Etch marks and pitts appearing on new Marfil countertops

[goacom]

Hi folks,
I had a couple of countertops installed with this kind of stone. Unfortunately, I believe I got ripped by my contractor. I had initially wanted granite, but he said that he could not get the color I wanted and recommended this instead. In the middle of the work, I had to leave the country on business and was not present when he installed the countertops. BAD MOVE! Unfortunately, the stuff that was installed was extremely low grade and it was even more unfortunate that I had paid him in advance before I left.

When I returned home after about a week, I noticed that my "brand new" counters had all kinds of etch spots that feel rough relative to the adjacent shiny/smooth areas. Even more troubling is that I have noticed that the counters are pitting.

I am trying to figure out what can be done to fix my countertops. I am considering having a contractor come and do this work (not the same guy obviously!), but I am trying to arm myself with the necessary knowledge on what needs to be done before I talk to them. Would the counters need to be ground/polished? What about sealers/impregnators and the glazing? And finally, what can be done to fill the existing pitts. Any information would be highly appreciated.

Thanks!

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[Stonehenge]

Hi Goacom,

There is a large difference between Crema Marfil and Granite. Crema Marfil is a high density limestone that is vulnerable to scratch and chemical damage.
For an active kitchen a highly polished CM is a poor choice, that is to say if one expected a low maintenance high luster natural stone product.
Granted you can hire a restoration pro, but you will be back to square one in short order. At this point in time you have three options:

1) Be prepared to have a local stone restoration contractor on speed dial, that way you can have them repolish your stone once a month. = $$$$

2) Knock down the luster on your kitchen tops (honed finish) which is less likely to show future damage, coupled with an impregnator this may be your best bet

3) Replace your Crema Marfil with a "Granite" which is much more resistant towards scratch and chemical damage.

Good Luck,


Michael

[goacom]

Hi Michael,
Thank you very much for your informative post. Actually, the counters are in my bathrooms.
Regards.

[Stonehenge]

Hi G,

Thank you, please ask away we are here to help.

Michael :goodluck:

[goacom]

Hi Michael,
Thanks for your reply.
I am interested in pursuing option #1 since the bathroom environment is not as harsh as in the kitchen. I am trying to figure out what would be involved in the restoration process? I am trying to educate myself before I approach one of these guys and I want to make sure they dont screw up with the wrong solvents etc. The things I am trying to figure out are: (1) how will they get rid of the etch stains and (2) What can they do to fill the pits and seal the surface.
Thanks.

ps. Have a wonderful New Year!!

[doitright]

Hi G, Welcome! :)

How about letting loose of a first name here? :shades:

Depending on the severity of the etch, either a marble polishing powder can be used, or they will need to start with an abrasive grit (sandpaper or diamond), and work their way up to a full polish.

The pits will usually be filled with a matching polyester or acrylic epoxy.

Crema Marfil does not need to be sealed, as it will barely absorb the sealer, if any at all. If you choose to hone the surface, that's another story.