Expert: Dan Griffin - 6/22/2011

Question
I have been collecting beautiful samples of an amazing crema marfil ashlar patter with chisled edges for 2 years during the construction of our new ~10000 square foot home. As it lay out on our floor I fall in love with it every time I look at the beautiful veining and detail. I was very excited to order ~3000 sq ft...until I got it and opened up the pallets. SO many imperfections and loaded with filler. I didnt mind the use of filler as I understand in some cases it is a must, however this stuff is load and looks like yellow paint or mustard has been dropped and dried. Distresses was the look I was going for, but not filthy. Also the 8x16 look like garbage from a reminents pile. I am so sick to my stomach as everyone keeps saying it gives it "character". Am I being totally over reactive? The filler, and variations have me beyond frustrated. Is this what I should have expected or have I been taken to the cleaners?
Signed..Sad in South Florida
SusanD

Answer
Susan, are you working with a tile contractor?  Here is a quotation from a marble supply site:
* These stones may be characterized by dry seams, pits, and fossils. In polished and honed stones, these areas are often filled at the factory. In rustic or tumbled stones, as well as with some honed limestone, these are often filled with grout during installation. Whether filled at the factory or during installation, the fill can work its way out of the voids. In these instances, it may be necessary to refill these voids as part of a normal maintenance routine.

A tile contractor should have advised you and I would also hope that you had gone to look at a large installation of this type marble installed somewhere.  I am not a stone mason, but these color and quality things come up in many natural materials.  Most contractors will try to advise a client if they see something that may head this direction.  I don't know how or where you did get the tile, but surely you can refuse to accept.  There may be some restocking charge involved, but if you know you don't like the product, it would be foolish to install - you will hate it every day.  Another alternative would be to find a small space where you could install some of the tile to see what it truly looks like once grouted.  Many products look a bit rough in their shipping condition, but, again, if you know that you will not be pleased once done don't install it.  I would think that your supplier or contractor would be much happier to show you what the material can look like rather than restock.