Repolishing marble fireplace

[overlander matt]

I've recently purchased a Victorian era marble fire surround that is not in great shape but I think has potential... Unfortunately there's never a convenient photo at hand when you need one. Of the 5 components that make up the surround, 2 pieces have been repaired and stripped back to the bare stone (and look very good) and the other pieces are fairly dirty but unstained. I've never carried out any repair/restoration work of marble before and am not sure where best to go for help - the local monumental masons don't seem interested. How difficult a job is polishing flat stone surfaces and what tools are required? Any advice on this would be much appreciated - this has slowed down progress somewhat and I need a solution.

Thanks in advance.

Matt

 

[steveb]

If it's anything like polishing granite, it's a skill that needs to be learned. I had a stonemason in to cut and polish the edges of some re-purposed granite worktops, took him ages. The polishing went through the grades of the pads religiously and there was a lot of grades to get through. It was however remarkable to watch how a rather dull and grey piece of cut stone slowly turned into something shiny and colourful.

You could get a set of polishing pads from your favorite retailer, attach them to an angle grinder on slow and practice on the backs. I think the recipe is patience, patience and more patience.

 

[plasticpigeon]

I don't know but I'm pretty sure the Victorian finish was never very shiny. If just dirty would a wash not suffice?

 

[Abi Cott]

Marble is much softer than granite, as I understand it it's more akin to a very hard hardwood. It does not like acid, and given coal can give off acid fumes it can be permanently stained by being in a fire place.

I'm no expert, but in the same situation I'd seriously consider handing it to a mate that's a car detailer.

 

[Edward Ian]

I am not so sure about marble, but I restored a slate surround recently. Wet and dry sandpaper (finest grade) and a lot of elbow grease. Followed by a stone sealer.
There are a few fireplace restoration companies around like Britain's Heritage who would do the work for a fee, and might offer you some advice.
Marble is quite soft and porous, so best get as much advice as you can before you do anything.

 

[overlander matt]

Thanks for the suggestions. I have finally remembered to take a photo to show you what we have:



The piece at the front left has been stripped leaving it a very nice light grey colour. I would be keen to try to get the other pieces to this state and then look to seal/polish. It does not look like it was ever excessively shiny, so a low sheen would be just fine.

I have used Britain's Heritage for restoring several of the cast iron inserts/fireplaces we have. They have done a great job on those and I'm sure they could probably advise the best course of action. I will update the post when progress is made!

Thanks,

Matt