth, and then proceed to step (8). If no stain is transferring to your cloth, then proceed to step (5).
  5. Use an iron-removing cleaner and a soft brush to agitate and clean the stained area. Use a clean, white cloth to dry the area. WARNING: This step may cause acid etch damage to your stone. Use caution. If lightening of the stain occurs, proceed to step (9). If you do not see any improvement, proceed to step (10).
  6. Use poultice powder and one of the following solvents: mineral spirits or commercial paint remover, to create a poultice. To be clear, do not mix the solvents. Apply the poultice to the stain. See our poultice How-To video on the Stain Removal App for further poultice instructions. You may need to allow the poultice to dry out, remove it, and reapply it several times. Continue to poultice until you successfully remove the stain. If, after five attempts, the poultice has no effect, proceed to step (7).
  7. Use a poultice powder and an alkaline stone cleaner to create a poultice. Apply the poultice to the stain. You may need to allow the poultice to dry out, remove it, and reapply it several times. Continue to poultice until you successfully remove the stain. If, after five attempts, the poultice has no effect, proceed to step (10).
  8. Use a poultice powder and 20% hydrogen peroxide to create a poultice. Check the ingredients on clay or fuller earth powders. If they contain hydrogen peroxide, do not use them. Apply the poultice to the stain. If you do not see improvement in the stain, try creating a new poultice mixture using 50% hydrogen peroxide instead of 20%. You may need to allow the poultice to dry out, remove it, and reapply it several times. Continue to poultice until you successfully remove the stain. If, after five attempts, the poultice has no effect, proceed to step (10).
  9. Use a poultice powder and an iron-removing chemical to create a poultice. Apply the poultice to the stain. You may need to allow the poultice to dry out, remove it, and reapply it several times. Continue to poultice until you successfully remove the stain. Marble or other calcium-based stones may require honing and polishing to restore the finish. If, after five attempts, the poultice has no effect, proceed to step (10).
  10. Most stains on natural stone can be removed. Some are more difficult than others. Persistence is key. However, some stains do become permanently set. In other words, they become part of the stone. You may need to have your stone replaced. Another option would be to cover the stain with a rug or furniture rearrangement.

Potential Complications

If you are unable to remove the stain, you may actually be dealing with etch damage caused by an acidic substance. Etch removal methods differ from stain removal methods. If you applied a poultice as part of your stain removal process, lingering
discoloration may be due to moisture in the stone, which will disappear once the stone is completely dry. Most stains can be removed, but sometimes stains are permanent. Before investing in a costly replacement, consult with your professional stone restoration contractor.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

Tips for Safely Moving Heavy Furniture on Carpet

Moving heavy furniture can be hard work. Moving, in and of itself, can be stressful enough without injuries, torn or snagged carpet, or damaged furniture due to improper moving methods. To avoid potential problems while moving heavy furniture on carpet, you’ll want to either hire a moving company or take extra precautions. Here are a few tips.

Hire a Reputable Moving Company

The easiest way to avoid injuring yourself or damaging your carpet, furniture, or other surfaces while moving heaving furniture is to leave the job to professionals who are fully equipped to efficiently and effectively get your belongings from point A to point B without incident, including moving furniture from one room to another, if necessary. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) encourages consumers to get recommendations from family and friends, local realtors, and the BBB. They advise consumers to do research to make sure the mover is a locally based, licensed, and insured business. They also recommend getting multiple quotes, making sure your belongings are insured either by the moving company or by your own insurance, making sure that pricing and other considerations are clearly communicated, and reading reviews.

Grab a Few Friends

Another way to move heavy furniture on carpet is to ask a few able-bodied friends if they wouldn’t mind helping out. To avoid conflict and make sure everything goes smoothly, plan ahead. Give your friends plenty of advance warning as to the date and time, the pieces to be moved, and a general idea of what to expect when they arrive. Be considerate of their time by having everything ready in advance, including drinks and snacks. Remind everyone about common sense precautions again injury, such as bending at the knees instead of the waist and pushing rather than pulling.

Moving Furniture on Carpet

To avoid injuries, clear a path and secure pets and small children. Make sure you are properly equipped with the necessary tools, which may include moving vehicles, furniture straps, stair rollers, moving blankets, dolly, slides or ramps, and more. If you are moving shelves, units with drawers, or other furniture used for storage, be sure to empty items to lighten the load. Secure doors and hinged parts using elastic moving bands or stretch wrap. If you must slide the furniture across carpeting, use furniture glides at the base or under the legs. Sliding the furniture directly on carpet could result in friction burns of the carpet, snags, tears, or other damage. If people are moving furniture from outdoor areas to indoor areas, lay some cardboard or protective plastic sheets along the main walkways on carpet to stop ground in dirt and grime.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

Stone & Tile Restoration Helps Sell Homes

If you plan to list your home for sale, it’s a good idea to put professional stone and tile restoration on your to-do list. A simple way to improve buyer appeal and help your home sell quickly for the price you are asking is by having clean, elegant, welcoming floors and surfaces. According to Bankrate.com, the number one turnoff for buyers when they enter a home is a lack of overall cleanliness. Stone and tile can be freshly cleaned, but still look (and smell) dirty. Here’s why:

Odors

Grout is porous, so it can trap all kinds of odors, but especially pet odors, which can be a deal-breaker for many homebuyers. Professional tile and grout cleaning leaves your floors smelling clean and fresh. Grout lines can be color sealed, for a fresh, spot-free, uniform appearance.

Mildew

Eliminating allergens and other pollutants from your bath and shower areas is especially important for potential buyers with allergies. If they walk into the bathroom and see problematic grout lines, they’re likely to turn around and leave. Regular cleaning methods and even professional cleaning services cannot achieve the same level of deep-down clean as professional tile and grout cleaning.

Stains and etches

Natural stone can be perfectly sanitized, yet appear dirty if it is stained or etched. Many homebuyers see stains and etches on natural stone and raise unwarranted red flags about the overall cleanliness of the home. Most stains can be removed. Etches can be honed away and then polished to restored the finish of the stone.

Scratches and dullness

Thousands of tiny scratches and other signs of wear can make the surface of natural stone look dull and dirty. Larger scratches leave the (inaccurate) impression that the stone ought to be replaced. Professional honing and polishing will restore the factory finish of your natural stone.

Floors and surfaces that look brand new create a positive first impression. If you are selling your home, don’t let your stone and tile become a deal-breaker, and don’t replace your stone and tile! Have it professionally restored.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

How to Remove Cigarette Odor

Cigarettes stink. Although indoor smoking is less common now, you may find yourself in a situation where cigarette odor lingers. Whether you have recently purchased a home where someone smoked inside for years or your are a property owner with tenants who smoked inside, getting rid of the stench, resins, and tars can be quite a chore. Here are some tips.

Ventilation and Purification

Open windows and doors if the outdoor air quality is good. Set up fans, creating an intake and exhaust pattern to move air into and out of the indoor spaces. Use a HEPA air filter and have HVAC system ducts professionally cleaned.

Clean Hard Surfaces

Use a good cleaning solution to wipe down walls, ceilings, baseboards, fans, light fixtures, glass, and any other low- or non-porous surfaces that have come into contact with cigarette smoke. (Note: If you are using a vinegar and water solution for cleaning, be sure not to use it on natural stone, as this may cause etch damage. Always use a stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaner on natural stone.)

Clean Soft Surfaces

Wash laundry-safe items according to manufacturer directions. You may need to wash items several times. Have carpets, rugs, upholstery, window treatments, and other interior textiles professionally cleaned. Do-it-yourself machines will not achieve the same results as professional cleaning and may actually leave your space smelling worse.

Go Hardcore

In cases involving decades of heavy indoor smoking, extreme measures may be necessary. Try getting rid of lampshades, pillows, throw rugs, furniture, window treatments, and other porous items. If the odor persists, replace carpets, add a coat of fresh paint on the walls, and rent an ozone generator.

Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about removing cigarette smoke odor or to schedule services.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

What You Should Know About Jerusalem Limestone

What is Jerusalem Limestone?

Sometimes our clients are misinformed by stone fabricators or installers about what to expect from their natural stone. This is especially true of Jerusalem limestone. If you are selecting natural stone and considering Jerusalem limestone or if you already have Jerusalem limestone, this article may be of interest to you.

Appearance

Jerusalem limestone, including Jerusalem Gold, Jerusalem Gray Gold, Jerusalem Pearl, and more, is quarried in Israel. It comes in a variety of rustic colors and finishes.

Durability

Jerusalem limestone is soft, which means it can become scratched. It is porous, so if it is not properly sealed, spills can quickly turn into stains. As a calcite-based stone, Jerusalem limestone is susceptible to etching.

Problematic Applications

Varieties of Jerusalem limestone that contain a lot of fossils may be susceptible to spalling (surface flaking or peeling). Jerusalem limestone is not ideal for very high traffic areas since its density can be inconsistent.

Professional Care

Professional attention can make a big difference in the appearance of Jerusalem limestone. It should be periodically deep cleaned and sealed. Most stains can be removed, and if surface damage occurs, it can be honed and polished away by with professional stone restoration.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.

Help! Carpet Turned Crunchy After Cleaning

Homeowners love carpeting because of its soft, comfy texture. Sometimes we receive phone calls from unhappy homeowners complaining about crunchy, stiff carpet after having their carpets cleaned by a less-than-reputable carpet cleaning company or after renting do-it-yourself carpet cleaning machines. There are several reasons why carpet fibers harden and clump. Here are the details.

Improper Cleaning Methods

When a carpet is cleaned too quickly, water, soap, and dirt is extracted from surface only. As the carpet dries, the remaining residue wicks up through the carpet fibers and the moisture dissipates, leaving behind dirt and soap particles.

Improper Cleaning Products

Carpet cleaning technicians encounter a variety of stains and cleaning problems on a variety of carpet types. Selecting the appropriate cleaning products with the appropriate pH levels is important. When an improper cleaning product is used, carpet fibers may turn stiff. Cleaners with unnecessarily high pH levels can be harsh on carpet.

Improper Product Amount

The water-to-cleaning-product ratio should be accurate for optimal results, that is, fresh, clean, soft carpeting. If carpet feels crunchy, it could be because too much cleaning product or not enough water was used.

Carpets Not Suitable For Water-Based Products

There are many different types of carpeting, and some are more water-tolerant than others. For example, cotton and synthetic carpeting are water tolerant, and wool can tolerate water in limited amounts, but “natural” (paper) fibers are not water tolerant at all.

Water-intolerant carpets that have been cleaned with water-based products may soften and fluff if raked with a carpet groomer and vacuumed.

Hard Water

If your tap water contains a lot of minerals and this water is used to clean your carpets, it can result in stiff, crunchy carpet. Vacuum often to dislodge the minerals.

How To Ensure Fresh, Clean, Soft Carpeting After Cleaning

Crunchy carpet is a dirt magnet. If your carpet is stiff, it is important to resolve the situation before abrasive substances stick to the residue, and after exposure to foot traffic and regular use cause permanent damage to the carpet fibers. If you are insistent on resolving the situation yourself, we recommend misting the carpet with distilled water and a neutralizing rinse (you can purchase a pH neutral rinse or use 1 cup vinegar per 1 gallon of water), immediately followed by extraction. The cheap route may not produce the desired result, though, and could make matters worse. The only sure way to resolve the situation is to hire a professional.

A reputable carpet cleaning company will have highly trained technicians who know how to select appropriate cleaners to resolve different types of carpet cleaning problems. They use the proper ratio of water to cleaning solution, and thoroughly rinse and extract moisture from deep within the carpet fibers. Although dry time is always necessary with carpet cleaning, it should not take long, and once the carpet is dry, appropriately cleaned carpet will feel soft, fresh, and clean.

This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of SurpHaces PRO Partners.