How Do You Clean A Natural Stone Floor?
Stone floors are popular for many homes and businesses due to their classic appeal and durability. It is essential to clean and restore it regularly to keep a stone floor looking its best.
Understanding the Basics of Stone Floor Cleaning and Restoration
Stone floors come in various materials, including marble, travertine, slate, granite, limestone, and sandstone. Each material requires specific care and cleaning methods. Before cleaning and restoring a stone floor, it is vital to identify the type of stone and determine the best cleaning products and techniques for that specific material.
It is also essential to consider the age of the stone floor, as older stone may require more delicate cleaning methods. If the stone is cracked or chipped, it may need to be sealed or filled to prevent further damage.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Products for Stone Floors
When selecting cleaning products for a stone floor, it is essential to read the labels carefully to ensure they suit the type of stone. Use a mild, pH-neutral stone floor cleaning detergent for all stone types, as harsh cleaners such as ammonia and bleach damage some stones and any sealer. When cleaning food preparation surfaces, check that the cleaner is food-safe.
When cleaning stone floors, use a soft-bristled brush or mop to avoid scratching the surface. Finally, it is essential to allow the stone to dry before sealing.
Applying the Right Cleaning Techniques for Stone Floors
Once you have the right cleaning products, it is time to apply the correct cleaning techniques. Use a soft mop to clean the stone. You may need a soft-bristled brush for tougher marks. Some stone cleaners do not require rinsing; check the manufacturer's instructions to confirm if rinsing is necessary.
Avoid using too much water on old tile floors. Excess water can seep into the subfloor and cause damage. Avoid using strong or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the stone and the sealer.
Removing Stubborn Stains from a Stone Floor
You may need heavy-duty alkaline cleaners when removing stubborn stains such as ingrained soils, grease, oil, and food from a stone floor.
Avoid acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice as they etch calcium stones like marble, travertine and limestone. If you can't remove a stain, you can try a poultice.
The poultice should be applied thickly and left to dry for the recommended time. If the stain persists, you should call for professional help.
Enhancing the Shine of a Stone Floor
Marble, Travertine and Limestone Stone floors can lose their natural shine over time due to dirt buildup and foot traffic. Enhancing a shine requires experienced professionals with the right equipment and work experience.
Professionals use a polishing powder or paste explicitly designed for natural stone. These products contain fine abrasives that buff out any scratches and help restore the stone's original shine and colour.
Polishing and Sealing a Stone Floor
After polishing, it is crucial to seal the floor from future damage. Sealing helps stop spills from turning into stains by preventing moisture from penetrating the surface.
Repairing Damage on a Stone Floor
A resin or epoxy filler is best to repair chips and cracks in polished stone floors. A Cement or epoxy grout is popular for rough stone and stone sealed with a topical sealer.
Sometimes, grinding and resurfacing is the only option for damaged and scratched floors.
Maintaining a Clean and Restored Stone Floor
Once a stone floor has been cleaned and restored, it is essential to maintain it to keep it looking its best. It is important to sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust or debris from the surface. A damp mop should also be used at least once a week with a cleaner designed specifically for natural stone. In addition, keep an eye on the sealer and top up when needed.
Following these steps, you can maintain your floor's beauty over time. If you have any further questions about how to care for your natural stone floor, consult with a professional flooring specialist for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to clean stone floors?
Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap (specific products from Lithofin for example), or a dishwashing detergent and warm water.
What's best cleaner for stone tiles?
We recommend finding a pH neutral cleaner, such as Lithofin Wash & Clean, diluted in warm water. This product is made for natural stone and will help clean, enhance, and maintain the natural surface of your tiles.
How do you maintain a stone floor?
Typically, regular upkeep of stone flooring involves periodic washing, dusting, sealing, and polishing. Dirt, sand, and grit are the most abrasive substances for natural stone, so it's important to clean these up as quickly and frequently as possible.