General Wear:

Through normal living conditions, scratches and wear and tear that are created by foot traffic abrasion can affect stone finish. Dirt and grit between your feet and the stones surfaces mar the finish.

Improper Cleansers:

Acids damage all marble, limestone & travertine. Soaps, detergents, vinegar or other cleaners containing acid "etch" the stone causing dull, hazy and often milky colored markings that impact a stone finish.

Acidic Food & Drink Spills:

Many foods and drinks contain citric acid (i.e. sodas, fruits, juices, tomato sauces, liquors etc.) that impact a stone finish. These leave etch marks and glass rings where they contact the stone surface. Also, hot cooking oil can damage sealers in the stone and cause absorption in those areas. Reverse osmosis water filtering systems often change the pH of the water to acidic.

Sealing:

The improper application of sealers can leave residue displaying a dingy appearance. It will attract dirt and be very difficult to clean. If incorrect sealers are used wear, scuffing and pealing can occur and/or absorption of dirt and oils. An unsealed surface can absorb stains and eventually take on odor.

Installation:

Proper setting materials and techniques will largely impact the appearance. Uneven tiles (lippage) or jagged grout joints can leave the finish looking amateur. Some installers will grind down the lippage on a few tiles leaving dull and marred spots. The flushness of tiles (setting bed depth) and grout-joint-width should be determined prior to installation when possible.

Factory "Fill":

(compound used to fill holes / voids). Most commonly found in travertine, some tiles have a residue that can be felt as grimy and seen as dirty or blotchy.

Manufacturing:

The abrasive process can leave swirls or blemishes on the stone. As the abrasives wear, the finish can change from pallet to pallet. Density and color differences from one batch to the next can also affect luster.

Transport Wear

Stone is crated and then transported by truck, boat, train, forklift, etc. All the movement can generate wear & tear. It is usually stored in outdoor conditions where weather and debris can also have an effect.

Construction Wear:

During the construction process trades people come in contact with dirt and grit on the stone surface causing wear and marring. Also, equipment, appliances, tools, etc, can cause deep scratches and bruises if dragged or pushed across the stone.