Terrazzo floors are cleaned very similarly to marble floors. (Read more about marble floor cleaning) Terrazzo flooring combines marble chips and concrete to create a flooring style that became popular during the Roman era. Like marble, terrazzo flooring is similar in price, rather delicate, and require a considerable amount of maintenance. Here are 5 mistakes that many people make when cleaning their terrazzo floors.
Terrazzo Floors are Not Granite
Granite and marble look alike and are often confused for one another. The same is true for granite and terrazzo flooring. This can be a crucial mistake when choosing the proper cleaning method. Terrazzo is much softer than granite and marble, which means that terrazzo floors are more prone to staining and wear from foot traffic.
Never Use Vinegar
Vinegar is the “go-to” cleaner by many people since it is a non-toxic natural cleaner. Although vinegar is a great cleaner for many flooring types, it should NEVER be used on your terrazzo flooring. Vinegar’s acidic properties can dull your terrazzo floor, and in some cases, surface etching. Once the surface of your terrazzo flooring has been compromised, it will require a complete restoration to bring your terrazzo flooring back to it beauty and shine.
The KISS Method
“Keep It Simple, Stupid” is a great cleaning technique for your terrazzo flooring. Your terrazzo floor has a thin layer of wax to maintain its shine. Using abrasive cleaners will remove this wax, thus reducing the luster on your terrazzo flooring. The best, and most simple way to clean your terrazzo flooring is when a dry, soft cloth that is free of lint and debris. For spills, wipe them away in the same manner, do not scrub, use chemicals or water.
No Hard Scrubbing With Abrasive Materials Allowed
For more difficult spills or stains, never use a harsh scrubbing pad, steel wool, or abrasive cleaner, this will only further damage the terrazzo flooring. In addition to scratching, or etching the terrazzo flooring, you will also remove the wax on the top layer of the terrazzo floor. Bizaillion Floors, LLC recommends using a chamois type cloth since it will not only dry your floor quickly, but it buffs the terrazzo at the same time.
Clean Quickly
Cleaning up a spill will reduce the potential for staining and removal of the terrazzo floor wax. Do not let the spill sit for any extended period of time is a great way to keep your terrazzo flooring’s shine lasting longer and reduce restoration costs in the long run.
Inspired by www.doityourself.com
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