tumble marble backsplash installation

I am installing tumble marble as a backsplash in our kitchen. I used a penetrating sealer before I went to install them; something I was told to do by a CSR at Lowe's. After applying 3 coats, the color did not change at all, something we did not want. The color stayed just plain ivory not the multi honey colored it looked like when it first was wet. I read on another site that I should have applied an enhancer not a penetrating sealer. So I use a stripper on the tiles and after they were dry, applied an enhaner. Now the tiles are very sticky and I can't get them dry to start installing. Do I have to throw these in the garbage and go by a whole new lot of tiles? PLEASE I need help.

What's a CSR? (Ceramic sales rookie maybe?)

Penetrating sealers do not change the appearance at all, as you now know. I am not sure if you can remove it since it is now below the surface. AquaMix makes a sealer remover, might be worth a try? [www.aquamix.com] http://www.custombuildingproducts.com/Prod/-/ngRemover.aspx?user=pro&lang=en

Jaz

Jaz; I was being nice and calling the worker a customer service representative. I have use a sealer stripper but they still are sticky. Will look up AquaMix and see if they have any recommendations. Thanks for the suggestion.

Anyone else have any ideas?

E.

Word of advice, never listen to anyone wearing an orange apron.

I was told that if you apply the penetrating sealer that the grout would not stick in the holes found in the face of the tile when grouting the tiles. Is this true?

Not true.

Ok.I'm not sure if anyone is still looking at this Post or not, but I had to reply. As for sealing the material to avoid grout from filling in the holes. That's crazy. Most 4x4 or 6x6 tumbled travertine (marble) come unfilled. The grout is what you use to fill it in. As for sealing the material prior to grouting, the only time you should have to do that is when you are using a porous tile who's color may change because of the grout color you are using. Now as for how the installation should have went you should have installed you travertine, then grouted your joints and tile, cleaned off any excess, then sealed the tile and grout with an enhancing stone sealer. I always tell my customers that when you are looking at stone, if you take a wet towel and wipe down half of the material, if you like the (wet concrete) look then use a stone sealer with an enhancer in it, if you prefer the natural look that appears after the material has dried, then just use a penetrating stone sealer.

I agree with Marco, I live in Arkansas and we have the same problem here with the Lowe's and Home Depot wannabes. Lol. I am a firm believer in educating my customer, whether they purchase the material from me or anywhere else, I just want them educated on what they are buying.

You should be able to buff or sand that sticky mess off your tile. Penatraiting sealer can be used before or after installation. But needs to be reapplied after grouting.