Marble Plus Floor Care

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Categories: Exterior Hardscapes

Restoration of Outdoor Entrance and Stairs in Palm Beach

Project Overview

This outdoor entrance and staircase, originally constructed in 1962, features Jerusalem stone and marble. Over the decades, exposure to Florida’s humid, coastal climate caused extensive wear, leading to grout deterioration, spalling, and discoloration. These environmental effects resulted in oxidation stains and a general loss of the stone’s original luster. This restoration project aimed to address these challenges by replacing failing grout, treating oxidation stains, and resurfacing the stone to restore its natural beauty.

Initial Condition and Challenges

The outdoor entrance and stairs had suffered several issues over the years:

  • Grout Deterioration: The grout joints had significantly worn down, allowing water to seep into the underlying stone. This moisture exposure, coupled with the natural iron content in the marble, led to oxidation, resulting in reddish-brown stains.
  • Spalling and Flaking of Jerusalem Stone: The Jerusalem stone had developed spalling and flaking areas, creating pits and uneven surfaces.
  • Loss of Shine and Surface Integrity: The marble and Jerusalem stone had lost their original high-luster finish, appearing dull and uneven, and required resurfacing.

Given these challenges, the restoration process needed to not only address the cosmetic issues but also fortify the stone and grout to withstand future environmental impacts.

Restoration Process

Step 1: Stain Treatment and Surface Cleaning

The restoration began by treating the reddish-brown oxidation stains caused by water intrusion. A specialized treatment was applied to lift the stains from the marble, restoring the natural, clean color of the stone.

The Jerusalem stone was also meticulously cleaned to remove any embedded dirt and contaminants. This cleaning stage ensured a solid base for further restoration steps.

Step 2: Grout Removal and Replacement

All existing grout joints and seams were removed to prevent further water penetration. A high-performance, water-resistant grout was then applied to all joints. This new grout not only prevents moisture intrusion but also provides a visually seamless finish, enhancing the entrance’s overall appearance.

Step 3: Repairing Spalling and Filling Holes

The spalled areas and pits in the Jerusalem stone were carefully cleaned and filled with a stone-compatible filler to create a smooth, even surface. Once filled, the stone was diamond-honed, which helped integrate the filled areas seamlessly with the surrounding stone.

Step 4: Diamond Honing and Polishing

To restore the high-luster finish, the entire entrance and staircase were diamond-honed and polished. This multi-step process involved progressively finer abrasives to achieve a uniform, reflective surface that enhances the natural beauty of the marble and Jerusalem stone. The diamond honing also minimized the stone’s porosity, further protecting it from moisture and environmental wear.

Results and Benefits

The completed restoration left the entrance and stairs looking rejuvenated and structurally fortified. Key outcomes of the project included:

  • Restored Aesthetics: The oxidation stains and spalling were successfully treated, restoring the entrance’s clean, polished appearance and highlighting the natural color and texture of the stone.
  • Improved Durability: By replacing the deteriorated grout with a water-resistant alternative and treating the stone’s surface, the entrance is now better equipped to withstand Florida’s coastal climate.
  • Enhanced Shine and Smoothness: The diamond-honed and polished finish gives the stone a high-luster appearance, adding a touch of elegance to the entrance while making the surface easier to clean and maintain.
  • Long-Term Protection: The comprehensive restoration has not only improved the aesthetic appeal of the entrance but has also extended its lifespan by reinforcing the stone against environmental elements.

Conclusion

This restoration project showcases the transformative power of targeted stone care and maintenance. Through expert treatment, resurfacing, and grout replacement, the outdoor entrance and stairs were returned to their former grandeur. The restored entrance now stands as a beautiful, durable welcome to the property, combining the enduring elegance of marble and Jerusalem stone with the resilience required for an oceanfront environment.

Do you have outdoor stone hardscapes that are in need of cleaning and restoration? We can help. CONTACT US today to discuss your needs.

Restorative Maintenance of a Granite and Limestone Garage Floor in Palm Beach, FL

Project Overview

This garage floor in Palm Beach, located just steps from the ocean, was originally crafted from a unique combination of granite and limestone. While these stones are durable, the oceanfront environment brought specific challenges. Over time, exposure to salty air, moisture, and sand took its toll on the floor, causing discoloration, staining, and surface deterioration. To restore and protect this beautiful but weathered garage floor, an extensive cleaning and sealing process was implemented.

Initial Condition and Challenges

Due to the porous nature of natural stone and grout, this garage floor had absorbed moisture and minerals from years of exposure to the seaside elements. The high humidity, frequent ocean spray, and salt air accelerated wear on the surface, resulting in:

  • Surface Discoloration from salt and environmental deposits
  • Dullness and Unevenness in the stone’s natural sheen
  • Grout Degradation, allowing moisture to seep further into the stone
  • Surface Integrity Issues due to the stone’s exposure to harsh coastal conditions

Given these challenges, the goal of the restoration was to rejuvenate the appearance of the granite and limestone while providing a lasting layer of protection against further damage.

Restoration Process

Step 1: Deep Cleaning

The restoration began with a thorough cleaning to remove surface contaminants and residues. Using specialized floor-cleaning equipment, the team meticulously lifted embedded dirt, salt, and grime from the stone’s surface, revealing the stone’s natural color and patterning beneath the years of buildup.

Step 2: Surface Preparation

Once cleaned, the floor was prepped for sealing. Any lingering residues from prior treatments were stripped away, and the stone was left in a neutral state, allowing for maximum absorption of the new impregnating sealer.

Step 3: Application of Impregnating Sealer

A premium impregnating sealer formulated specifically for natural stone was applied across the entire surface. This sealer penetrates deep into the stone’s pores, forming an invisible barrier that shields the granite and limestone from moisture, salt, and staining agents. The choice of sealer was critical given the location, as it ensures both water resistance and breathability, allowing the stone to remain dry and maintain its natural appearance without trapping moisture.

Results and Benefits

After the restoration, the garage floor looked rejuvenated, with a more vibrant color and a polished, smooth surface. The restoration process brought several long-lasting benefits to this oceanfront garage:

  • Enhanced Appearance: The stone’s natural beauty was restored, showing a refreshed, even finish across both the granite and limestone.
  • Improved Durability: The new sealer provides a resilient barrier against moisture and salt, significantly slowing down future wear and tear.
  • Easy Maintenance: With the protective sealer in place, the garage floor will now be more resistant to dirt and stains, making routine cleaning simpler.
  • Long-Term Protection: The impregnating sealer ensures that the stone will remain shielded from the harsh coastal environment for years to come.

Conclusion

This restoration project demonstrates how, even in demanding environments like Palm Beach’s oceanfront, natural stone surfaces can be successfully maintained and protected. By combining professional-grade cleaning, preparation, and sealing, the granite and limestone garage floor now boasts a renewed look and enhanced durability, standing up beautifully to the challenges of its coastal location.

Through this comprehensive restoration process, the floor is once again a striking feature of the property, combining elegance with resilience in an environment where each is equally important.

Are you in the Palm Beach area and have stone floors or other surfaces that are in need of repair, restoration, or protection? We can help. CONTACT US today.

Outside Steps Restored

Stone Stairs were dull and dirty looking

These exterior stone steps were not only is exposed to the elements, 24/7, but they saw a lot of traffic and use. Signs of wear, dirt and grime, and a dull appearance made the stairs unsightly.

Cleaning and REfinishing Makes a Big difference

Our deep cleaning process flushed out embedded dirt and contaminants. We used a professional cleaning solution to clear away any residue that could result in future mold or mildew with moist conditions. Our honing and polishing process restored the factory finish and gave these steps a beautiful, welcoming appearance. We also sealed the stone to inhibit staining.

Our clients loved the brand new look we gave their steps. To learn more, visit our Limestone page.

Is your exterior stone dingy? Our professional deep cleaning, refinishing, and sealing services can make a dramatic difference. Call (561) 641-4505 for a free estimate.

Large Steps Outside Cleaned

Exterior Stone in Poor Condition

Exterior stone is exposed to the elements, 24/7. Sometimes a full restoration is needed, and other times a deep cleaning and sealing is needed. In this case, we deep cleaned and sealed.

Restoring the Like-New Appearance

Our deep cleaning process flushed out embedded dirt and contaminants. We used a professional cleaning solution to clear away any residue that could result in future mold or mildew with moist conditions. We also sealed the stone to inhibit staining.

The homeowners loved how fresh and clean their stairs looked. To learn more, visit our Limestone page.

Is your exterior stone dingy? Our professional deep cleaning and sealing services can make a dramatic difference. Call (561) 641-4505 for a free estimate.