How-To ·
How to Prevent Marble Lippage from Becoming a Trip Hazard
Lippage is the height difference between adjacent tiles. Early assessment and controlled grinding can improve both appearance and walkability.
How lippage develops
Substrate movement, installation tolerances, tile thickness, and settling can leave one edge higher than the next. Dirt and worn finish make the difference more visible, but cleaning does not correct the height change.
Mark any edge that catches a shoe, vacuum, or bare foot. Recurring chips along a seam can also indicate a transition that needs attention.
The correction plan
A professional grinding process levels the high edges and blends the surrounding tiles through progressively finer abrasives. The goal is a consistent plane, not simply a brighter surface.
A technician should also look for loose tiles, cracks, or movement below the stone. Surface grinding cannot fix a structural issue that is still moving.
Need help with your stone?
Elite Marble Care provides free on-site estimates across Greater Los Angeles. Request a free estimate or call (818) 903-0970.