What’s The Easiest Way To Restore Natural Stone Floors
Different stones require different processes or at least a slightly different handling procedure. Some natural stones are harder than others while some may quickly react to cleaning agents compared to others.
When it comes to natural stone restoration, it is important to know that kind of stone you are dealing with. It is crucial that you understand their characteristics so you can use the right materials, cleaning agents, and restoration tools.
Although different kinds of natural stones require different approaches, there are certain restoration methods that apply to all. It is in the handling that you may need to research.
The easiest way to restore natural stone is through the following steps:
Step 1
Determine the process and treatment you will use to clean, repair, and restore the natural stone tiles or bench top or surface. This is the most important step because using the wrong treatment and misapplication of the restoration process can damage the stone even more, sometimes permanently.
For example, certain cleaning agents can cause etching on marble or limestone. You need to know the characteristics of the stone and what type of treatment and methods are applicable.
Step 2
Clean the stone surface by sweeping, mopping or wiping it clean. Make sure that the surface is dry and free from dust and debris that will cause more damage when the restoration process starts.
Step 3
Do a localised cleaning test first. There are a variety of ways to clean natural stone. Either way, if you need to apply treatment agents for severe stains or sand the surface to remove etching, you need to test the method on a small area of the whole space.
It is important to do a test on a small area to find out if the chemical agents or specific methods are appropriate and to make sure it will not cause further damage to the stone.
Step 4
Now that you have determined which process and treatment to use, start with the following:
- Grinding
- Sanding, or
- Treating
Work methodically by working on small sections. Start on the area that is least soiled or damaged working towards the more heavily damaged parts. Heavily soiled areas may require performing the treatment and process repeatedly.
Step 5
Rinse off the surface thoroughly and quickly. Natural stones are inherently porous so dry the surface quickly. Polishing agents and sealants work more effectively when applied on a dry surface.
Use a damp cloth to rinse the surface area. If more water is needed, you can use a mop. You can apply water directly on the surface too as long as you wipe it dry straight away.
Step 6
When the stone surface is completely dry, apply a polishing agent and polish it thoroughly. Polish the surface once or twice a month to keep the stone surface clean, shiny, and radiant.
Step 7
Apply a natural stone sealant. You need a few hours to a day to let the sealant cure. Give the sealant enough time to cure for it to be effective.
The sealant should protect the surface of the stone for 6 months to a year. Apply a natural stone sealant at least once or twice a year.
Important Reminder:
When it comes to stone care, use only mild or natural agents to treat natural stone. Natural stones are porous and can easily react to chemicals.
Natural stones are great investments for your home. They can last for a long time given the proper care and maintenance. We highly recommend you use professional natural stone tile restoration services once or twice a year to help you give the best care for your investment.
Expert restorers will save you time, money, and headaches. They know exactly what to do for the various types of natural stone.
SLIQUE is a professional restoration company that has been servicing Sydney and neighboring areas and has a proven track record. When it comes to marble and natural stones, no one can match our quality and service.
Talk to our experts so we can help you restore the natural radiance of your dulling stone.
Please call us today on 02 9648 0395 or you can leave an inquiry on our contact page.
