How Do I Repair A Dresser With A Marble Top?

Q: I have a 2'X4' dresser/credenza that has been in my husbands family for years. It is a darkly stained wood with a marble (I think) top on it. It looks like the previous owners have drilled some holes in the marble top and filled them with something white. I want this furniture piece to have a home behind my sofa. It is the perfect size for there but the top needs to be painted or refinished in some way (actually the whole piece needs re-finishing). Any ideas?

A: Marble is a natural stone and to my knowledge there is no way to fill a hole and not have it noticeable. That being said, my only suggestion would be to visit a marble company and talk to one of their experts. I would think that there are epoxy fills that might be able to be tinted to provide a reasonable match - of course, for you, they will always stand out!

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Drilling Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

Q: How do I drill a hole in ceramic tile?

A: If it is truly ceramic tile, you can use a standard masonry drill bit. Place a piece of duct tape over the area that you wish to drill (this will prevent the drill from slipping when you start and scratching the tile). Use a variable speed drill set for between 200 and 300 rpm. Dip the drill bit in cutting oil, if you do not have any cutting oil, then use a sponge to add water above the hole, allowing the water to trickle down into the hole, while you are drilling. This will reduce the friction, flush out the ceramic dust and cool the bit.

Do not apply a lot of pressure, allow the bit to do the work, if you apply to much pressure you will burn out the drill bit.

This will only work on ceramic tile. If you have porcelain or natural stone such as granite or marble you must use a diamond tipped drill bit.

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