Lippage refers to the unevenness between adjacent tiles or slabs of natural stone, where one edge is higher or lower than the adjacent piece. Lippage can occur during the installation process or over time due to settling, wear, or other factors. To remove lippage and achieve a more even surface, the following steps can be taken:

1. Evaluation: Assess the extent of the lippage and determine the best course of action. The severity of the lippage will determine whether grinding, honing, or a combination of both methods is needed.
2. Grinding: If the lippage is significant, grinding may be required to level the surface. Grinding involves using diamond abrasives with a grinding machine to remove the excess stone and bring the tiles or slabs to a more even level. Coarse-grit diamond pads are typically used initially to remove the higher edges and reduce the lippage. The process continues with progressively finer grits until the desired levelness is achieved.
3. Honing: After grinding, honing can be performed to further refine the surface and achieve a smoother appearance. Honing involves using progressively finer abrasives to remove any remaining scratches or roughness caused by the grinding process. The honing process can be adjusted to achieve the desired finish, from a matte or satin sheen to a higher level of gloss.
4. Cleaning and inspection: Once the lippage removal process is complete, thoroughly clean the surface to remove any dust or debris. Inspect the area to ensure that the lippage has been effectively removed, and the tiles or slabs are now level and even.
5. Sealing (optional): Depending on the type of stone and its intended use, applying a suitable sealer may be recommended. Sealing helps protect the stone from staining and water damage. It is especially important if the lippage removal involved grinding, as it may have exposed fresh stone surfaces that are more susceptible to staining.

It’s important to note that lippage removal can be a complex process that requires skill and expertise. It is typically recommended to hire professionals experienced in natural stone restoration to achieve the best results. They have the knowledge, tools, and techniques to assess the stone, determine the appropriate level of lippage removal, and handle any challenges that may arise during the process.

Additionally, it’s worth considering that lippage removal may alter the appearance of the stone surface. It is important to evaluate the overall aesthetic and consider if the desired results can be achieved through lippage removal or if alternative solutions, such as tile replacement or adjustment, may be more suitable.

If you think that your natural stone might need lippage removal feel free to contact us.

We are ready to give you free quote.