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Terrazzo Floor Cleaning Tips
What is terrazzo flooring? Terrazzo is a mixture of Marble and
Portland cement mixed together; two parts Marble to one part cement.
When it is installed, Marble chips are sprinkled on the surface so that
a majority of the surface is Marble. Terrazzo was most popular during
the 50’s – 70’s but is making its come back over the past few years.
To be able to clean the terrazzo floor you have to understand
what it is made of. The Marble part of its surface is almost non-absorbent;
however the cement binder is very porous and absorbs stains easily.
This is the part of the flooring which will cause you the most grief.
In older floors this seems to be the biggest problem; however if you
are having a new terrazzo floor installed, the last step of installation
is to apply a penetrating sealant approved for terrazzo. This sealant
will be absorbed by the concrete pores, greatly reducing the absorption
quality of the concrete.
If you have an existing terrazzo floor that is stained, you will
have to use several steps to restore it. First you will want to remove
the existing build-up with a plastic scraper (do not use metal scrapers)
Apply your floor cleaner over the surface with a mop. For stubborn yellow
stains, use a soft-bristled scrub brush. You will need to rinse the
floor with a mop and water, rinsing the mop often. Be sure to rinse
well so that the floor can be sealed. Once your floor is rinsed, then
dry, apply an approved sealant with a roll paint brush. Allow plenty
of time to dry.
If you have new terrazzo being installed, most of the work is
done for you. With today’s products, the sealants will provide a beautiful
and long lasting look for your floors. Terrazzo is easy to clean as
long as the installation process was performed
according to the installation instructions.
It is important to keep sand and debris off the floor. Sweep
the floor often as this debris acts as an abrasive and can damage the
floor. Use a cleaner designed or approved for a terrazzo floor. Wet
mop the floor allowing the cleaner to remain on the floor for several
minutes. For the best results, rinse the cleaner off the floor thoroughly.
You may need to change your rinse water a few times. Once the cleaner
has been removed towel dry the floor to prevent water streak marks from
appearing and to restore the floors natural shine. Do not use any types
of wax on your terrazzo floor.
As with any hard flooring you can use carpet mats to trap dirt
from coming into your home onto your clean terrazzo floor. You may also
want to place carpet rugs in high traffic areas and high use areas such
as your kitchen. With daily sweeping, and weekly mopping, your terrazzo
floor will look as new as the day it was installed.
Author Vincent Platania represents the Fuller Brush Company.Fuller Brush
has been in business since 1906, and offers safe, environmentally friendly
products for keeping your home and your body clean. Visit
www.fuller-brush-products.com
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