Question

There are two principal methods for maintaining stone floors: applying coatings or honing and polishing. Which would you recommend to your client, and why?

Answer

There are advantages and disadvantages to both methods, but honing and polishing is generally better. Coatings are easy to apply and can be repaired by buffing. They will, however, mar and scuff easily; they yellow and are labor intensive to maintain. The honing and polishing method is long lasting, allows stone to breathe, and uses less labor. However, it requires greater skill and does not provide stain protection.