To maintain proper pipe temperatures and ensure quality freeze protection, rely on the proven performance of EasyHeat™ pipe tracing products. With a complete range of constant wattage and self-regulating heating cables that provide 3 to 20 Watts per foot of heat @ +50 °F (+10 °C) ambient temperature, we provide dependable pipe tracing solutions for any indoor or outdoor application.

Limescale deposits are a big problem in many parts of the UK where hard water is common. To remove it you need to use a strong acidic cleaner however what to do if you have limescale deposits on Limestone? As many may already know, Limestone is an expensive, high-quality stone that like a lot of natural stone is acid sensitive and can be damaged with the application of acid-based products. You can use acids on Limestone however if your careful and I demonstrated this recently at a property in this village of Everdon near Daventry in Northamptonshire. My customer had a fantastic black Limestone tiled shower cubicle that had been absolutely ruined by white limescale staining and it had reached the point where the situation simply couldn’t be resolved with standard cleaning products. As the staining was so severe, I opted to use Tile Doctor Acid Gel to clean the tiles. This is a blend of phosphoric and hydrochloric acids in gel form and is the best product for cleaning vertical services, since water based products just run off and don’t have time to work on the staining. Working in small areas, I carefully scrubbed the product into the stone and then rinsed it off with plain water. This process was repeated across the whole cubicle, reducing the stains significantly in the process. Next, I used a handheld polishing machine fitted with 6” diamond encrusted burnishing pads, along with some water for lubrication, to polish and deep clean the stone, removing any stubborn stains remaining on the tiles. I left the cubicle to dry completely overnight. Upon my return the next day, I proceeded to seal the tiles using two coats of Tile Doctor Colour Grow sealer. This sealer is impregnating, meaning it fils the pores of stone to protect against ingrained dirt and staining. As well as providing stone protection, Colour Grow also enhances the natural colour in the stone – in this case, the deep black shades in the Limestone. Having finished the job, I gave the very happy customer some advice on keeping limescale and other staining at bay in future. I explained that proper maintenance can be conducted by simply rinsing the tiles with clean water after each use of the shower, and by using Tile Doctor Aqua-Pro tile aftercare cleaner at least once a week. Phil Vissian Northamptonshire Tile Doctor

A loft kitchen that displays an open and airy feel with architecturally designated comfortable spaces. Through an application of proper scale and balance, dropped ceiling and a clever use of paint create a separation of areas.

A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc (847) 827-1605 | A+ BBB Rating & Angie's List Award Company. We give FREE Estimates, always! For installations with new slate, we prefer to install only the highest quality time-tested slates. The combination of high quality slate, expert flashing design and installation, correct soldering, necessary underlayments for the conditions, and proper slate laying and fastening produces an aesthetic, long lasting roof that should have a serviceable life of 100+ years easily. Cutting corners on any one of these factors can shorten the life span of a slate roof from 100+ years to literally just a few years or less. A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. provides high quality roofing slate material to the United States. Founded in 2003, based upon twelve years of experience in the roofing slate industry, we pride ourselves on detailed knowledge of our products and their application. We focus exclusively on roofing slate together with the needs of home owners and contractors installing it. We have well-established and long-term relationships with many of the best slate producers all over the world. When it comes to any slate roofing project, A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. delivers unparalleled service and expertise. We look forward to working with you on your next project. We offer the following roofing services: • Roof Tear Offs • Roof Repair • Tile Roofs • Shingle Roofs • Flat Roofs • Slate Roofs • Gutters|Downspouts • Gravel Roofs • Energy Saving Roofs • Fascia Board Replacements • Torch-Ons • Roof Coatings • Plywood Installations • Hot Mopping • Solar Fans|Skylights • Balconies and Decks • Wood|Composite Shake Roofs • Attic Ventilation • Dry Rot Repairs • Spanish|Mission Tile Specialist • Inspections|Certifications • Gutter|Downspout Cleaning • Built-Up Roof Systems • Preventive Maintenance Please browse our website to find out what you need to know about our company, our services and our reputation. We’re sure you’ll agree…you can depend on A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. to build or repair your roof to last! We want you to be completely satisfied with your new roof. That’s why we spend so much time with you before we even set foot on a ladder. We have the quality and experience you can trust. We are licensed Illinois Roofing Contractors, bonded, and insured. Call us today at (847) 827-1605 for a free estimate!

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

Door painting completed with careful preparation and precise application to achieve a smooth, even finish. Surfaces were properly cleaned, sanded, and coated to ensure strong adhesion and long-lasting results. The updated paint enhances the overall appearance, adding a fresh, polished look while improving durability and protection.

Complimenting the beautiful Colorado fall colors, this Montana Timber Products home features prefinished ranchwood™ Tackroom, Circle Sawn texture as a vertical installation. - The beautiful ranchwood Tackroom color, along with the vertical installation and stone work, combine for a painter's pleasure with the fall birch colors. - Our flagship product, ranchwood™ is Montana Timber Products' chemical free, kiln dried, alternative milled rough stock wood. As an ideal reclaimed lumber alternative, the aesthetically pleasing rustic barn wood ranchwood™ is the result of an environmentally safe production process. Offering uncompromising natural, rustic beauty, ranchwood™ is typically less expensive than antique reclaimed barnwood. - Combined textures solidify into a beautiful rustic brew. - A custom millwork shop, Montana Timber Products offers many options to the customer's delight. Circle Sawn and Wire Brushed are Montana Timber Products' common cedar siding texturizing options. The Circle Sawn texture commonly seen on rustic reclaimed barn wood is created from the large circular saw blades used in more traditional milling practices. The Wire Brushed option adds physical and aesthetic depth to the wood grain. In addition to the aesthetic beauty added from the texturing process, greater surface area is created, which allows the Seal-Once, 100% NO VOC waterproofer to more effectively penetrate the wood. Guarneteed for ten years, Seal-Once prevents water ingress and is safe for exterior and interior use, children and pets. - Sophistication is no stranger to rustic application if done properly, as seen here with distinct lines and harmonious collaboration of wood and stone. - If the environment is important to you, Montana Timber Products natural wood siding, trim, flooring, interior accents, timbers, beams -- all of our wood products -- do not use degenerative chemicals as some other companies do to achieve desired effects. Reclaimed wood, barn wood alternatives, and faux vintage wood are popular building materials further exemplified by Montana Timber Products environmentally friendly manufacturing technique.

This Black and White Marble tiled hallway floor at a Grade II listed property in the village of Tattenhall has quite a history. The building was constructed in 1865 and at one time it has been the home to the high sheriff of Cheshire, and the family home of Edith Wignall the daughter of Sir Henry Tate the founder of the sugar company Tate and Lyle. In more recent years the property had been used as a council building and even a nursing home for the elderly. After a long history of decline it has now been restored to a lavish family mansion however the marble floor had suffered over the years and still need attention. The current owner had been in touch as they wanted it restoring and basically brought back to life. As it turns out I had already planned to go to Tattenhall the following week to work on another listed building which was formerly the village bank. After discussing the Marble floor over the phone, I agreed a date and time to pop over from the bank and inspect the floor in detail. I can provide a rough quote from photographs, which has been especially useful recently, but it’s far better for all concerned if I’m able to properly survey the floor first. The Marble floor consisted of Black and White Mable tiles laid in a diamond pattern, it wasn’t a very large area perhaps 9 square metres in total. The tiles were well worn as described but also stained and scratched. I would see they would need a deep burnish and polish to bring them back to life and then protected with a fresh sealer. Following on from that visit I was able to provide an accurate quote which was accepted, and a date agreed for my return. The first job was to protect the surrounding heavy wooden panelling with masking film. The floor was very heavily stained yellow with deep scratches, to remove these I would have to grind the marble back until a clean fresh tile was left. To start I used a 200-grit coarse pad fitted to a weighted buffing machine, the abrasive action of the pad was lubricated with water. After inspection I found that the staining and scratches were still there, so I needed to use stronger pads, so I worked my way through a set of very coarse milling pads starting at a 50, 100 and finishing with a 200-grit pad. Again, water was used to lubricate, and the resultant slurry was removed by a powerful wet vacuum and washed down between each pad. The milling pads had the desired effect, and I was then able to bring back the polished appearance of the Marble surface using a set of finer burnishing pads with the same process. The 400 and 800-grit pads helped to clean and remove the fine scratches left by the milling pads and then the next 1500-grit pad started to build the shine back on the marble tile. After finishing with 1500-grit pad I washed the Marble with Tile Doctor Stone Soap and vacuumed up the residue with the wet vacuum. I left an industrial blower in place overnight to dry out the floor ready for the next morning when it would be sealed. The next morning, I used the last of the four burnishing pads which is a very fine 3000-grit to polish the floor further. This last pad is applied dry with just a spray of water to create a high gloss finish. When I was happy, I sealed the floor with two coats of Tile Doctor Colour Grow which is an impregnating sealer that soaks into the fine pores of the Marble to protect it from within. This product also improves colour and after application it was left to soak into the tile for five minutes before polishing off and then leaving it to dry. The last step was to I buff the floor with a white pad. The finish was impressive, and the family were very happy with the work we had carried out. For aftercare I recommended they use Stone Soap as its designed for the regular cleaning of sealed and polished stone, as well as cleaning it also helps build the patina. Alastair Robb West Cheshire TIle Doctor

Now for the fun, the actual painting process! Grab your paint and a brush, start off by using a damp paint brush, Dixie Belle Paint is water based so working with a damp brush will extend your paint and help you get a creamy smooth application every time. Depending on the look you are trying to achieve you can decide rather one or two coats is proper. After one or two coats of Dixie Belle Paint is applied, please allow paint to thoroughly dry. Depth, dimension, and details are fun personalization’s that create unique custom work that will look different than anyone else’s. There are several Dixie Belle Products to choose from; Wax, Stains, and Glaze all add color or dimension to the nooks and crannies of your cabinets. Depending on the look you are trying to achieve, you can also wet distress or dry distress, which allows the natural wood or other colors to peek through.

A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc (847) 827-1605 | A+ BBB Rating & Angie's List Award Company. We give FREE Estimates, always! For installations with new slate, we prefer to install only the highest quality time-tested slates. The combination of high quality slate, expert flashing design and installation, correct soldering, necessary underlayments for the conditions, and proper slate laying and fastening produces an aesthetic, long lasting roof that should have a serviceable life of 100+ years easily. Cutting corners on any one of these factors can shorten the life span of a slate roof from 100+ years to literally just a few years or less. A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. provides high quality roofing slate material to the United States. Founded in 2003, based upon twelve years of experience in the roofing slate industry, we pride ourselves on detailed knowledge of our products and their application. We focus exclusively on roofing slate together with the needs of home owners and contractors installing it. We have well-established and long-term relationships with many of the best slate producers all over the world. When it comes to any slate roofing project, A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. delivers unparalleled service and expertise. We look forward to working with you on your next project. We offer the following roofing services: • Roof Tear Offs • Roof Repair • Tile Roofs • Shingle Roofs • Flat Roofs • Slate Roofs • Gutters|Downspouts • Gravel Roofs • Energy Saving Roofs • Fascia Board Replacements • Torch-Ons • Roof Coatings • Plywood Installations • Hot Mopping • Solar Fans|Skylights • Balconies and Decks • Wood|Composite Shake Roofs • Attic Ventilation • Dry Rot Repairs • Spanish|Mission Tile Specialist • Inspections|Certifications • Gutter|Downspout Cleaning • Built-Up Roof Systems • Preventive Maintenance Please browse our website to find out what you need to know about our company, our services and our reputation. We’re sure you’ll agree…you can depend on A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. to build or repair your roof to last! We want you to be completely satisfied with your new roof. That’s why we spend so much time with you before we even set foot on a ladder. We have the quality and experience you can trust. We are licensed Illinois Roofing Contractors, bonded, and insured. Call us today at (847) 827-1605 for a free estimate!

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

Deck Brightener DSI is designed to be used after Deck Stripper DSI to neutralize the surface and restore the natural beauty of exterior wood. Deck Brightener DSI removes rust or tannin stains caused by fallen leaves and is recommended for use on all species of wood, including redwood. Deck Brightener DSI is an oxalic acid solution that removes dirt, grime, tannin, rust, and fungi stains from wood surfaces. This liquid concentrate is mixed with water (two parts water to one part concentrate) to brighten and restore the natural beauty of exterior wood. Deck Brightener DSI will not harm wood fibers, grass, or plants when used properly. Deck Brightener DSI is recommended for surface preparation prior to initial application of clear and semi-transparent finishes and stains. It is used as a neutralizer and brightener for all wood species that have been cleaned with Deck Stripper DSI. Even new wood needs to be cleaned in order to remove mill scale so the surface can more easily absorb deck stains. Deck Brightener DSI is not formulated to remove intact paint, stain, or clear finishes and may dull painted and metal surfaces if not quickly rinsed. Order Deck Brightener DSI shipped via UPS Ground to all 48 U.S. States except Alaska & Hawaii at: www.surfacerestoration.com/shop

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

Master bedroom exterior.
Example of an arts and crafts exterior home design in Boston

A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc (847) 827-1605 | A+ BBB Rating & Angie's List Award Company. We give FREE Estimates, always! For installations with new slate, we prefer to install only the highest quality time-tested slates. The combination of high quality slate, expert flashing design and installation, correct soldering, necessary underlayments for the conditions, and proper slate laying and fastening produces an aesthetic, long lasting roof that should have a serviceable life of 100+ years easily. Cutting corners on any one of these factors can shorten the life span of a slate roof from 100+ years to literally just a few years or less. A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. provides high quality roofing slate material to the United States. Founded in 2003, based upon twelve years of experience in the roofing slate industry, we pride ourselves on detailed knowledge of our products and their application. We focus exclusively on roofing slate together with the needs of home owners and contractors installing it. We have well-established and long-term relationships with many of the best slate producers all over the world. When it comes to any slate roofing project, A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. delivers unparalleled service and expertise. We look forward to working with you on your next project. We offer the following roofing services: • Roof Tear Offs • Roof Repair • Tile Roofs • Shingle Roofs • Flat Roofs • Slate Roofs • Gutters|Downspouts • Gravel Roofs • Energy Saving Roofs • Fascia Board Replacements • Torch-Ons • Roof Coatings • Plywood Installations • Hot Mopping • Solar Fans|Skylights • Balconies and Decks • Wood|Composite Shake Roofs • Attic Ventilation • Dry Rot Repairs • Spanish|Mission Tile Specialist • Inspections|Certifications • Gutter|Downspout Cleaning • Built-Up Roof Systems • Preventive Maintenance Please browse our website to find out what you need to know about our company, our services and our reputation. We’re sure you’ll agree…you can depend on A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. to build or repair your roof to last! We want you to be completely satisfied with your new roof. That’s why we spend so much time with you before we even set foot on a ladder. We have the quality and experience you can trust. We are licensed Illinois Roofing Contractors, bonded, and insured. Call us today at (847) 827-1605 for a free estimate!

This custom wrought iron pool fence in Calera, OK provides the security and safety needed around a swimming pool while maintaining an attractive, open view. We build our pool fencing with important safety features, including proper spacing, self-closing gates, and child-safety latches, with each installation designed to meet applicable pool fencing codes. Mike Downs Fencing has worked with pool companies for many years, giving us extensive experience building safe, durable pool fencing for homeowners throughout the Texoma area.

Eramosa White Porcelain Mosaic | This Ivory Eramosa White Porcelain Mosaic is 12in. x 12in. with a contemporary finish. Inkjet technology offers the very best in tile design. Offering excellent color range, sharp details and exceptional variation, inkjet technology will create a tile that is stunningly realistic. PEI measures a tile's durability and ability to withstand foot traffic, on a scale of 1-5. This tile, rated at 4 PEI, can withstand moderate to heavy traffic and is suitable for all residential and medium commercial floor and wall applications. This porcelain tile comes from Italy. Long known as the "home" of tile design, Italian designers lead the industry in creativity and style. Italian factories are also well known for their high quality products. Add a stylish touch to any room with porcelain flooring. It is ideal for its beauty and versatility and can also be used in any room in your house. With proper installation, porcelain tiles can last for years with very little maintenance. Porcelain is an excellent choice to decorate walls as well.

This fantastic Travertine tiled kitchen floor was in a bad way. Not only had it not been treated to a proper clean and seal in a long while, but it has also suffered from natural pitting, leaving lots of little holes that damaged the overall appearance of the floor. Travertine is very aesthetic, but suffers from the drawback of being quite soft compared to other types of stone (typically it sits between 3-4 on the Moh’s scale of mineral hardness). The customer, who lives in the town of Sleaford a small Lincolnshire market town, was keen to have the situation remedied through a complete restoration. This would need to include small repairs, along with a deep clean and a fresh seal. My first job was to deep clean the whole area, which I did using a solution of Tile Doctor Pro Clean and clean water. Pro Clean is a strong alkaline product which has a long history of producing reliable results of a wide range of natural stone floors, including Travertine, Granite, Limestone, and Slate. I applied the solution to both the tiles and the grout lines, and proceeded to scrub it in using a scrubbing pad fitted to a rotary floor machine. This left the floor fresh and clean, but I would also need to restore the polish to the Travertine to really take its appearance to the next level. To do this I used the process known as burnishing, which essentially involves the consecutive application of different gritted pads to achieve a high quality polish on tiles. Our burnishing system, which consists of four pads, achieves fantastic results on high-end polished stone like Limestone, Marble and, of course, Travertine. I started by applying the Coarse grit burnishing pad, before gradually working my way through to the Medium, Fine, and finally Very Fine pads to achieve a brilliant shine and light reflection finish. To round off the first day of the restoration, I used a flexible matching filler to fill up any pitted holes present on the surface of the tiles. Following this, I installed a turbo dryer to make sure the floor would dry fully overnight, and be ready to seal the following day. The next day I returned to the property and proceeded to seal the Travertine tiles using several costs of Tile Doctor Colour Grow sealer to protect the tiles and also really enhance the natural colours in the stone. As an impregnating sealer, Colour Grow penetrates into the stone and fills its pores to safeguard it against ingrained dirt and stains from within. As you can see from the photographs, the combination of a deep clean, high quality polish and fresh seal really transformed the appearance of the floor from dull and lifeless to a really asset to the kitchen. The customer was absolutely delighted with the results, leaving the following feedback: “Very good job – delighted! Thank you Phil!” Phil Barrs Lincolnshire Tile Doctor

Medium brow type color, single stain application on red oak by Bona
Elegant dining room photo in Boston