Terrazzo floors have stood the test of time, gracing homes, office buildings, schools, and even public spaces with lasting beauty and aesthetic appeal. While these floors generally last long, regular maintenance is still a must in the equation — if overlooked, your flooring may catch unsightly stains, cracks, and chips over time. All of these factors may cause terrazzo floors to dull in shine, negatively impacting their appearance and longevity. But how to clean terrazzo floors to stop premature wear and tear (and extra expenses down the road)? Well, read on for the answer!
What Are Terrazzo Floors
Terrazzo floors are a type of flooring that has gained fame for their beautiful appearance, detailed patterns, and long-lasting build. These floors are made by combining chips of different materials like marble, quartz, or granite, which are then bound using an agent (cement or epoxy resin). The resulting mixture is poured onto a surface, where it smoothes out to create a polished finish.
Talking about the origin of Terrazzo; well, it dates back to ancient times when it was used as a pocket-friendly flooring solution. Over the years, it became more of an art form that flourished during the Renaissance period in Italy. Skilled artisans collected stones of multiple colors and blended them in the mixture to create sleek designs and patterns.
Tips and Tricks on How to Clean Terrazzo Floors
Terrazzo floors add a touch of charm and appeal that makes even the most basic of homes look extraordinary. However, the key to preserving this admirable finish is a regular maintenance schedule. Don’t worry; these floors do not require excessive mopping and rigorous deep cleanings — all you need are a few wipes here and there, and you’re good to go. So, if you’re thinking about how to clean terrazzo floors, here’s the solution.
1. Use a Steam Cleaner
Using a steam cleaner is one of the most effective tips on how to clean commercial terrazzo floors since it not only helps remove stains, including grease, yeast, odors, and fungi, but also makes your space free of any harmful bacteria. Before starting the process, run a dust mop throughout the surface to eliminate hair or loose dirt, ensuring a thorough cleanup.
Next, fill your steam cleaner with water while sticking to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the placement and quantity of water. If you live in an area where tap water has high mineral content, it’s best to use distilled water. Then, start from the corners of the space and maintain a back-and-forth motion to clean the area.
Remember, a steam cleanup is not your average push-and-pull vacuum. Thus, it is essential to treat each segment with care, pausing for two to three seconds per pass. For areas that are a bit more soiled, extend this duration to eight to ten seconds to treat the section well. The bottom line? Don’t leave the cleaner in one spot for more than 15 seconds since it may damage your terrazzo flooring.
2. Make a Basic Terrazzo Floor Cleaner
If a particular section of your terrazzo flooring has gotten a lousy stain (perhaps the bowl of cereal fell off or your child drew using their bright red markers), then a basic terrazzo cleaner may be your best bet. To begin, get a clean spray bottle, preferably one rinsed well and free from any chemical residue. Then, collect a few basic ingredients: dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and water.
Insert a funnel into the bottle before you start, and after it, pour:
- ¼ teaspoon of dish soap
- ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol
- 2 ½ cups of water
Then, swirl the mixture gently for under 30 seconds, and you’re good to go. Still thinking about how to clean terrazzo floors using a cleaner? Well, spray the solution onto dirty or hazy spots, let it stay for 30 seconds to 3 minutes, and wipe it off with a wet cloth.
3. Dust Mop the Floor Every Few Days
For those who’re wondering about how to clean terrazzo floors without a regular mopping schedule, we have bad news for you. Your floor may lose its shine and luster over time, with dirt and debris molecules settling too deep to extract using a steam or basic cleaner. As a result, dust mopping every 3-5 days is a must!
However, the efficiency of mopping depends on the type of mop you choose. For smaller and crowded spaces, using an 8-inch or 12-inch dust mop is excellent, but for more extensive areas like hotel lobbies, it’s better to go for large-sized mops (48-inch, 60-inch, or 72-inch options). Opt for a microfiber dust mop since it captures and holds debris better than other alternatives.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Terrazzo Floors
Any cheat list on how to clean terrazzo floors isn’t complete with the no-go zones. These are items that you should keep away from your flooring in order to prevent it from dullness and marred appearance over time. Here’s what you should avoid:
- Acidic or alkaline solutions may harm the ground
- Oil-based cleaners may leave a residue behind
- Scrubbers or abrasive cleaning tools can destroy the flooring
- Bleach-based cleaners or ammonia may discolor the surface
- Excessive water may seep into the surface and impair Terrazzo
Conclusion
Maintaining the attractive look of your terrazzo flooring requires diligence and the right approach to cleaning. This means following a regular sweeping schedule and using pH-neutral cleaners, keeping your floors looking like new for years to come. Plus, it is equally essential to stay away from harsh chemicals to preserve the lasting shine of Terrazzo.
Now that you know how to clean terrazzo floors, it’s time to implement a regular cleaning regimen. Don’t have time or energy for that? Well, Mill City Cleaning, a Minneapolis Cleaning Service, is your one-stop shop with over 25 years of experience and a professional team that knows its job. This family-owned and operated business is a pro at maintaining the pristine appearance of your floors, whether you seek a kitchen cleaning service or a commercial construction cleaning session.
So, what’re you waiting for? Request a free quote today to make your terrazzo flooring shine as good as new for days (or years)!
