Tips For Cleaning Marble Flooring
Marble is a metamorphic rock resulting from the metamorphism
of limestone. Metamorphism can be defined as the solid state recrystallisation
of pre-existing rocks due to changes in heat and/or pressure and/or
introduction of fluids. This metamorphic process causes a complete recrystallization
of the original rock into an interlocking mosaic of calcite and/or dolomite
crystals.
What does this mean to the Marble floor owner? Marble is one
of the softest stone flooring products on today's market, however it
is one of the most popular choices due to its natural beauty. Marble
is highly porous. So it is very easily etched by acids such as orange
juice, tomatoes juice, and vinegar.
Taking Care of it Right Away
The first step in maintaining and cleaning your Marble floors
is “wipe it up immediately”. This is so important with Marble floors
as salt dissolves and pits Marble and acids will etch Marble. Any liquids
or solids which contain salt or acids are your Marble flooring’s worst
enemy. So if you spill it, wipe it up immediately with warm water, followed
by drying the surface with a soft cloth. To further protect your Marble
flooring, it is recommended that you use small carpet rugs at any entrance
and around sinks as these rugs will also assist in trapping soil, dirt,
water or any ice-melting salts brought into your home.
Maintaining the Beauty
To maintain the beauty of your Marble floors, weekly maintenance
should include cleaning with a damp mop and then drying the surface
with a soft cloth or chamois. Drying the surface will bring back its
natural shine. It will also avoid any water stains. This is very common
on Marble floors. Always dry your Marble floors with a soft cloth. Use
a neutral, non-abrasive cleaner to ensure all spots or stains are removed
once per month. Never use vinegar to clean Marble flooring as it will
destroy
the finish.
It is very important to dry your Marble floors after each cleaning
with a soft or chamois cloth. To further enhance the beauty of your
Marble floors you will want to polish or wax them. Using a wax designed
for no wax floors is recommended. There are aloes products which are
safe for Marble flooring, designed to mop and shine in one step, saving
the home owner valuable time.
To Seal or Not to Seal?
Unlike most stone flooring, professional’s do not recommend
sealing a Marble floor. This will take away from it’s natural finish.
The sealer can become dulled and scratch and will have to be professionally
stripped. It is also recommended that for any set in stains, chips,
or pits, to have a professional to handle these problems. Your Marble
floors are one of the softest stone floors available. Your Marble flooring
also probably came with a huge price tag. The weekly care and maintenance
is most important step in maintaining the natural beauty of your Marble
floor. The beauty of Marble being the reason for your purchase in the
first place can be easily maintained.
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
