What is terrazzo flooring? Terrazzo is a mixture of marble and Portland cement mixed together; two parts marble to one part cement. When it is installed, marble chips are sprinkled on the surface so that a majority of the surface is marble. Terrazzo was most popular during the 50’s – 70’s but is making its come back over the past few years.
To be able to clean the terrazzo floor you have to understand what it is made of. The marble part of its surface is almost non-absorbent; however the cement binder is very porous and absorbs stains easily. This is the part of the flooring which will cause you the most grief. In older floors this seems to be the biggest problem; however if you are having a new terrazzo floor installed, the last step of installation is to apply a penetrating sealant approved for terrazzo. This sealant will be absorbed by the concrete pores, greatly reducing the absorption quality of the concrete.
If you have an existing terrazzo floor that is stained, you will have to use several steps to restore it. First you will want to remove the existing build-up with a plastic scraper (do not use metal scrapers) Apply your floor cleaner over the surface with a mop. For stubborn yellow stains, use a soft-bristled scrub brush. You will need to rinse the floor with a mop and water, rinsing the mop often. Be sure to rinse well so that the floor can be sealed. Once your floor is rinsed, then dry, apply an approved sealant with a roll paint brush. Allow plenty of time to dry.
If you have new terrazzo being installed, most of the work is done for you. With today’s products, the sealants will provide a beautiful and long lasting look for your floors. Terrazzo is easy to clean as long as the installation process was performed according to the installation instructions.
It is important to keep sand and debris off the floor. Sweep the floor often as this debris acts as an abrasive and can damage the floor. Use a cleaner designed or approved for a terrazzo floor. Wet mop the floor allowing the cleaner to remain on the floor for several minutes. For the best results, rinse the cleaner off the floor thoroughly. You may need to change your rinse water a few times. Once the cleaner has been removed towel dry the floor to prevent water streak marks from appearing and to restore the floors natural shine. Do not use any types of wax on your terrazzo floor.
As with any hard flooring you can use carpet mats to trap dirt from coming into your home onto your clean terrazzo floor. You may also want to place carpet rugs in high traffic areas and high use areas such as your kitchen. With daily sweeping, and weekly mopping, your terrazzo floor will look as new as the day it was installed.
Author Vincent Platania represents the Fuller Brush Company.
Fuller Brush has been in business since 1906, and offers safe, environmentally friendly products for keeping your home and your body clean.
