The terrazzo floor is a type of flooring that is made from chips of marble, quartz, granite, glass, and other materials, embedded in a concrete base. This type of flooring has become increasingly popular due to its durability and beauty. Terrazzo floors need to be maintained properly to keep their shine and protect them from wear and tear.
Polishing terrazzo floors is one of the best ways to keep them looking their best. The process of polishing terrazzo floors begins with preparation. This includes removing any loose dirt and debris, as well as any existing wax or sealant. It is important to make sure that the surface is completely clean and free of any contaminants before beginning the polishing process.
Once the surface is thoroughly cleaned, a polishing compound is applied and worked into the surface with a buffing machine. The polishing compound helps to fill in any small cracks or chips in the terrazzo and gives the floor a uniform look. Once the polishing compound is applied, the terrazzo is then buffed with a high-speed buffer. This helps to smooth out the surface and give it a glossy finish.
Depending on the type of polish used, the process may need to be repeated several times to achieve the desired level of sheen. After the terrazzo is polished, a sealant is then applied to protect the floor from dirt and moisture.
Dos and Don’ts for Polishing Terrazzo floors
There are a few things that should be kept in mind when polishing terrazzo floors. First, it is important to use the proper type of polishing compound.
Second, the polishing process should be done in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing in any of the dust or fumes that are created during the process.
Finally, it is important to use the correct safety equipment when buffing the terrazzo, such as eye protection and a dust mask.
How to Polish Terrazzo Floors
1. Prepare the Terrazzo Floor: Begin by sweeping the floor with a soft-bristled broom to remove any dirt and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining dirt and dust from the surface.
2. Clean the Terrazzo Floor: Use a damp mop to clean the terrazzo with mild detergent. Use a scrubbing brush to remove any stubborn stains. Rinse the floor with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
3. Apply a Terrazzo Cleaner: Apply a terrazzo cleaner to the floor and scrub it in with a mop or a machine scrubber. Allow the cleaner to sit for the amount of time specified in the instructions. Rinse the floor with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
4. Apply a Patching Compound: If there are any cracks or chips in the floor, use a patching compound to fill them in and level the surface. Allow the patching compound to dry completely before proceeding.
5. Polish the Terrazzo Floor: Apply a polishing compound to the floor and use a terrazzo polishing machine to buff the surface. You can also use a high-speed buffer with a polishing pad to polish the floor.
How to Maintain Polished Terrazzo Floors
1. Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the terrazzo floor to remove any loose dirt and debris.
2. Mop the floor using a neutral pH floor cleaner. Make sure to rinse the mop after each pass to avoid leaving a soapy residue.
3. If the floor is heavily soiled, scrub the floor using a floor scrubbing machine with a brush attachment.
4. Rinse the floor with clean water and allow it to dry.
5. Apply a coat of sealer to the floor using a roller or brush. Allow the sealer to dry for the recommended time specified on the product.
6. Buff the floor with a high-speed floor buffer and a specialty terrazzo polishing pad.
7. Apply a coat of high-speed floor wax and buff the floor with a high-speed floor buffer.
8. Repeat the waxing and buffing process as needed to maintain the shine and luster of the terrazzo floor.
9. Vacuum and mop the floor on a regular basis to keep it clean.
In conclusion, polishing terrazzo floors is an important part of maintaining the beauty and durability of this type of flooring. The process requires the use of the proper cleaning and polishing supplies, and it should be done in a well-ventilated area to avoid any health risks.
Following these steps will help to ensure that your terrazzo floors look their best and last for many years to come.
Also read: Why is my vinyl floor turning yellow?
