Home Garden

How to Fix Stripped Marble Finish

In home applications, marble is finished with a sealant coat. This sealer adds shine and a layer of protection to the marble. Without it, the marble's surface is susceptible to etching by acidic liquids, wear and dulling of its surface. Marble areas subject to high foot traffic, like entry way floors, may need to be resealed yearly to prevent damage from wear and tear, along with spills or excess moisture.

Things You'll Need

  • Marble cleaner
  • Soft scrub brush
  • Marble sealer
  • Sponge
  • Mop
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Instructions

    • 1

      Move all of your tools and supplies into the room for at least 24 hours before you're ready to work. This will acclimate them to the room's temperature and facilitate easy application.

    • 2

      Clean the marble with the solution recommended by its retailer or use a pH neutral cleaner. Dilute the cleaner with water according to the manufacturer's directions. Clean the marble with a soft scrub brush. Long-handle brushes are better suited for marble floors. Allow the marble area to dry for at least eight hours.

    • 3

      Pour the sealant into a clean bucket. Any debris or residue in the bucket will contaminate the sealer coat.

    • 4

      Dip a mop or sponge into the sealer. Wring it out until it stops dripping. Apply the sealer to the marble in a thin, even layer. Work the sealer in figure-eight or circular motions to spread the sealer evenly and avoid puddling. Work from one end of the marble surface to the other. When applying the sealer to the floor, work toward the entrance.

    • 5

      Allow the sealant to dry for the manufacturer-recommended amount of time. Avoid traffic or use of the surface for that period of time. After the marble has dried, apply a second coat of sealant if desired or if instructed by the manufacturer.