Six tips for maintaining natural stone flooring

Natural stone flooring is a stunning feature that is becoming more and more popular among homeowners. But to get as much as possible out of your stone flooring it is important to care for and maintain the surface. If you are new to stone floors – either because you have just had them installed, or because you have just bought a new home with them – it can be somewhat daunting to face the challenge.

It is actually simpler than it seems, but it is vital to gather as much information as possible first. Here are six great tips that can help make it much easier for you to maintain and manage your stone floors, ensuring a long lifespan and a stunning appearance.

1. Understand different types of stone

Many homeowners assume that cleaning all forms of stone tile is the same. So, if you have had natural stone floors before and are having new ones installed (or have just bought a new property) you might assume that the maintenance that you need to carry out on the flooring is the same. However, each type of stone using in flooring is different.

Take, for example, the fact that that marble floors are far more easily damaged by acidic substances that some other forms of natural stone. Additionally, the increasingly popular travertine has honeycomb stricture where new holes form all the time. Check what type of stone you are having installed and learn about its specific traits in order to keep it properly maintained.

2. Regularly sweep away dirt

It really is important to get into a proper routine with sweeping your natural stone floors. Dirt, dust and grit can be very bad for natural stone and can easily damage the material. This is especially true of polished floors which can be very easily scratched by dirt. It is important hear to note that if your tiles have been fitted incorrectly this can create serious problems with dirt and dust, as it can get trapped in the tiles. If you are having tiles fitted it is always best work with business holding extensive experience in working with stone tiles such as The Tile Emporium.

3. Choose a good stone cleaner

Make sure when you come to clean your floor that you are using an appropriate floor cleaner. Much of this will depend on the type of stone that your floor is made from, so make sure you understand this what kind of stone you have. Using a cleaner than works perfectly on a slate floor could potentially damage or alter other stones such as marble, granite or limestone.

It is always best to consult with experts about the specific type of stone that you have. This can ensure that you keep your stone for unnecessary damage.

4. Wipe with a microfibre mop

It is always a good idea to use microfibre cloths. They are generally far more effective at picking up dirt and soil that gets onto your floor. Many stone floor owners still clean using cotton mops. However, this can be both inefficient and unhygienic. It can also leave unpleasant dark grout lines. Microfibre cloths pick up the dirt and hold it within its fibres so you never spread more dirt around.

5. Have entrance mats

One very good idea if you have stone flooring is to have mats placed down. Of course, one of the best defences against substances marking or damaging your stone floor is to stop them from getting on it in the first place. Place at mat at every entrance from other floor types onto the natural stone. It’s just a simple thing that can make a huge difference to the on-going maintenance of the stone.

6. Get advice if you need it

Ultimately whether you are new to stone floors or new to a specific type of stone, it is always best to take advice whenever you can. If you are having the floor installed it is definitely worth having a discussion with the installers to take their opinions on care. They will understand the specific stone and will have feedback from previous clients on successful techniques.