The grout was crumbling away due to underlying issues.
This image shows etching on the stone as well as the missing grout.
This travertine floor required honing and polishing to remove damage and restore to like-new.
Here is one of the etch marks the customer thought were stains.
The etch mark was erased with honing and polishing. 
This is the shower before color sealing.
A closer look shows inconsistency in color.
In the end, the travertine shower looked brand-new!
Our customer contacted us due to crumbling grout in certain areas of their travertine bathroom floor and shower floor. Upon inspection, we identified several underlying issues. They were also interested in having both the floor and shower professionally cleaned and sealed.
Problem 1: Crumbling Grout
The grout was deteriorating because there were hollow spots beneath the tiles, allowing movement. Simply regrouting would only provide a temporary fix, as the underlying movement would cause the grout to crumble again.
Solution:
We addressed the root cause by filling the voids under the tiles to prevent further movement. First, we removed the loose grout, then applied a liquid adhesive that flowed beneath the tiles, stabilizing them. Afterward, we regrouted the area, ensuring long-term stability.
Problem 2: Etch Marks
The customer also expressed concern about what they believed were stains. Upon examination, we explained that these were etch marks, not stains. Etch marks occur when acidic substances, such as improper cleaners, come into contact with the stone, causing surface damage.
Solution:
Etch marks cannot be removed through cleaning alone, as the surface of the stone is physically damaged. We used a restorative process to hone and polish the stone, effectively removing the etching. The stone was then sealed to prevent future (actual) staining.
Problem 3: Discolored Grout Lines
The grout in the shower had become discolored due to age and use. We always inform customers that while a deep cleaning will improve grout appearance, it may not restore the grout to a perfectly uniform, new condition. In this case, the grout color inconsistencies were compounded by the repair work.
Solution:
To resolve this, we applied grout color sealing, which covered the discoloration and provided a consistent, fresh appearance. Additionally, grout color sealing, which lasts for years, offers long-lasting benefits such as anti-mildew and anti-fungal properties, making future cleaning much easier and more effective.
Outcome:
The customer was thrilled with the restored-to-like-new transformation of their travertine bathroom floor and shower, appreciating both the aesthetic improvement and the long-term protection provided.
If your stone or tile bath and shower have lost their original like-new appearance, and you’re looking for real solutions, reach out to us to schedule a free estimate. Let us restore the beauty and durability of your surfaces!