Natural countertop and floor coverings such as marble, limestone, slate or moss rock have increased in use in building and design. These surfaces require maintenance to ensure their natural look and beauty. This maintenance includes cleaning, stripping and sealing performed by a professional trained in the care of stone and other natural surfaces.
The first step is for the professional to determine the most efficient and safest cleaning method for the surface. Should a more abrasive or a gentler method be used? Does a topical coating need to be removed? Now the prep work begins to protect furnishing and the surrounding areas. This may require application of painters tape to protect wood trim, covering nearby carpet, or carefully moving furniture out of the way.
If necessary and appropriate, floors are scrubbed with abrasive brushes to remove staining and traffic patterns. Cryo Cleaning, or ice blasting, is an environmentally friendly and chemical free method sometimes used to remove topical coatings or construction adhesives. When faced with stubborn stains, the technician may use a special poultice to penetrate below the surface and remove the stains. The floor is also pretreated and extraction cleaned with high pressure and hot water to reach pores and small crevices.
Stone and tile are then sealed with impregnating sealers or topical coating to protect against future damage. When the sealer is applied, the technician begins by applying it around the edges with a brush. This ensures that the sealer is not misapplied onto surrounding wood trim or other surfaces. A sprayer is used in the center to get an even coat of sealer.
Professional cleaning and maintenance using these methods can protect these surfaces, and even restore their natural beauty if they’ve been neglected.
Matt Monica, VP of Operations and Technical Advisor of SteamMaster is available to answer any questions on Hard Surface cleaning. Please email matt@steammaster.com or call 970-827-5555.
SteamMaster Restoration and Cleaning Journal 