REPOLISHING MARBLE


THIS PROCEDURE APPLIES TO HIGHLY POLISHED STONE AND IS NOT SUITABLE
FOR USE ON HONED MARBLE SURFACES.


PART 1---GENERAL

1.01 SUMMARY

    A.   This procedure includes guidance on repolishing marble
         using polishing powder and water.

    B.   Determine original finish of marble before proceeding
         with any repolishing procedure.

    C.   Repolishing reflective surfaces may be necessary after
         treatment if the surface gloss has been altered. This is
         especially true if the surface has been etched.

    D.   Perform as needed to repolish specular stone surfaces,
         particularly following etching (See 04455-15-R "Removing
         Etch Marks in Marble").

    E.   For general information on the characteristics, uses and
         problems associated with marble, see 04455-01-S.


PART 2---PRODUCTS

2.01 MANUFACTURERS

    A.   Eastern Marble & Granite Supply Company
          www.easternmarble.com
          
2.02 MATERIALS

    A.   Mineral water

    B.   Marble polishing powder:  A finely ground buffing powder
         manufactured specifically for restorative type polishing
         of polished marble surfaces, such as "#52-B Polishing Powder"
         (Eastern Marble) or approved equal.
         Polishing agents may also be available at a hardware
         store or local stone dealer. Or a prepared commercial polishing liquid or cream

        such as "Italian Craftsman" (Eastern Marble), or an approved equal. 

    C.   Clean, lint-free cloths

2.03 EQUIPMENT

    A.   Buffing pads for Polished Finish:  Fiber brush pads
         manufactured specifically for restorative type polishing
         of polished marble surfaces

    B.   Hand-held buffing machine


PART 3---EXECUTION

3.01 ERECTION, INSTALLATION, APPLICATION

NOTE:  Do a test of the proposed polishing treatment in an appropriate, not highly visible area, to 

            determine appropriate approach to repolishing the marble.

    A.   Wet the surface with mineral water.

    B.   Sprinkle the marble polishing powder over the surface.

    C.   Dampen cloths with mineral water (if they are to be
         used).

    D.   Rub the powder onto the stone with the damp cloths or by
         using a hand-held buffing machine in long, even strokes; keeping

        clear of adjoining vertical surfaces.

         NOTE:  Apply polishing powder to marble surfaces to
         comply with manufacturer's recommendations for hand
         application methods, unless otherwise indicated.  Do not
         allow to remain on surface for periods longer than that
         indicated or recommended by manufacturer.

    E.   Buff until a uniform polish, consistent with the historic design intent, is  achieved. For                  most historic floors, the original finish is a honed (non-reflective) finish.  Walls and vertical           surface were often given a soft satin polish.  Highly polished surfaces became more           popular after World War II.

    F.   Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

                        -OR-

    G.   For prepared liquid or cream polishing agents, follow the manufacturer's recommended           directions. 

                         END OF SECTION