This was an unusual request to clean a modern piece of contemporary artwork by New York City artist Mel Kendrick on display in one of the gardens of the Wormsley Estate. I’m no art expert but having done some research on the internet it appears to be part of a collection known as “Markers” that were on display at the Madison Square Park in 2009. The work is made from concrete cast into different coloured sections and fitted together to form a rather larger piece of art which having been exposed to the UK elements was now starting to discolour and go orange in part. Cleaning Modern Concrete Artwork Being such a prestigious work of art i had to be careful not to damage the stone in anyway so after careful consideration I worked out a process using an alkaline cleaning product Tile Doctor Pro-Clean. To get the statue clean I used a warm water dilution of Tile Doctor Pro Clean working it into small areas at a time spraying the solution on and scrubbing with a brush, then rinsing it off with clean water. This process took some time but certainly did the trick. Sealing a Concrete Artwork With this project being outdoors and with it taking a couple of days I had to pick a good weather window and fortunately the weather held out long enough so I could continue and seal the concrete in order to protect it going forward. Again careful consideration had to be given to the choice of sealer and in the end I went with Tile Doctor Ultra Seal which is an impregnating sealer that soaks into the pores protecting from within and most importantly it’s a natural look sealer that does not change or enhance the colours. If you’re a lover a modern art then you should appreciate the difference and will agree with me that the statue now looks new again.

With a location-to-die-for on Great Neck-Ipswich, MA, this perfectly perched home was desperate for an upgrade. The clients, anxious to downsize and create a lifestyle more true to their hearts, left their hectic Wellesley address behind and set out, with kayaks in tow, for life on The Neck! Once a cookie-cutter spec-home, this reinvented craftsman style, now reminiscent of Martha’s Vineyard and the like, will inspire you to rub your eyes, blink hard and say, “We’re not in Wellesley anymore!”. The selections couldn’t have been more appropriate: Cascade Blue window cladding to compliment the Seacoast Grey Maibec shingles, the simulated divided light/multi-pane windows, the nature-inspired & earthy color palette, partially paned door, tapered columns, and an outdoor (Vineyard staple) shower adorned by a pergola overhead. The understated outdoor shower only adds to the vacation feel of this retirement retreat, perfect for rinsing off the sand after a day at Clark Beach or kayaking Ipswich Bay & Plum Island Sound. Photo By Eric Roth

The owners of this beachfront retreat wanted a whole-home remodel. They were looking to revitalize their three-story vacation home with an exterior inspired by Japanese woodcraft and an interior the evokes Scandinavian simplicity. Now, the open kitchen and living room offer an energetic space for the family to congregate while enjoying a 360 degree coastal views. Built-in bunkbeds for six ensure there’s enough sleeping space for visitors, while the outdoor shower makes it easy for beachgoers to rinse off before hitting the deckside hot tub. It was a joy to help make this vision a reality!

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

Microwave mounted below double-sided work island. Trash concealed in cabinet behind microwave. 15" deep base cabinets provide enough room for appliances in island. Single basin 30" extra deep sink with pre-rinse style sprayer. Quartz countertop features waterfalls on both edges of island. Wall between kitchen and dining room was removed (see before photo).

This family came to Gary Duff Designs before they had even closed on their new house. It wouldn’t be the home of their dreams if they couldn’t have a backyard of their dreams to match. Gary Duff Designs turned these new homeowners’ vision a reality. The complete redesign included a built-out swimming pool with three sheer descents, a spacious fire pit equipped with seating space and new fence and plantings for privacy. It even included an added bonus: an outdoor shower that offers the perfect environment to rinse and relax.

The new kitchen included JSI Essex Castle Grey solid wood cabinets with soft close doors and drawers with Brushed Nickel hardware. We installed a back splash in Silverton Glass in the color Smoke and raven color grout. We also finished the outside edges in Antracite Schluter edging. The countertops in the Kitchen, Bar and Island are Misterio Polished-Pental Quartz. The dining room countertop is Eternal Serena Quartz Silestone. The Kitchen Sink is a Kraus Kore Workstation with a 33" Apron Front 16 Gauge Stainless Sink Single Bowl with a Moen Align pre-rinse spring pulldown kitchen faucet stainless steel. Bar Faucet- Moen Align 1.5 GPM Single Hole Pull Down Bar Faucet with Reflex and Duralast Technology. Bar Sink - Kraus Kore Workstation 17" Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl. Island Sink- Kraus Kore Workstation 23" Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl with a Moen Align Pull-Down Spray faucet. We also added Insinkerator Digital Instant Hot Water Tank and Filtration System. Installed two InSinkErator ESSENTIAL XTR N/A Evolution 3/4 HP Single Phase Garbage Disposals with SoundSeal and MultiGrind Technology. For the Kitchen lighting we installed BELDI 1933-H Peak Ceiling Pendant Fixtures with consisted of four lights over island, one over sink. and in the dining Room we installed 4 ea. Classic Brushed Dark Gray Modern Lantern Drum Mini Coastal Pendant Light LED Compatible. For the flooring in the Kitchen, Dining room, Entrance way and Bathroom we installed Floor Source Savoia; Woodland Series; Black; 6"x39" Glazed porcelain wood look tile with Charcoal gray grout. Included in this project we renovated a Bathroom and laundry station off the kitchen. The Bathroom has JSI Essex Castle Grey solid wood construction with soft close doors and drawers. The countertop is Enchanted Rock Quartz. For the lighting we installed 2 Kovacs Alecia's Tears Single Light 32" Wide Integrated LED Bathroom Vanity Light with Frosted Glass. Vanity sink is Badeloft Undermount ramp sink with a Doux Chrome Two-Handle High Arc Faucet by Moen. We finished the bathroom with 3 frameless Gatco mirrors.

Matthew T. Gill, VP Operations, Exact Match Masonry Staining, LLC Matthew T. Gill, VP Operations, Exact Match Masonry Staining, LLC A stunning and spacious custom stone home's color was damaged by loose clay soil during the construction process. While landscaping surrounds the stone so that no further issues will occur, the damage done was impossible to reverse safely with cleaning. Stone veneer cannot be pressure washed or chemically washed without damaging it. A safe rinse with water or soft brush did not help. Stone Veneer manufacturers rely on and refer their clients to Exact Match because we are the only industry approved method for as permanent color correction for stone. Whether stone needs to be corrected lighter or darker, we can help you change or restore the color of your home while keeping the same, natural appearance you would expect for high-end custom stone. Call, email or visit our site today for a no cost quote or ask us questions, we're here to help!

You're never in a hurry in this spa-like bathroom. Whether you are taking a dip, or rinsing off after a workout, this room puts you in a great mood as you tackle whatever is next.

An over-view of the kitchen.
Inspiration for a mid-sized 1950s l-shaped concrete floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Phoenix with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Goals While their home provided them with enough square footage, the original layout caused for many rooms to be underutilized. The closed off kitchen and dining room were disconnected from the other common spaces of the home causing problems with circulation and limited sight-lines. A tucked-away powder room was also inaccessible from the entryway and main living spaces in the house. Our Design Solution We sought out to improve the functionality of this home by opening up walls, relocating rooms, and connecting the entryway to the mudroom. By moving the kitchen into the formerly over-sized family room, it was able to really become the heart of the home with access from all of the other rooms in the house. Meanwhile, the adjacent family room was made into a cozy, comfortable space with updated fireplace and new cathedral style ceiling with skylights. The powder room was relocated to be off of the entry, making it more accessible for guests. A transitional style with rustic accents was used throughout the remodel for a cohesive first floor design. White and black cabinets were complimented with brass hardware and custom wood features, including a hood top and accent wall over the fireplace. Between each room, walls were thickened and archway were put in place, providing the home with even more character.

Rainwater and storm water runoff can be captured and used to replenish backyard (or commercial/public) water features and also replenish a water feature’s surrounding landscape, wash a car, rinse down a deck or patio, etc. www.deckandpatio.com

Robert Schwerdt
Inspiration for a large mid-century modern eat-in kitchen remodel in Other with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

The Voyage Outdoor Sofa Set creates an exotic paradise in your own back yard. This set is known for its graceful curves and contemporary style. The rich mocha color works in almost any outdoor setting and with almost any patio furniture. This set is the perfect place to entertain guests with cocktails, read a book, or lounge by the pool. Your family and friends will love its comfortable cushions and its elegant style. The entire set is made from PE Wicker, the industry standard and known for its weather resistance and durability. For style, reliability, and comfort, no other outdoor sofa set comes close to the Voyage Outdoor Sofa Set. Features: Set includes 2 armchairs, 1 sofa, and 1 table Hand crafted from tightly woven PE Wicker All cushions covers are zippered, machine washable, and resistant to mold and mildew Virtually maintenance free - simply rinse it clean with a hose Easy to assemble (tools and instructions included) Dimensions: Sofa: 30"D x 50.25"W x 33"H Table: 21.25"D x 42"W x 17.25"H Chair: 30"D x 28.35"W x 33"H Product Specifications Manufactured By Great Deal Furniture Sold By Great Deal Furniture Width 50.25" Depth 30" Height 33" Materials PE Wicker Great Deal Furniture

This property was in theLadbroke Grove area of West London near Kensington. The client had found an old and probably original black and white checkered pattern Victorian tiled floor under their cork tiled flooring. They also reported that it was badly damaged so I thought it would be best if I paid them a visit first to see how extensive the damage was and whether it was repairable. The floor was in a quite a state, the tiles were covered in glue from the cork and had several areas had been back filled with cement. I reassured them that the damage could be rectified, and that it would be possible to completely restore the floor back to a good standard. I would have to remove the glue, remove the cement that had been used to level the floor and replace with reclaimed tiles to match. They were relieved to find out it could be done and happy with my quote I was instructed to go ahead with the work. We started by taping up the skirting boards to protect the woodwork. With this done attention was turned to the glue which was softened using a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Remove and Go so it could be carefully scraped off. Multiple techniques and tools were needed to remove the glue including hand-held scrappers and a black pad fitted to a buffing machine. For the stubborn areas steam was applied to help lift the adhesive out the tile. Once all the glue was removed the floor was rinsed and the alkaline cleaner neutralised with Tile Doctor Grout Clean Up which further cleaned the tiles and removed old traces of grout from the floor. Old floors like this generally don’t have a damp proof membrane underneath so the acids in the Grout Clean-up also counter any efflorescent salts trapped in the tile. Once this was completed the slurry was removed with a wet vacuum and left to fully dry out overnight. The following day focus turned to repairing the areas of the floor where the tiles were missing or broken. The main issue being the cemented areas, we see this a lot with Victorian Hallways and generally what happens is a heating engineer digs out the floor to install pipework. Not being tilers, your average plumber then repairs the floor with a self-levelling cement that brings the level up to the surface of the tile so it can be covered with lino, carpet of in this case cork. The sub floor was then rebuilt with rapid setting self-levelling compound but this time to below the level of the tile. Once the new base was dry it was a just a question of re-tiling with the replacement tiles to match the original checkered pattern. The replacement reproduction tiles were sourced from Original Features in Crouch End North London. After grouting we left the floor to dry out over the weekend. When we returned to seal the floor our first step was to check the floor was dry using a moisture meter. This is critical as the sealant will not cure correctly if there is too much moisture in the floor. In this case the extra two days we had allowed had done its job and the test had confirmed it was ready to accept a sealer. The client wanted the floor finish not to be too shiny once sealed so we opted to seal with two coats of Tile Doctor Seal and Go Extra. This is good choice for old Victorian floors such as this example as it’s special acrylic-based formula allows for moisture vapour transmission which as mentioned previously is a concern where no damp proof membrane has been installed. I’m please to confirm my clients were delighted with the result, as you can see from the pictures the black and white floor restoration makes for a dramatic entrance well in keeping with the style of the property. For aftercare I recommended the use of Tile Doctor Neutral Tile Cleaner which will keep the tiles in good condition going forward without damaging the new sealer. Jackson Davis Central London Tile Doctor

This Scripps Ranch master bathroom remodel is a perfect example of smart spatial planning. While not large in size, the design features within pack a big punch. The double vanity features lighted mirrors and a tower cabinet that maximizes storage options, using vertical space to define each sink area, while creating a discreet storage solution for personal items without taking up counter space. The enclosed walk-in shower with modern soaking tub affords the best of both worlds - you can soak your troubles away and rinse off in the shower without tracking water across the bathroom floor. What do you love about this remodel?

Inspiration for a kitchen remodel in Sacramento

Robert Schwerdt
Eat-in kitchen - large 1950s eat-in kitchen idea in Other with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Pictured below is a very mouldy Ceramic Tiled Shower Cubicle at a property in the picturesque market town of Woodstock, which is very close to the famous Blenheim Palace and has a long history that dates to the Domesday Book and have many 17th century buildings. As you can see mould had really got a grip on the white grout around the bottom of the shower and in most other places the grout had become discoloured. Mould and discolouration are a very common problem and is caused by a lack of ventilation in the bathroom as well as the dyes in soap and shampoos. Most ceramic tiles have a glazed surface and so are fairly impervious to these problems, grout however is a problem due to its cementitious rough nature. I discussed with the client what could be done to restore the appearance of the shower cubicle for them, and they were pleased to hear we could do something about it. Happy with my quotation it wasn’t long before I got instructed to go ahead with the work. To resolve the problem, I first sprayed the whole shower with Tile Doctor Duo Clean and left it to soak in. The bottle comes with a spray attachment that combines the product with air making it lighter and easier to stick to vertical surfaces. It is a fast effective cleaner which doubles up as a grout cleaner and mould remover. Whilst the Tile Doctor Duo Clean was doing its magic I fetched the other tools I would need to complete this job. After about 30 minutes I sprayed the cubicle again and started to hand scrub the grout and tiles to remove the mould and dirt. I then rinsed with water and went over the stubborn stains again until I was happy. The walls where then dried with a clean towelling cloth. It is amazing the difference you can achieve with the right grout cleaning product and a lot of elbow grease. The last step and “prise de la resistance” was to cut out all the original silicone sealant with a sharp knife and then replace with new white sealant which had an anti-mould formula. I am not convinced these anti-mould products work any better to be honest but with mould being such a problem it is definitely worth giving them a go. The last step was to spray the grout with Tile Doctor Wall Tile and Grout Sealer to help protect the grout, it forms a protective barrier over the tile and the grout, so water just runs straight off the wall and into the shower tray. For after care I recommended the use of Tile Doctor Aqua-Pro which is pH neutral cleaner designed for showers and will help the sealer last longer. Stronger supermarket products can actually strip a sealer off the tile over time so we don’t recommend their use. I think you will agree the shower cubicle looked transformed by the time I had finished, certainly my client was very happy with the work we had carried out. Barry Woodward Oxfordshire Tile Doctor