Granite flooring adds elegance and longevity to the place where it is installed. Though it is scratch-proof and resistant to heat, dust, spills, and stains may develop and give a dull appearance, thereby weakening the granite floors over time. Proper cleaning methods help keep it looking new while extending its lifespan.
In this Brick & Bolt article, we will provide you with easy steps and simple methods to clean your granite floors properly and avoid damages which might hamper the beauty they add.
What are the Benefits of Choosing Granite Floor?
Choosing granite stones for your flooring may offer some benefits as follows:
- Long-lasting Strength & Endurance
As one of the strongest natural stones, granite is perfect for decorative flooring. It is resistant to scratches and can withstand high foot traffic.
- Minimal Care
Granite is easily cleaned when properly sealed. It is stain- and spill-resistant and typically only requires routine sweeping and mopping.
- Appealing Design
Granite’s distinctive hues and patterns elevate any area. Enhancing the beauty of your floors with granite may also add value to your property.
Why Granite Floors Need Regular Maintenance and Cleaning?
Do you know that granite floors are low-maintenance if you clean them regularly? To stay in good shape, your granite flooring must be cleaned regularly. Over time, dust, grime, and debris may cause scratches and low-shining effects on your granite floors. Sometimes, spills and stains may cause marks if they are not cleaned properly. Cleaning your granite floors may help to get rid of germs and bacteria that may affect the inhabitants.
DIY Solutions You Can Make At Home
Using DIY techniques to clean your granite floors can be easy and reasonably priced. Here are some DIY cleaning ideas:
- Warm Water and Dish Soap: Use a gentle towel to clean after combining dish soap and warm water. Rinse well.
- White Vinegar & Water: Take an equal part and clean the stained surface.
- Baking Soda & Water: Use this paste to remove stains from the granite floor.
- Rubbing Alcohol & Water: Water stains can be easily removed by an alcohol and water mixture.
- Baking Soda & Lemon Juice: To sterilise and remove dirt from surfaces, a lemon and baking soda combination will be useful.
How to Deal With Stains on Granite Floor?
Stains can still occur after sealing. Quickly blot spills to stop them from spreading instead of wiping. Then, rinse with clean water and mild dish soap. Use a special stain remover for tough stains.
Poultice Power
Sometimes a poultice can remove certain stains. With oil-based stains, mix equal parts of poultice with water. For water-based stains, mix with hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to the stain, gently scrub with a soft cloth, and rinse.
Cover Stubborn Stains with Plastic
Cover the stained area with plastic wrap. If the stain continues to stick around, apply some tape along the edges and leave it at least overnight. Remove the plastic wrap and apply some gentle scrubbing and a good rinse.
Do’s of Granite Cleaning
Here are some tips for maintaining granite floors:
- Avoid using strong chemicals and use a pH-neutral cleanser. A granite surface cleaner is enough to make your cleaning process simple.
- Try to clean the spills as soon as you find them because granite absorbs liquids quickly.
- Use a mop or soft cloth to clean the surface.
- Use a fresh cloth to gently pat the surface dry after cleaning.
- Seal your granite frequently to keep it safe. Find out from your installer how frequently it needs to be done.
Don’ts of Granite Cleaning
Points to remember when maintaining your granite are as follows:
- Avoid acidic cleaners since granite is sensitive to such cleaners, including vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach.
- Rough pads or powders may damage granite; avoid using abrasive scrubbers and instead use mops or soft towels.
- Do not place heated objects directly on it since it may crack or discolour the granite.
- Clean spills quickly, and avoid water sitting.
- Limit cleaning products to prevent residue. Read the labels carefully.
Use Professional Granite Cleaners
Professional cleaners can remove stains, dirt, and bacteria, making your granite floors shine. They use special tools and products to restore their beauty. To shield the granite from further harm, they can also use sealing procedures.
It’s usually preferable to rely on experts who are aware of the particular requirements of your flooring when it comes to granite floor care. They guarantee that your floors will remain in excellent shape for a long time thanks to their experience.
When hiring professional cleaners for your granite floors, ask for additional services like sealing to protect against stains, polishing for shine, stain removal for tough marks, and deep cleaning to remove set-in dirt. These extra services will help maintain the beauty and durability of your floors for longer.
Tips for Protecting Your Granite Floors
You can follow the simple tips to protect your granite floors efficiently as follows:
- Frequent Maintenance
For granite floors to remain beautiful, they require routine maintenance. Use a neutral cleaner every two weeks and sweep or dry mop every day. Apply a stone sealer every six to twelve months to avoid damage.
- Grime and Dirt
Use a granite cleaner to get rid of stubborn stains and filth from your floors.
- Holes, Chips, or Cracks
To fix minor flaws like chips or cracks, use a granite floor repair kit.
- Dullness or Scratches
Use a granite polish with a mild abrasive to restore lustre in areas that have slight scratches or dullness.
- A dull or worn-out appearance
To restore the granite’s brilliance in cases of more severe damage, get in touch with an expert.
Conclusion
In short, granite is a beautiful, long-lasting material that raises the value of your house. Its excellent appearance must be maintained with regular care and cleaning. Avoid rough instruments and strong chemicals, and use pH-neutral cleaning solutions. DIY cleaning solutions can also be prepared at home. Seal your granite regularly to protect it from heat, scratches, and stains. You can keep your granite flooring looking beautiful and appealing for a long time by adhering to these suggestions.