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Stone care
July 5, 2024 In Stone care,Stone Floor Cleaning

Comparing DIY vs. Professional Stone Floor Cleaning

When it comes to maintaining stone floors, homeowners often debate whether to undertake the task themselves or hire a professional stone floor cleaning service. Both options have their merits and drawbacks in terms of costs, benefits, and results. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

DIY Stone Floor Cleaning

Costs: DIY cleaning can be less expensive upfront. You will need to purchase appropriate cleaners and possibly rent cleaning equipment, but these costs are generally lower than hiring professionals.

Benefits: DIY gives you control over the cleaning schedule and the products used, which is important if you have concerns about chemicals or are trying to reduce household expenses.

Results: The effectiveness of DIY cleaning depends on your knowledge and effort. Improper techniques or materials can damage stone floors, leading to costly repairs.

Risks: There’s a risk of using the wrong cleaning agents or equipment, which can etch or scratch the stone, possibly causing irreversible damage.

Professional Stone Floor Cleaning

Costs: Professional cleaning services charge more due to their expertise, commercial-grade equipment, and guarantee of quality. However, considering potential long-term savings from avoided damages, the cost can be justifiable.

Benefits: Professional services bring experience and access to advanced cleaning technologies and solutions tailored to specific types of stone. They can more effectively handle complex issues like deep stains, etching, and restoration.

Results: Typically, professionals achieve better, more durable results. Their methods often extend the life of stone floors and enhance their appearance through techniques like polishing and sealing.

Risks: The main risk involves choosing a less reputable service provider. Ensuring that the service has good reviews and proper credentials can mitigate this risk.

Deciding between DIY and professional stone floor cleaning service depends on your budget, the complexity of the job, and how much risk you’re willing to take on. For regular maintenance, DIY might be sufficient, but for deep cleaning, restoration, or when dealing with high-value stone, professional services are recommended. They not only ensure a thorough clean but also help maintain the stone’s beauty and structural integrity over time.

Posted by William Gardner
July 5, 2024 In Stone care,Stone Floor Cleaning

What to expect when you hire a Stone Floor Cleaning service

Hiring a professional stone floor cleaning service can transform the appearance of your home’s flooring and extend its lifespan. Understanding what to expect from this service will help you prepare for the process and ensure you get the most out of your investment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what typically happens when you engage a professional stone floor cleaning service.

Initial Consultation

1. Assessment: The first step involves a thorough assessment of your stone floors. A professional will visit your home to inspect the condition of the flooring, identify any specific issues such as stains, etching, or wear patterns, and determine the type of stone.

2. Recommendation: Based on the assessment, the service provider will recommend a tailored cleaning and maintenance plan. This will include the types of cleaning agents suitable for your stone type, the methods to be used, and any specific treatments needed for stains or damage.

Preparation

1. Scheduling: You will agree on a date and time for the cleaning that suits your schedule. Some services might require you to clear the area of furniture and other items, although many cleaning services can handle this for you.

2. Pre-Clean: In some cases, you may be advised to perform a light cleaning or clearing of debris before the professional team arrives. This helps in making the deep cleaning process more effective and efficient.

Cleaning Process

1. Cleaning Method: Professionals use a variety of methods to clean stone floors, including steam cleaning, scrubbing with specialized brushes, and applying chemical treatments designed for specific types of stone.

2. Focus on Detail: Grout lines and hard-to-reach areas receive special attention during professional cleaning. These areas are often where dirt and grime accumulate the most.

3. Drying and Finishing: After cleaning, the floor will be dried using high-power fans or natural ventilation, depending on the type of stone and the specific treatment used.

Post-Cleaning

1. Final Inspection: Once the floor is clean and dry, the professional will conduct a final inspection to ensure that all areas are thoroughly cleaned and any specific issues have been addressed.

2. Advice on Maintenance: You will receive advice on how to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the stone floors, including recommendations for daily care and periodic maintenance.

Hiring a professional stone floor cleaning service ensures that your flooring is handled with expertise and care, preserving its beauty and durability. With professional help, you can avoid the pitfalls of improper cleaning and enjoy pristine and impressive results.

Posted by William Gardner
July 5, 2024 In Limestone,Limestone Floor Cleaning,Stone care,Stone floor restoration

The do’s and don’ts of Limestone Floor Cleaning

Limestone flooring is a popular choice for both homes and businesses, prized for its natural beauty and durability. However, limestone is also a porous material that requires careful handling to maintain its appearance and integrity. Understanding the do’s and don’ts of limestone floor cleaning is essential to ensure your floors stay in pristine condition for years to come. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the care of your limestone floors.

Do: Use the Right Cleaning Products

  1. pH-Neutral Cleaners: Always use a pH-neutral cleaner when cleaning limestone. Acidic or highly alkaline products can etch the surface, causing permanent damage.
  2. Soft Mops and Cloths: Use soft mops, cloths, or sponges to clean limestone floors. Hard bristles or abrasive tools can scratch and wear down the limestone.

Don’t: Use Acidic Cleaning Solutions

  1. Avoid Vinegar and Lemon: Home remedies like vinegar or lemon juice might be great for other purposes, but they can severely damage limestone due to their acidic nature.
  2. No Ammonia or Bleach: Harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach can discolor limestone and weaken its structural integrity.

Do: Clean Spills Immediately

  1. Blot Spills: Limestone is particularly susceptible to staining. Clean spills promptly by blotting—never wiping as this can spread the spill. Use a damp cloth with a pH-neutral cleaner for best results.
  2. Regular Spot Cleaning: Address any dirty spots or stains immediately to prevent them from setting and becoming more difficult to remove.

Don’t: Let Stains Set

  1. Avoid Delay: Leaving spills, especially those from acidic substances like coffee, wine, and fruit juices, can permanently stain limestone floors.
  2. No Harsh Scrubbing: While it’s important to clean up spills quickly, harsh scrubbing can scratch the limestone. Always use gentle motions and suitable cleaning tools.

Do: Implement Preventative Measures

  1. Use Entrance Mats: Place mats at all entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and sand that may scratch the limestone.
  2. Furniture Pads: Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when items are moved across the floor.

Don’t: Overlook Regular Maintenance

  1. Skipping Regular Cleaning: Regular dusting and damp mopping are crucial to prevent dirt buildup that can scratch and dull the surface of the limestone.
  2. Limestone Sealing: Limestone should be sealed periodically to protect it from stains and wear. Check the sealer’s condition annually and reapply as needed.

Do: Seek Professional Help for Deep Cleaning

  1. Annual Check-ups: Even with regular maintenance, having a professional evaluate and deep clean your limestone floors annually can help maintain their beauty and longevity.
  2. Expert Restoration: For heavily stained or damaged floors, professionals can provide limestone restoration services that are often more effective and safer than DIY methods.

Caring for limestone floors doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure your limestone remains beautiful and functional for many years. Regular maintenance, using the right cleaning products, and timely intervention for spills and stains are key. If you’re unsure about how to handle a specific issue, or if your floors are in need of professional attention, don’t hesitate to call in the experts, especially if you are based in areas like Gloucestershire or the Cotswolds. Remember, proper care today means lasting beauty and durability for your limestone floors tomorrow

Posted by William Gardner
July 5, 2024 In Porcelain,Stone care,Stone floor restoration

A guide to Porcelain Floor Restoration

Porcelain floors are a popular choice for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance. However, over time, even the most well-maintained porcelain floors can lose their lustre and develop issues such as stains, scratches, and dullness. Restoring porcelain floors is a process that can rejuvenate their appearance and extend their lifespan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in porcelain floor restoration, from initial assessment to achieving a like-new finish.

Assessing the Condition of Your Porcelain Floor

The first step in the restoration process is to assess the condition of your porcelain floor. This involves:

  1. Inspecting for Damage: Look for visible signs of wear and tear, including scratches, chips, cracks, and stains. Note any areas that appear more damaged than others.
  2. Evaluating the Finish: Determine whether the finish of the tiles has become dull or discoloured. Polished porcelain tiles, in particular, can lose their shine over time.
  3. Checking the Grout: Inspect the grout lines for dirt, discolouration, or damage. Grout can significantly impact the overall appearance of your floor.

Cleaning and Preparing the Floor

Proper cleaning is essential before any restoration work begins. Follow these steps to prepare your floor:

  1. Remove Surface Dirt: Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents scratching during the cleaning process.
  2. Deep Clean the Tiles: Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for porcelain floors. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the tiles. Mop the floor thoroughly, ensuring all dirt and grime are removed.
  3. Clean the Grout Lines: Use a grout cleaner and a stiff brush to scrub the grout lines. For stubborn stains, consider using a steam cleaner.

Repairing Chips and Cracks

Addressing chips and cracks is crucial to restoring the appearance and integrity of your porcelain floor:

  1. Small Chips: For minor chips, use a porcelain repair kit that matches the colour of your tiles. Apply the repair compound as directed, and smooth it out to blend with the surrounding tile.
  2. Cracks: Fill small cracks with an epoxy or resin filler designed for porcelain. For larger cracks or extensive damage, it may be necessary to replace the affected tiles.

Polishing and Refinishing

Polishing is a key step in restoring the shine of polished porcelain tiles:

  1. Polishing Compound: Apply a porcelain polishing compound with a soft cloth or a polishing machine. Work in small sections, using circular motions to achieve an even finish.
  2. Buffing: Buff the floor with a clean, dry cloth or a buffing pad to remove any residue and enhance the shine. For best results, use a high-speed buffer.
  3. Sealing: If your tiles have a polished finish, apply a porcelain sealer to protect the surface and maintain the shine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.

Sealing the Grout

Sealing the grout is an important step to prevent future stains and maintain a clean appearance:

  1. Choose the Right Sealer: Select a penetrating grout sealer that is compatible with porcelain tiles. Avoid topical sealers, as they can create a glossy finish that may not match your tiles.
  2. Apply the Sealer: Use a small brush or applicator bottle to apply the sealer evenly along the grout lines. Wipe away any excess sealer from the tiles to prevent residue buildup.
  3. Allow to Cure: Let the sealer cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes 24 to 48 hours.

Regular Maintenance Tips

To keep your restored porcelain floor looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:

  1. Routine Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris. Mop with a pH-neutral cleaner as needed.
  2. Protective Measures: Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches. Place doormats at entryways to reduce dirt and grit on the floor.
  3. Spot Cleaning: Promptly clean up spills to prevent stains. Use a damp cloth and a mild cleaner for spot cleaning.
  4. Periodic Sealing: Reapply grout sealer every 12 to 18 months to maintain protection.

Restoring porcelain floors involves a combination of thorough cleaning, repairing damage, polishing, and sealing. By following these steps, you can rejuvenate your porcelain tiles and enjoy their beauty and durability for many years. Whether you choose to tackle the restoration yourself or hire a professional service, the effort will be well worth it when you see the renewed shine and elegance of your floors.

For those in the Gloucestershire and Cotswolds area seeking expert porcelain floor restoration services, our team of professionals is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us bring your porcelain floors back to life.

Posted by William Gardner
July 5, 2024 In Sandstone,Sandstone,Sandstone Floor Cleaning,Stone care,Stone floor restoration

The Essential Guide to Sandstone Floor Cleaning

Sandstone floors are a popular choice for many homes due to their natural beauty and durability. However, maintaining their pristine appearance requires proper care and cleaning. In this guide, we will cover the best techniques and practices for sandstone floor cleaning, ensuring they remain an elegant feature of your home for years to come.

Understanding Sandstone

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-sized mineral particles. Its porous nature means it can easily absorb liquids and stains, making regular maintenance crucial. Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics of sandstone to avoid damaging this natural material.

Daily Maintenance Tips

  1. Sweeping and Vacuuming: Sandstone floors should be swept or vacuumed daily to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a brush attachment to avoid scratching the surface.
  2. Door Mats and Rugs: Place door mats at entryways to minimise the amount of dirt and grit tracked onto the floor. Area rugs in high-traffic areas can also help protect the sandstone from wear and tear.

Regular Cleaning

  1. Choosing the Right Cleaner: Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners as they can etch and damage the surface of the sandstone.
  2. Mopping: Mop the floor with a damp (not wet) mop. Too much water can penetrate the stone and cause discolouration or damage. Rinse the mop frequently and change the water as needed to avoid spreading dirt.
  3. Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately. Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth and then clean the area with a pH-neutral cleaner. For oil-based stains, a poultice made from baking soda and water can be applied to draw out the oil.

Deep Cleaning

Occasionally, sandstone floors will require a deeper clean to remove embedded dirt and grime.

  1. Pre-Treating Stains: Before deep cleaning, pre-treat any noticeable stains. Apply a poultice or a specialised stone stain remover, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Steam Cleaning: A steam cleaner can be used for a thorough clean. Ensure the steam cleaner is suitable for use on natural stone. Avoid excessive heat and moisture, as this can damage the sandstone.
  3. Scrubbing: For areas with heavy soiling, gently scrub the surface with a soft brush and a pH-neutral cleaner. Be careful not to use abrasive pads or brushes, which can scratch the stone.

Sealing Sandstone Floors

Sealing your sandstone floors is a critical step in protecting them from stains and moisture.

  1. Choosing a Sealer: Select a high-quality, penetrating sealer specifically designed for natural stone. A good sealer will not alter the appearance of the sandstone but will provide an effective barrier against stains.
  2. Application: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the sealer. Typically, this involves cleaning the floor thoroughly, allowing it to dry completely, and then applying the sealer evenly with a clean cloth or applicator.
  3. Frequency: Re-seal your sandstone floors every 1-2 years, depending on the level of traffic and wear. High-traffic areas may require more frequent sealing.

Professional Cleaning and Maintenance

While regular cleaning can keep your sandstone floors in good condition, professional cleaning services offer several benefits:

  1. Expertise: Professional cleaners have the knowledge and experience to handle sandstone floors correctly, using the appropriate techniques and products.
  2. Advanced Equipment: Professionals use specialised equipment that can achieve a deeper clean than standard home cleaning tools.
  3. Restoration Services: In addition to cleaning, professionals can offer restoration services such as polishing and repairing chips or cracks, helping to maintain the floor’s natural beauty.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your sandstone floors looking their best. By following these techniques and best practices, you can ensure your floors remain a stunning feature in your home for years to come. Regular cleaning, spot treating stains, deep cleaning, and sealing are all part of a comprehensive maintenance routine that will protect and preserve your sandstone floors.

If you’re in the Gloucestershire and Cotswolds area and need professional sandstone floor cleaning services, contact us today. Our team of experts is ready to help you maintain the beauty and integrity of your sandstone flooring, ensuring it stays in top condition for many years.

Posted by William Gardner
July 5, 2024 In Porcelain,Porcelain Floor Cleaning,Stone care,Stone floor restoration

Professional Porcelain Floor Cleaning Services: What to Expect

Porcelain floors are renowned for their durability, elegance, and ease of maintenance. However, to keep them looking their best, periodic professional cleaning is essential. This post will delve into the benefits of hiring professional porcelain floor cleaning services and what you can expect from such a service.

Why Choose Professional Cleaning for Your Porcelain Floors?

  1. Expertise and Experience: Professional cleaners possess the knowledge and skills required to handle various types of porcelain tiles. They understand the intricacies involved in cleaning different finishes, whether they are polished, matte, or textured.
  2. Advanced Equipment: Professionals use state-of-the-art equipment that can achieve a deeper clean than regular household tools. This includes high-powered vacuum cleaners, specialised brushes, and industrial-grade steam cleaners designed to remove ingrained dirt and grime.
  3. Specialised Cleaning Solutions: Professional cleaning services have access to high-quality, specialised cleaning products that are safe for porcelain tiles. These products are effective at removing stains, dirt, and bacteria without damaging the surface of the tiles.
  4. Time and Effort Saving: Cleaning porcelain floors thoroughly can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Hiring professionals allows you to save time and effort, ensuring your floors receive the best possible care without you having to lift a finger.
  5. Longevity and Preservation: Regular professional cleaning helps maintain the integrity and appearance of your porcelain floors, prolonging their lifespan. Professionals can also provide advice on how to care for your floors between cleaning sessions.

What to Expect from Professional Porcelain Floor Cleaning Services

When you hire a professional cleaning service, you can expect a thorough and efficient process designed to leave your porcelain floors spotless and well-maintained. Here’s what typically happens during a professional cleaning session:

  1. Initial Assessment: The process usually begins with an initial assessment of your floors. The cleaning team will inspect the condition of the tiles and grout, identify any problem areas, and determine the most suitable cleaning approach.
  2. Pre-Cleaning Preparation: Furniture and other items will be carefully moved to provide clear access to the floors. Protective measures may be put in place to safeguard adjacent surfaces and belongings.
  3. Dry Cleaning: A high-powered vacuum cleaner is used to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris from the surface of the tiles and grout lines. This step is crucial to prevent scratching during the wet cleaning process.
  4. Application of Cleaning Solution: A specialised cleaning solution is applied to the tiles and grout. This solution is designed to break down and lift dirt, stains, and grease without damaging the porcelain surface.
  5. Deep Cleaning: Using advanced equipment, such as steam cleaners or rotary scrubbers, the professionals will deep clean the tiles and grout. This step ensures the removal of stubborn stains and embedded dirt, restoring the tiles’ original appearance.
  6. Rinsing and Drying: The floor is thoroughly rinsed to remove any remaining cleaning solution and dirt. High-powered dryers or fans may be used to ensure the floor is completely dry before replacing furniture and other items.
  7. Sealing (if applicable): In some cases, a sealant may be applied to the grout lines to protect them from future stains and moisture. This step is particularly useful in high-traffic areas or kitchens and bathrooms where spills are common.
  8. Final Inspection and Touch-Ups: The cleaning team will perform a final inspection to ensure all areas have been thoroughly cleaned. Any missed spots or stubborn stains will be addressed during this stage.

Professional porcelain floor cleaning services offer a comprehensive solution to keep your floors looking pristine and well-maintained. With their expertise, advanced equipment, and specialised cleaning products, professional cleaners can deliver results that are difficult to achieve with regular household cleaning methods. By investing in professional cleaning, you not only enhance the appearance of your porcelain floors but also extend their lifespan, ensuring they remain a beautiful and functional part of your home for years to come.

If you’re in the Gloucestershire and Cotswolds area and looking for expert porcelain floor cleaning services, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Let our professionals take care of your floors, so you can enjoy the benefits of a spotless and well-maintained home.

Posted by William Gardner
December 21, 2020 In Limestone,Sealing natural stone,Stone care,Stone floor restoration , , , , , , , , , ,

Limestone floor refurbishment in Kencot, Lechlade

Limestone floor refurbishment

Upon arrive to undertake the Limestone floor refurbishment is was obvious that the Limestone throughout the ground floor had lost its shine & protective layer.

To start the Limestone floor refurbishment, we started by removing the dirt, grime & remains of the original seal and deep cleaned the stone & grout.

This Limestone floor and grout had suffered a small area of etching damage from a oven cleaner spill. We started by removing the spoiled stone, neutralised the acid, then honed & polished the etching so that it blended with the surrounding floor tiles.

The next stage of the process is to apply a sealer into the stone and grout which enables the floor to become water repellent once again. The final stage in process was to apply a low shine polish which enabled the natural features of the limestone floor to be brought out.

Posted by Bruce Swait
December 15, 2020 In Marble,Sealing natural stone,Stone care,Stone floor restoration , , , , , , , , , , ,

Marble floor restoration – Polished white Carrara marble, professionally restored & sealed

Marble floor restoration, our team were in Clifton village, Bristol today restoring a marble floor.

The Carrara marble tiles were installed 3 years ago & had received no professional servicing & the original seal had failed. The main use area of the floor was discoloured, a little scratched & had lost its natural shine.

Marble floor restoration is something to be tackled by professionals and involves an in depth process. After a full chemical strip & deep clean. 4 courses of Italian marble polishing diamonds restored the surface to a full natural polished shine. We then applied a high specification professional sealing product to help with the on going maintenance.

Marble floor restoration example photo

Do get in contact with us if you have a marble floor that could do with a little professional restoring, sealing or polishing.

Posted by Bruce Swait
October 1, 2020 In Flagstones,Sealing natural stone,Stone care,Stone floor restoration , , , , , , ,

Historic Cotswold flagstone restoration

Today’s flagstone restoration in Painswick was a great success!

“Thank you for doing a great job cleaning up our flagstone floor as well as your friendly service.”

Flagstone restoration before and after pictures

These historic Cotswold flagstones have been re-layed around 20 years ago but not properly cleaned or restored before installation.

The flagstone restoration process is quite involved. After the initial strip and hone we were able to assess the damage. We set to work removing a layer of bitumen and cement residues from a few of the flagstones, while making sure we preserve the warm surface and natural patina of the old flagstones.

Once the stones were in good order we applied a coat of penetrating sealer to block in the Limestone’s natural porosity.

The final process was to apply a thin layer of Italian wax and burnish to subtle warm sheen.

Posted by Bruce Swait
September 11, 2020 In Sealing natural stone,Stone care,Travertine , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tumbled travertine kitchen floor restoration

Travertine floor restoration, we’re really pleased to receive words from our client today in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire:

“Thank you so much, Bruce. You arrived exactly on time this morning and worked cleanly and efficiently. I was worried about the dust that may be caused by the Travertine floor restoration process but there was no need to worry as there was absolutely no mess! My floor looks so good and I am really pleased with the result. Would definitely recommend you to anyone with a tired looking stone floor. Marvellous!”

The floor had been installed well over 10 years ago. Higher areas of use around the kitchen island had suffered from ground in dirt and soiling that wasn’t removed with standard maintenance cleaning. In other areas the natural holes that occur in travertine had opened up over time.

We were able to concentrate on these problem areas and continue the surface throughout the whole installation cleaning deep into the stone and sealing and polishing it to give a consistent finish throughout

Travertine floor restoration after picture
Posted by Bruce Swait
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