Known for its natural elegance and durability, tiled marble flooring is a popular choice in both commercial and residential applications. It makes an especially practical flooring option for kitchens, bathrooms, and foyers in homes. Whether you've just purchased a home with marble flooring or are thinking about having marble tile installed at your current home, it's important to educate yourself on how to care for this type of tile. After all, while marble flooring is relatively low-maintenance, there are still some common mistakes you'll want to avoid.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Natural marble contains a substance known as calcium carbonate, which is harmless on its own. However, when calcium carbonate comes into contact with acids, a chemical reaction occurs that can eat away at the stone itself. This is one of many reasons why it is so important to purchase a floor cleaner that is specifically formulated for use on marble and other natural stone. Even when using a specialty floor cleaner for the first time, it's a good idea to spot-test the cleaner in a small area to make sure there is no discoloration or other damage to your floor.
And speaking of acids, be careful to avoid spills of acidic liquids on your marble floors--especially if you have marble tile in your kitchen. Some common examples of acidic liquids include vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato juice.
Failing to Seal Stone as Needed
Like any natural stone, marble is slightly porous, meaning it will soak up liquids that are spilled on it. The good news is that, by applying a simple stone sealer to your tile, you can protect it from absorbing liquids that could cause staining and other damage over time. Generally, marble tile is sealed as soon as it is installed, but you may need to reseal it regularly.
Not Cleaning Spills Right Away
When spills do occur on your marble tile, be sure to clean them up right away. Marble is porous and can be prone to damage when it absorbs liquids. Even when properly sealed, a large spill could eventually penetrate the stone if left to sit for long enough.
A little care goes a very long way when it comes to keeping your marble tile flooring looking its best. With proper maintenance, you can expect your marble flooring to last for many decades or even a lifetime to come.
To learn more, contact a company that offers marble flooring.
The right flooring for your home will look beautiful, be comfortable against your feet, and stand up against heavy everyday use. However, people don't always think about the best things for their home, which can create issues in the long run. From flooring that doesn't wear well to problems with design and detail, the right flooring matters. Fortunately, by working with a flooring professional, you can identify the best products for your home and enjoy them every single day. Find out more about flooring and how it can help you to improve your place every single day. Read more on this website.