Unfortunately, if acids come into contact with a marble surface (or other calcite-based stones such as travertine and limestone), the acid will quickly react with the marble creating light, dull marks on the surface called etching. Many times the etching is very light and can only be seen at an angle, or it can be quite white in appearance and rough to the touch. The light etching can be removed by using our MB-11 polishing powder if:
the stone is polished
the stone is lighter in color (MB-11 will not work on black, dark brown, or green marbles)
if the etch marks are smooth to the touch
if the etch marks are minor (do not cover a large area of the stone)
MB-11 Marble Polishing Powder works as an abrasive that actually polishes the marble’s surface. It removes the etch mark by re-polishing the stone’s surface, and in about 15 or 20 seconds, this well-designed marble polish will have the stone look brand new. If the etching covers a large area, we recommend calling a Stone Restoration Professional to restore the stone. The Stone Pro will be necessary as he or she will need to use certain stone restoration tools such as a hand machine, diamond abrasives, and certain polishing powders to refinish the surface of the stone. If you are not sure what to do about the etching on your stone, feel free to email us a picture at mail@mbstonecare.com. We will be happy to take a look and offer the best solution for you.
MB-11 Marble Polishing Powder is a professional-grade product, yet user-friendly that enables you to polish marble like the Pros! Ideal to spot repair those strange “water stains” (acid etching, that is) from polished stone floors. No special tool is necessary.
It is important to remember that an etch mark is always lighter than the stone, whereas a stain is always darker than the stone. Remember, an etch is a chemical reaction with the stone and a stain is caused by a substance (such as oil and grease) being absorbed into the stone. Stains can easily be removed by using a poultice. A poultice is used to draw the stain out of the stone and is very easy to use. See Stain Reaper Poultice Paste for stains.