The most common error when using the Etch Remover Product is giving up too soon. Some etch marks may need only one quick application to restore the shine, however, often multiple applications are required as the paste gets scattered and/or used up.
We understand this can be a little confusing, so let me explain...
Etch marks are different than stains in that nothing is on or in the marble. The etch mark is actually a spot where the marble has been chemically burned and the shiny polished layer destroyed or removed resulting in a dull spot, which is just raw marble that needs to be re-finished.
What the Etch Remover does is re-polish the area much like sanding wood. You must apply the product in repeated sessions until the area is shiny again. This means rubbing until you see it become shiny. This is best accomplished by making multiple short applications and inspecting progress in between. And just like sanding wood smooth requires using a scratchy sandpaper, the etch remover polishes the stone smooth and shiny with an abrasive powder. Also, it has a chemical action needed to soften the marble so it can be polished.
Thus, when you apply the product it softens the marble and then basically scratches the marble (like sandpaper makes many fine scratches in wood) until the surface becomes smooth and shiny. If you rub just a little or just one round, then the marble will look dull. But the more you rub, the smoother and shinier it gets... just like sanding wood. So, it's just a matter of continuing the procedure. This is how it's done at all levels... at the factory polishing entire slabs or a professional re-polishing an entire floor, etc... it's a process involving chemical softening, abrasion and friction to achieve a smooth/shiny surface.
Restrict application and rubbing to the smallest area possible. In other words, don't rub too far beyond the borders of the etch mark. Apply just a little bit in the center of the etch mark and rub small circles just in the center. Once the powder / paste gets scattered about it's best to quickly wipe away all the powder and immediately rinse and clean the area thoroughly and then inspect.
Apply again, rub, clean, inspect until shiny. The number of times you need to do this depends on the marble and the severity of the etch mark. It's a bit different in every case. Some etch marks are restored quickly and others take more work. Just keep at it until the color and shine are restored.
In this manner, you can learn how to effectively use the product on a small area and see for yourself what is needed to restore the shine. Then you can tackle the remaining area and easily blend in the repair.
Most etch marks are from small spills and glass rings, however, if the damage is much larger, then work on small sections one at a time until the entire area is restored.
Do not let the powder/paste sit on the surface. As noted, this product has both physical and chemical action. The chemical action is needed to soften the marble so it can be polished to a shine. Thus, it is important that the powder / paste remain on the surface only long enough to make the repair.
In other words, get the surface wet, sprinkle on some powder and immediately start rubbing. Rub for 20-30 seconds until the powder / paste gets scattered and then immediately spray area with a stone cleaner (we recommend the Granite & Marble Cleaning Spray (1 QT) but the Soap Film Remover will work as well or hot water can do an adequate job) and immediately remove all powder and wipe clean in order to stop the chemical action.
If left on the surface or if the cloth used to apply the product is left on the surface it can dull the surface, but simply repeating or continuing the process will restore the shine.