International Stoneworks, Houston's premier natural stone restoration and maintenance business, wants Gulf Coast homeowners to be prepared for the start of hurricane season.
Since Hurricanes Ike and Rita, International Stoneworks has and still is repairing the damages done to natural stone surfaces and floors due to these storms, according to Rawi Tabbah, International Stoneworks president. This hurricane season (June 1st to December 1st, 2010), homeowners can take a few precautions in order to save money on future home repairs.
Most natural stones are porous. Heavy rain and wind can cause water and moisture to penetrate the stone from not only the surface but also from the sides (through the grout) and from the substrate (below the stone).
In order to protect the stone from the surface and sides, International Stoneworks always recommends that the surface of the stone and grout be properly sealed with a water repellent penetrating sealer. Some sealers last longer than others but a light sealing every two years is highly recommended.
To protect the stone surface and grout, lay two layers of contractor's paper or felt paper. Plastic is not recommended because it inhibits the moisture evaporation. When using tape to hold the paper onto the stone, first use Blue painter's tape then waterproof that tape by covering it with a layer of Duct tape. The Blue tape will not leave a sticky residue on the stone.
Protecting the substrate is more difficult and may not totally prevent moisture from migrating inside and penetrating the stone. However, a little prevention may prove very useful: make sure that windows, doors, etc. around the stone (inside and outside) are properly caulked.
As soon as possible following the storm, remove the paper, damp mop the floor with a neutral cleaner and let the surface dry. Use fans and dehumidifiers if necessary. Surface moisture sometimes evaporates in time and the stone does not need restoration or replacement. If there is some discoloration and it does not disappear, an on-site evaluation by International Stoneworks (or another a certified restoration specialist) may be needed.
"A large part of stone care is learning how to maintain your natural stone. Taking precautions to protect your stone floors and surfaces during the hurricane season can end up saving you a lot of money. Even though Hurricane Ike was in 2008, I recently went to a home that still had extensive damage done to its marble floors. Hopefully these simple steps will help homeowners take a proactive role in preserving their home during the coming months," said Tabbah.
Tape and paper products can be found at your local hardware store.
Orders for sealers and neutral cleaners can be placed online at www.braxton-bragg.com or by calling 800-575-4401 for recommendations.
International Stoneworks, established in 1982 by Rawi Tabbah, is Houston's premier natural stone restoration and maintenance business. Many prominent Texas buildings and homes have used International Stoneworks to clean, restore, protect, and maintain natural stones such as marble, travertine, granite (polished or flamed), slate, limestone (honed or polished), onyx, flagstone, terrazzo and other natural stones.
International Stoneworks is an active member of the Marble Institute of America (MIA) and has done work for commercial and residential customers in Houston and its surrounding cities, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin for 28 years. Not only does it perform stone restoration services, it also sells safe and efficient products in order for clients to maintain their stone investments.
For more information on International Stoneworks, please visit them online at www.intlstoneworks.com or call 713-956-8291.
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