Step 1: Identifying Different Types of Stone
Maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of stone floors is crucial to their longevity.
Stone floors have a variety of issues for Property Managers. However, you can make informed decisions when choosing KCR services if you understand the different types of stone and learn about their specific care requirements. And taking photos of your property, especially in high traffic areas, can help you zoom in on damaged or dirty stone. Remember, in addition to inspecting your floor in person with you, we can look over these photos to discuss the best refinishing solution.
Granite
Granite is a hard, granular stone with a speckled appearance due to its mineral composition. It comes in various colors, including black, white, pink, and gray.
Look for a coarse-grained texture and visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica.
Marble
Marble is 2-3 times softer than granite so the stone is more susceptible to wear, scratches and etching. This stone is known for its veined patterns and smooth, polished surface. It typically comes in shades of white, gray, and black, but can also be found in green, pink, and yellow.
You will see a smooth, glossy finish and distinctive veining patterns.
Limestone
Limestone is only slightly softer than marble and has the same susceptibility to wear, scratches and etching. It is wise to seal limestone when used in interior settings. This stone is a sedimentary rock with a more uniform texture and color, often found in shades of beige, gray, and brown.
You will notice a softer texture and the presence of fossilized remains. [Did you know…? Here is a fascinating article about Kansas City’s limestone caves!]
Travertine
Travertine is a type of limestone that has similar susceptibility to wear and scratches, however travertine is more porous than limestone and should be regularly sealed when used inside. This stone has a fibrous or concentric appearance and is usually found in earthy tones like cream, tan, and rust. You will identify it by its porous surface and natural pits and holes.
Step 2: Stone Floors & Common Issues
- Stains and Discoloration: Stone floors can easily get stained from spills like coffee, wine, or even water. But discoloration can also occur due to improper cleaning methods or the use of harsh chemicals. This is a very common stone floor issue.
- Cracks and Chips: Heavy objects being dropped or dragged across the floor can cause cracks and chips. Often these can range from minor surface damage to deeper, more serious issues that affect the integrity of the stone.
- Etching: This appears as dull spots on the stone’s surface and is caused by acidic substances. For example, lemon juice or vinegar coming into contact with the stone eats away at its surface.
- Efflorescence: This is a white, powdery substance that appears on the surface of the stone, and it occurs when water carrying soluble salts evaporates and leaves the salts behind. Therefore, this issue is common in areas with high moisture.
- Dirty Grout: In commercial settings, grout can become dirty and discolored due to spills and high foot traffic. As a result, this not only looks bad but can also harbor bacteria and unpleasant odors. This stone floor issue can be a health hazard.
Granite, marble, limestone and travertine are examples of hard floor surfaces that should be professionally polished at least once a year in addition to regular cleaning.
Polishing should be scheduled on a more frequent basis if your floors endure high traffic.
Stone floor restoration services from KCR provide a deep cleaning to remove soil and debris from high traffic areas.
Our comprehensive offerings also include polishing, refinishing, and sealing applications. Look at these beautiful results!
Step 3: KCR services provide:
- Enhanced Appearance: Bring out the natural beauty and color of the stone. A professional polishing can reverse many stone floor issues.
- Increased Durability: Strengthen the surface of the stone to make it more resistant to scratches & stains.
- Easier Maintenance: A polished stone floor is easier to maintain. The smooth surface prevents dirt and grime from sticking, making regular cleaning more effective.
- Stain Resistance: Sealing the stone can reduce its porosity and make it less susceptible to staining.
The team of experts at KCR will talk with you to determine if your floors require a polishing service. Please contact us by phone or email or consider booking a Lunch & Learn meeting at your property for a short conversation [we’ll bring the lunch]!