Natural stone tiles, such as granite, marble, and travertine, add elegance and durability to any space. However, their porous nature makes them susceptible to staining, which can detract from their beauty and require proper care to maintain. A comprehensive guide on how to effectively remove stains from natural stone tiles and grout is what we at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to share today.
Identify the Stain
The first step in stain removal is identifying the type of stain you’re dealing with. Common stains include oil-based stains (such as grease or food spills), organic stains (like coffee or wine), rust stains, and water marks. Each type of stain requires a different approach.
Oil-Based Stains: These include grease, cooking oil, and cosmetics. They are usually dark and can penetrate deep into the stone.
Organic Stains: Coffee, tea, or wine can leave dark stains that may appear reddish or brown.
Rust Stains: Typically orange or reddish, these are caused by metal objects coming into contact with the stone or grout.
Water Marks: These are usually light-colored and appear as rings or spots.
Prepare the Area
Before applying any cleaning solution, ensure the area is free from dirt and debris. Sweep or vacuum the floor and wipe down the tiles with a soft cloth. For grout, use a mild detergent solution and a grout brush to clean the surface. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry before treating the stain.
Treating Specific Stains
Oil-Based Stains: Create a poultice by mixing a cup of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and tape the edges. Leave it for 24 hours, then remove the poultice and rinse the area with clean water. Repeat if necessary.
Organic Stains: Use a poultice made from hydrogen peroxide and a small amount of ammonia. Mix these ingredients into a paste, apply it to the stain, and cover it with plastic wrap. Allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before removing it and rinsing the area.
Rust Stains: Rust stains can be challenging to remove and often require a commercial rust remover specifically designed for natural stone. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. For a DIY approach, you can use a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda, but test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid damage.
Water Marks: Water marks are best treated with a poultice made from a mixture of baking soda and water or a mild, non-acidic cleaner. Apply the paste to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for a few hours. Remove the poultice and rinse the area with water.
Re-seal Natural Stone
After removing the stains, it’s important to re-seal the natural stone tile to protect it from future staining. Choose a high-quality sealer designed for natural stone and follow the application instructions on the label. Typically, the stone should be clean and dry before sealing.
Regular Maintenance
Preventing future stains is key to maintaining the appearance of natural stone tiles. Clean spills immediately with a soft cloth and a pH-balanced cleaner. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the stone. Regularly seal your tiles and grout to provide an additional layer of protection.
Natural Stone & Tile & Grout Cleaning, Sealing, Polishing & More in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
You can keep your natural stone tiles looking pristine and beautiful for years to come by promptly addressing stains and adhering to proper cleaning and maintenance practices. Call Silver State Floor Restoration for natural stone cleaning and maintenance services for Las Vegas, Valley homes and businesses.