How To Clean A Terrazzo Floor?

Last Updated on October 15, 2023 by admin

Terrazzo is a flooring material composed of marble, quartz, granite, glass, and other materials set in a cement or epoxy binder. It is a highly durable form of flooring that can be found in public places and commercial and residential settings. Terrazzo has been used for centuries to create decorative and functional flooring surfaces. To keep a terrazzo floor looking beautiful, it is essential to care for and clean the surface regularly and adequately.

Things Needed For Cleaning

• Water
• Cleaner
• Mop
• Broom
• Dish soap
• Spray bottle
• Towel

  

How To Clean A Terrazzo Floor?

Sweep the floor to remove dust: Sweep or vacuum the floor with a soft-bristled broom. You can also use a dry mop to reduce the buildup of excess dirt and dust, especially in high-traffic areas.

Mix dish soap and water in a spray bottle: Dissolve 1 to 2 tablespoons of dish soap in a gallon of warm water. Make sure there are no visible suds, as they could leave residue on the terrazzo surface.

Spray dirty spots on the terrazzo floor: Spray the soapy solution onto the dirty spots on your terrazzo floor. Leave it on for a few minutes before you start scrubbing.

Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes: Give the cleaner a few minutes to break down any dirt and grime that has built up on your terrazzo floor. This will make it easier for you to scrub away any residue without damaging the surface.

Wipe the spot with a damp towel: After a few minutes, use a clean damp towel to wipe the spot. Make sure to use gentle motions and not too much pressure to avoid damaging the terrazzo.

Mop the floor: Once all the spots have been cleaned, mop the entire floor with a damp mop. Use a terrazzo-specific cleaner, mild detergent, and warm water to avoid damaging the surface.

Rinse the floor with water: After mopping, use clean water to rinse the floor. This will help remove any residue of soap and dirt left behind. Dry the floor with a soft towel or cloth before walking on it.

Buff the floor to shine: Use a terrazzo floor polisher to buff the floor. This will give your terrazzo a natural shine and help reduce scratches caused by regular foot traffic.

When Should Terrazzo Tiles Be Resealed?

After the initial sealing of your Terrazzo tiles, they should be resealed every few years. Re-sealing can help to protect the surface from scratches and staining and will help keep it looking as good as new for longer. Signs needing resealed include discoloration, fading, or spots appearing on the surface.

How Does Steam Clean The Terrazzo Floor?

Remove furniture and other items: Start by removing any furniture and other items that may be on the floor. This will give you more space to work with and prevent them from being damaged during the cleaning process.

Make sure it has been commercially sealed: Before you start steam cleaning your terrazzo floor, make sure it has been commercially sealed. Sealing will help protect it from any damage caused by steam cleaning.

Dust mop the floor: Once you have removed the furniture and other items, use a dust mop to remove any dirt, dust, or debris accumulated on the floor. This will help ensure that the steam cleaning process is as effective as possible.

Fill the steam cleaner with water: Fill the steam cleaner with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that the water is not too hot or cold.

Start cleaning from a corner: Start cleaning from a corner of the floor and slowly move across in a zig-zag pattern. This will help to ensure that all areas are cleaned evenly.

Pull the cleaner in straight lines back and forth: When steam cleaning the floor, pull the cleaner in straight lines back and forth. Make sure to overlap the strokes slightly to ensure that no areas are missed.

Empty and refill the tank as necessary: The water from the steam cleaner’s tank will need to be emptied and refilled periodically. Empty and refill the tank as necessary.

Vacuum any remaining water: Once you have finished steam cleaning the floor, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining water or suds. This will help to ensure that no damage is caused to the terrazzo floor.

Pull the steam cleaner slowly across the floor: Pull the steam cleaner slowly across the floor again. This will help remove any dirt or debris the steaming process may have left behind.

Allow the floor to air dry:  Let the floor dry completely. This is important to ensure no damage is caused by water penetrating through the sealant and into the stone.

Terrazzo Floor Cleaning Tips

Place floor mats at entrances: Placing floor mats at entrances and other high-traffic areas will help to reduce the amount of dirt, mud, and other debris that is brought onto your terrazzo floor.

Never use stain remover: Never use a stain remover, which can damage the terrazzo surface. Instead, use a gentle soap and water solution to clean the floor.

Use vacuum cleaner attachments: Vacuum cleaners with a soft brush attachment are best for cleaning terrazzo surfaces. Ensure that all dirt and debris are removed from grout lines.

Avoid using oil-based cleaner: Oil-based cleaners are not recommended for cleaning terrazzo flooring, as they can leave a slippery residue. Use only a mild soap and water solution to clean the surface.

Use rugs: Area rugs are a great way to protect your terrazzo flooring from wear and tear. They can also help reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked onto the floor.

Wipe up spills immediately: Spills should be wiped up to avoid staining and to discolor the terrazzo surface. Use a soft cloth or sponge, mild soap, and water solution to clean the area. Avoid using scrubbing brushes or steel wool, which can scratch the surface.

Apply sealant: After cleaning your terrazzo floor, you should apply a clear sealant to protect the surface from staining and wear. This will help extend your floor’s life and make it easier to clean in the future. Make sure to choose a sealant that is designed explicitly for terrazzo surfaces.

Clean floor regularly: Regular cleaning of your terrazzo floor will help to keep it looking its best. Use the right products and tools to avoid damaging the surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any cleaner or sealant.

How To Keep Terrazzo Floors Shiny?

• Regular maintenance is key to keeping your terrazzo floor looking shiny and new.
• Clean the floors regularly with a dry mop or vacuum to remove any dirt or dust that has been tracked in.
• Once per week, use a damp mop and an appropriate terrazzo cleaning solution (pH neutral) without abrasives.
• After mopping, use a clean, dry towel to remove any remaining moisture and buff the floor until it shines.
• Be sure to rinse the mop often while cleaning, and keep your strokes in one direction.

FAQs
What is the best cleaner for the terrazzo floor?

The best cleaner for a terrazzo floor is one specifically designed for use on terrazzo. Using harsh general-purpose cleaners could damage the material and strip away its protective sealant.

What does terrazzo floor cleaning cost?

The cost of terrazzo floor cleaning will depend on the size and condition of the floor, as well as the type of cleaner used. Generally speaking, professional cleaning services charge by the hour.

Which machine is best for cleaning terrazzo floors?

The best machine for cleaning terrazzo floors is a floor-buffing machine. Floor-buffing machines are designed specifically to clean and polish terrazzo floors. They are more effective than traditional mops and buckets as they reach deeper into the grooves of the terrazzo material.

Can terrazzo flooring be laid on mosaic tiles?

Yes, terrazzo flooring can be laid on mosaic tiles. However, it is essential to note that the mosaic tiles must be leveled appropriately and sealed before laying the terrazzo. Special care should be taken when applying the sealant to the mosaic tile and terrazzo surfaces.

What is the best way to clean a painted concrete floor?

The best way to clean painted concrete floors is by using a damp mop. This method will help remove dirt and debris without damaging the paint underneath. Additionally, it’s a good idea to use a mild soap solution to get into the nooks and crannies of the flooring. Rinse the floors with warm water to ensure that all the soap has been removed.

Conclusion

Terrazzo floors are a beautiful and durable flooring option that can be kept clean with regular sweeping, mopping, and deep cleaning. To ensure your terrazzo floor maintains its shine, use specially formulated cleaners to prevent the surface from being damaged by harsh chemicals or over-scrubbing.