Understanding Travertine Floors
Travertine is a form of limestone often used for flooring. Its texture and warm tones make it ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. It can be installed as slabs or tiles, but tiles are preferred due to their easier installation process. The surface of travertine tiles has a unique texture consisting of holes. Travertine tiles with smooth surfaces are also available.
Tools and Materials
Materials
Warm water
- Sponge
- Dish soap
- Stone grade cleaner
Stone grade polish
How to Clean Travertine Tiles
A good-quality stone cleaning solution is the best way to clean travertine tiles. You can also clean these tiles using a DIY solution of your own. Here are a few steps on how to clean travertine tiles for you to follow:
How to Polish Travertine Floors
Simply cleaning travertine tiles is not enough to maintain their shine. You must polish them with a good quality stone polish to ensure their longevity. Take a look at the following steps to understand how to polish travertine floors.
Clean the Floor
First, ensure that there is no dust or dirt on the travertine floor. Spray a cleaner and wipe off any stains from the floor.
It is best if you can follow up the polishing process right after cleaning and drying the floor.
Get a Smooth Surface
Travertine floors naturally contain small holes and crevices. Fill these gaps with a sealant to ensure a smooth surface. Check your travertine floor for any such irregularities. Fill these gaps with epoxy or penetrating sealant. Otherwise, water can deposit in the holes and lead to mold and mildew growth.
If you notice a large patch on the travertine floor that needs to be repaired, get it powder polished by a professional.
Spray the Solution
Spray a PH-neutral polish, which has been verified to be safe for use on travertine floors. Spread it evenly across the floor using a soft cloth. Read and follow the instructions mentioned on the packaging.
Always confirm that the polish is marked safe to be used on travertine floor.
Let it Dry
Do not walk over the floor after spraying the polish. Let it air dry completely before using the area again. Follow the instructions mentioned in the stone polish manual for any additional steps.