FAQs

For the most part, if a natural stone can be repaired, HILGARTNER can repair it. We have sucessfully repaired Onyx, Marble, Grainte, Gneiss, Slate, Limestone, Shellstone, Alabaster, Soapstone, Quartzite and Sandstone within the last 20 years alone. MAN-MADE stones (or stone-like products), generically marketed as "Quartz" can possibly be repaired by HILGARTNER, depending on the specific product and the synthetic components used in its' manufacture. There are also Ceramic products that resemble Natural Stone, which can possibly present problems when attempting to repair. The best way to find out is to call us and ask - if your damaged item is MAN-MADE, please provide the specific product NAME when you do! Learn More

The biggest difference is ENVIRONMENT.  Temperature, precipitation, and humidity all have an impact on both Natural Stone and the repair medium (patch materials).  Materials used for Exterior repairs must be able to expand and contract with the stone, and also manage water/moisture through that same temperature cycle.  When a temperature cycle goes below the freezing temperature of water, unless the stone and patch expand and contract together and at the same pace - fissures will open, water will get in - and when the water expands, either the stone or patch will break. Interior patches/repairs do not suffer from these same issues. As a result, more options are available to Interior repairs to make the aesthetic of the repair less visible than Exterior repairs. Learn More

"Better" is a misleading word.  "Different" is a more accurate description for the two generally-accepted methods of repairing natural stone.  Since HILGARTNER opened its doors in 1863, we have enjoyed a reputation as among the best in "Dutchman" repairs.  With the development of epoxy and patching materials in the early 1970's and polymer-modified cement patching materials in the 1990's, HILGARTNER has remained on the leading edge of those techniques as well.  It's our philosophy that it's best to discuss repair options and let the client choose once he or she understands the implications and results of the selection. Learn More

Yes it can, if travel is required for HILGARTNER personnel.

Written and documented estimates that are being submitted to an insurance adjuster will incur an INSPECTION fee that may be credited towards the final balance of your order should you choose to proceed with HILGARTNER for the repair or replacement.

Yes!  With decades of experience, HILGARTNER has the skills and knowledge to treat your stone features for soiling, stains and other surface damage to return them to their former beauty.  While durable, stone can also be subject to damage from normal everyday use and common household products. At HILGARTNER we treat such damage with great caution and care, with a focus on achieving the best outcome with the minimum amount of alteration to the stone as possible. Learn More

Under most conditions, the short answer is YES.  However, this depends heavily on the type of repair and the desired outcome.  When evaluating damaged stone, there are many methods available for repair, but only some of them can be executed in the field. A shop repair in our factory affords us the control and tools for the best possible outcome. However, in many instances a field repair can offer an improved appearance that meets client expectations.

Whether contemporary or historic, HILGARTNER has the resources and knowledge to match existing stone if it is still quarried, and sometimes even when it isn't! You can be sure that we will do everything within reason to find the best possible match to existing materials for repair and restoration work, should replacement materials be required.