AboutTad Dixon Expertise Questions concerning Natural Stone fabrication and Installation including: Marble, Granite, Limestone, Slate, Soapstone, Bluestone, and Travertine in Slabs and Tiles.
Experience I have worked in the Dimensional Stone Industry since 1978.
California Contractors License 1989
Former owner of Prestige Marble & Tile (So. Calif.)
Current owner of Elegance in Stone (Missoula, MT)
Current co-owner of Montana Stone Gallery,LLC Missoula, MT
Organizations Missoula Building Industry Association
Montana Building Industry Association
Flathead Building Association
National Association of Home Builders
Former member of the Marble Institute of America
Former member of the National Tile Contractors Association
Education/Credentials Journeyman Marble Mason, Bricklayers and Allied Craftsman Union #2
California Contractors License 1989-1997
Montana Contractors Registration #42969
Importer of natural stone slabs. Co-owner of Montana Stone Gallery a regional Importing and Distribution company located in Missoula, MT
Question We have numerous small spots (definitely not water - acid rain?) occurring on our bluestone terrace, installed 6 years ago at our home outside of Boston. These spots are new this spring. The terrace has never been sealed. How do we remove these spots, and should we seal it afterwards? Should we remove moss in between the stones? We like its appearance, when it's green, but can it do any damage to the terrace?
Answer If the spots are white and chalky, it is probably efflorescence, which is salt crystals migrating up through the stone from the mortar bed. This ususally occurs in damp conditions. You can use HMK-R55 Intensive Cleaner from www.stonecareonline.org This should not damage the moss. Your stone should be sealed after you do the cleaning, but the stone needs to be completely dry in order to use the sealer. I suggest HMK S34 Silicone Impregnating Sealer.
