Limestone/Travertine Refinishing with Rotex 150?

[ScotF]

Hi everyone,

I have limestone flooring in need of some TLC -- nothing too major, but I do have some etching in spots and some light scratches in places. Having the floor refinished is very expensive and I was thinking that I could polish is myself with a Rotex. I saw some threads earlier by Dan Clark and others that lead me to think this can be done. So my question to all the experts here is 1. Do you think this is crazy and should I just hire it out? 2. Is the Rotex up to the task? 3. If it is, what abrasives would you suggest? I have a honed surface now that is a satin-type finish -- not gloss. I suppose I could practice on a small section but would be curious what others have used.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Scot

 

[mwhafner]

Get a couple of test pieces and try it.  I would try something like a Platin pad if you are trying to polish.  Don't use anything too aggressive. 

I have used my Rotex, high grit (220+) Brilliant, Platin and a "Scotch-brite" type pad to polish/buff some slate tile.  I was trying to remove some grout from a failed sealer, and the results were great.  It also worked well when trying to ease cut edges. 

 

[Dan Clark]

Scot,

I've had good results with StoneTech polishing and honing powders: http://www.jondon.com/catalog/advanced_search_result.php?osCsid=c9453cd5edef41179dba0a4d2d3e7681&keywords=stonetech&x=0&y=0 .  You can use these with a Festool polishing pad and soft felt.  Keep it wet and embed the powder in the felt.    Try the polishing powder (1500) and then go down the grit levels. 

Regards,

Dan.