Granite floors exude elegance and luxury, adding an air of sophistication to any space they grace. However, to preserve their lustrous surface for many years, proper care must be taken about cleaning and maintenance practices. This comprehensive guide on maintaining granite flooring explores this subject in depth.
Understanding Granite Floors
Granite is an enduring natural stone known for its durability and aesthetic beauty, making it a sought-after flooring material in homes and offices. Yet its hardiness cannot shield granite from damage; regular upkeep must be provided to protect its beauty.
Preventative Measures
Proper prevention is vital to prolonging the longevity of granite floors. Doormats at entrances will protect from dirt and debris being tracked onto your surface, while furniture pads protect them from scratches caused by heavy furniture.
Daily Maintenance
A daily sweep or vacuum of granite floors is crucial to remove dirt and debris, using either a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to avoid scratching its surface and keep its shine. Doing this prevents accumulations of grime that dull its appearance over time.
Cleaning Granite Floors
When maintaining granite floors, selecting an effective cleaning solution is paramount. Avoid harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scrubbers that could harm its surface; opt for pH-neutral cleaners for granite surfaces instead. Dilute according to its manufacturer's directions before testing on an inconspicuous area and applying it over the entire floor surface.
The Cleaning Process /Procedure
1. First, vacuum or sweep your floor thoroughly to collect loose dirt and debris.
2. Dilute the pH-neutral cleaner in warm water according to manufacturer specifications for maximum effectiveness.
3. Dip a clean microfiber mop or soft cloth into this solution before wringing out excess liquid before mopping or wiping off the surface with a cloth mop.
4. Gently mop the granite floor using small sections at a time to ensure thorough cleaning. 5. Pay special attention to areas with stubborn stains or spills by gently scrubbing with an angle brush in circular motions until all dirt has been lifted from its position.
6. Once all surfaces have been thoroughly scrubbed, use a mop or cloth to rinse away all remaining dirt before going back over it again for any residue removal.
7. Allow time for air drying before walking on or replacing furniture on it.
Even with your best efforts in protecting granite floors from spills and stains, they may still surface. Cleaning up spills is crucial to stop them from seeping into the stone and causing permanent damage. For oil-based spills such as grease or food debris, apply a poultice of baking soda and water before leaving it to sit overnight. Then, carefully scrape it off and rinse it off with water afterwards. When dealing with water-based spills such as wine or juice spills on floors, using a neutral cleaner/water cleaner solution is best.
Sealing Granite Floors
Sealing granite floors is essential to prolong their longevity, helping prevent staining and moisture penetration that would erode them over time. Apply high-quality sealers annually or as suggested by their manufacturers; be sure to follow any specific instructions provided when doing so, such as making sure surfaces are dehydrated before application; allow enough time for it to penetrate before buffing it away with a clean cloth after its set time has expired.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, granite floors can retain their beauty for generations. By following the tips presented herein, you can keep them pristine for many years ahead. Invest your time and energy in regular cleaning and preventive maintenance efforts, and your investment will pay dividends by creating floors that continue to add style and charm to any space they adorn.
Shree Balaji Marble, one of the popular granite suppliers in Kolkata, sells various types of granite tiles for your floor. Visit their website now and adorn your house with a new polished look.
Read our other blog here - https://shreebalajimarbles.com/best-for-flooring-marble-granite-tiles/
