Dull Rings On Marble Table
by Tara
(Florida)
Marble Maintenance: Etching
QUESTION:
I have a marble coffee table. The table looks like it is comprised of slats of marble slate, very heavy table.
Over time I have had some inconsiderate room mates that left a couple of drinks on the table without coasters, leaving dull rings. Not to mention a couple of nice scratches which I am not sure where they came from...
What would be the best way to clean the table, and buff so the table doesn't have the dull appearance, and help eliminate the scratches? The table is roughly 4 to 5 years old. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
ANSWER:
Tara, thanks for the photo... that really helps.
Well, don't kick the roommates out yet... I'll tell you how can put them to work removing the rings, scratches and restoring the shine!
The rings are a common issue with marble. It's called
"etching" and occurs when acids food and drinks contact the marble.
The acids corrode the marble surface destroying the shine and leaving dull spots and rings.
Luckily etching can be repaired using
SCP- Marble Polishing Paste, which is a specialized marble polish made just for this purpose.
It will also remove/repair light scratches. Very easy to use, so won't be much of a punishment for the roommates, but you won't have to give them dirty looks anymore!
Now, if the etching and scratches are severe (meaning very rough and/or deep) you may have to call a marble restoration professional to resurface the marble.
But in most cases the paste will completely remove the rings and restore the color and shine. Use it over the whole table to reinvigorate the shine and get the most even finish.
Good Luck,
Ryan