Stone Floor Maintenance: Tips for Different Surface Types in 2023
For thousands of years, stone has been used as the foundation for homes, buildings, and the like. This is no surprise given its durability and functionality. When it comes to stone floors and stone floor maintenance, in particular, there are a variety of designs, types, and finishes. This versatile floor option is also one that exudes a feeling of elegance, making it an ideal option for the different corners of your home.
That being said, it’s important to understand how to properly take care of your stone flooring. A stone floor needs specific care, and the only way it can keep a beautiful, shiny, and polished surface is through proper stone floor maintenance. In this article, you’ll learn about what advantages stone floors have, why maintaining this type of floor is important, and the difference between two common floor surfaces.
Why choose stone floors?
If you’re wondering why so many people love having stone floors in their homes, the answer is simple – stone floors have many great advantages!
Durability
Stone is one of the most durable materials you can choose for your floor. It’s ideal for frequent use, especially because it is hard-wearing. Choosing stone flooring is also sure to provide a solid foundation no matter which area of your house you have it in.
Luxurious look and feel
Stone floors aren’t just strong and sturdy – they’re also nice to look at. Whether it’s marble or granite, stone floors have a way of elevating any room. You also have a wide variety of stone floor types to choose from, meaning you’re not limited with how your spaces look.
Temperature regulation
If you’re living somewhere with a warm climate, stone floors can actually help keep your house cooler. That’s because stone is naturally cool. On the other hand, if you want to add heating to your home, installing underfloor heating also poses no problem when you have a stone floor.
Easy cleaning
Stone floors don’t collect dust or dirt because of their smooth surfaces. That means they’re easier to clean, and are ideal for those with allergies since it lessens their exposure to things like dust.
Why is stone floor maintenance important?
Stone floors are eye-catching and long-lasting, but that doesn’t mean that nothing can damage them. If you’re looking to invest in stone floors, proper stone floor maintenance is necessary to preserve their beauty and prolong their lifespan.
Additionally, knowing how to correctly maintain them will help you avoid cleaning materials or methods that may cause more harm than good. In the long run, proper maintenance will help you get the most out of your investment in stone floors.
What are the two common stone floor surface types?
If you want to know how to properly maintain your stone floor, you first have to know what type of surface it has. Identifying whether you have a crystallised surface or a mechanically polished surface, and the difference between the two, will help ensure that you won’t end up ruining your floors.
Additionally, knowing how to correctly maintain them will help you avoid cleaning materials or methods that may cause more harm than good. In the long run, proper maintenance will help you get the most out of your investment in stone floors.
Surfaces that underwent crystallisation
Surfaces that have gone through the process of crystallisation are those that were treated with a wax or polymer-based product. This is a type of chemical treatment that is commonly done to stones such as marble and limestone.
Using any type of detergent on this surface could cause damage. Over time, it may even cause the floor to be completely opaque. It is also important to note that you should not apply any type of sealer to a chemically-treated surface. That’s because most stone floor polishing products contain wax, and are polymer-based. This means that the surface does not have open pores where the sealer can penetrate and form a shield against stains.
Since crystallisation alters the chemical composition of the stone’s surface, you have to repeat the process in the event your floor starts to lose its shine. In terms of cleaning crystallised surfaces, you can use a mop or a microfiber cloth and a neutral detergent.
Surfaces that are mechanically polished
Mechanically polished surfaces, such as marble or tile that has been sanded and polished at a factory, have a completely different surface and shine from crystallised floors. Sanding the tile with diamond tools and equipment results in a shine generated by the stone’s surface itself. The degree of shine can even be customised based on what methods are used.
Unlike chemical treatments, the natural beauty of the stone is not covered; instead, its characteristics are enhanced. These surfaces can be treated with a penetrating sealer to serve as protection. In terms of maintenance, you can just use water and a simple stone floor cleaner, such as a neutral detergent.
Which surface type is better?
Choosing between a crystallised surface and a mechanically polished surface usually comes down to your preference. However, it’s good to know the pros and cons of choosing either.
A lot of contractors prefer mechanically polished stone floors more because of their longevity. Despite costing more upfront, it is the more sustainable choice in the long run. Mechanically polished stone floors also create more of a crisp shine. Additionally, its surface is more slip-resistant and hard-wearing.
Crystallised floors, on the other hand, have a glossy type of shine. It’s also quite stain-resistant. These floors are more inexpensive but may need more maintenance down the line. That’s because it involves applying chemicals to the stone, which may make it chip away faster.
Don’t neglect your floors
Overall, stone floor maintenance isn’t something that you should overlook. Using the wrong products or techniques will result in a waste of time, money, and effort. You’ll find your floor’s lifespan decreasing significantly, and the beauty of your stone floor will also be affected.
By going through the proper steps for stone floor maintenance, you can ensure that your floors remain in top condition for years to come.
If you’re looking for help in taking care of your stone floors, that’s something that Stone Polishing Solutions can do for you! We offer services that span from polishing and high-pressure cleaning to regrouting and complete floor restoration. We offer these services in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and surrounding suburbs.
To schedule an appointment, call us on 1300 850 470, or send us a message at info@stonepolishingsolutions.com.au.
