Is terrazzo back?
Terrazzo floors became popular in the mid-20th century thanks to their strength, aesthetics and great durability.
During the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, terrazzo flooring became the preferred choice for homes, public buildings and businesses due to its low maintenance and elegant appearance, making it one of the most widely used floorings in Europe and America.
In recent years, it seems that terrazzo floors are back in fashion, especially in modern spaces that seek to combine classic elements with contemporary ones.
However, it is important to know that over time, an old terrazzo floor can lose its natural shine and accumulate dirt and stains that are difficult to remove.
Knowing how to clean an old terrazzo floor is essential to preserve its original beauty. In this article, we will explain the best cleaning methods, home tricks and professional treatments to restore its original essence.
What is terrazzo?
Terrazzo is a material made from a mixture of cement and fragments of marble, granite or glass. It has a mottled appearance and a natural shine. It is mainly used on floors due to its high wear resistance and ease of maintenance.
Its essential characteristics are:
- Its great durability and low maintenance
- Its classic aesthetics.
Why is it important to know how to clean an old terrazzo floor correctly?
It is important to note that old terrazzo floors can become dull over time and develop permanent stains if not properly cleaned.
The most common problems caused by inadequate cleaning are:
- The loss of its natural shine
- An aged appearance
- The appearance of difficult-to-remove stains
- Uneven wear in high traffic areas
Homemade tricks to clean an old terrazzo floor
Daily cleaning of terrazzo floors
To avoid the accumulation of dirt and dust we recommend following these steps:
- Sweep or vacuum the terrazzo floor to remove dust and dirt particles.
- Mop the terrazzo floor with water and neutral soap. We recommend wringing out the mop well to avoid excess moisture. Do not use abrasive products such as bleach or ammonia as they damage the shine. Avoid cleaning your terrazzo floor with vinegar and other acidic products as they can erode the surface.
- You can use a dry cloth to dry the terrazzo floor immediately to avoid water marks. Do not let water accumulate on the surface as it can penetrate and cause stains.
Removing stubborn stains from terrazzo floors
- To remove grease stains: All you need to do is mix warm water with a few drops of neutral detergent or mild dishwashing liquid and rub gently with a microfibre cloth.
- To remove rust stains: Simply apply a paste of baking soda with a little water, leave it for a few minutes and then rub with a damp cloth. You can add a few drops of lemon, but don't overdo it, as lemon, being acidic, could erode the terrazzo over time.
- To remove ink or wine stains: Use isopropyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol 70%. Rub with a soft cloth to remove the stain, being careful not to mar the surface of the floor.
Restore the shine to terrazzo without harsh chemicals
If your terrazzo floor has lost its natural shine, you can try these homemade techniques:
- Special wax for terrazzo: Apply a thin coat and buff with a microfiber cloth.
- Baking soda and water paste: Apply and rub with a soft cloth.
However, you should know that it will not always be possible to clean an old terrazzo floor with home tricks. If the floor is very damaged and these techniques do not work for you, you can opt for a deep cleaning and a professional restoration.
Deep cleaning and restoration of an old terrazzo floor by professionals
When your terrazzo floor is very worn, professional restoration is the best solution to restore it to its original appearance. In fact, it is much cheaper and faster than replacing the floor completely.
This process includes three essential steps:
- Deep cleaning: Specialized machinery is used to remove the most stubborn dirt and difficult stains.
- Polishing terrazzo: Eliminates scratches and superficial marks, giving the floor a smooth and uniform texture.
- Terrazzo vitrification: Seals the surface, providing a shiny, wear-resistant finish, facilitating subsequent maintenance and reducing dirt build-up.
These treatments will leave your terrazzo floor looking like new. They will restore its original appearance and prolong its lifespan, without the need to replace it.
If you're looking for professional terrazzo floor restoration, at Projectes Sastre, experts in floor polishing and vitrification in Mallorca , we offer a free initial assessment and a no-obligation quote, so you can find the best solution for your floor without any obligation.
In conclusion: Knowing how to clean an old terrazzo floor correctly is key to maintaining its beauty and durability over time. From daily cleaning to professional treatments such as polishing terrazzo and vitrified floors, there are multiple options to make your floor look like new.
Why trust Projectes Sastre?
✔ Experience and professionalism: We have been working in restoration for more than 50 years and Floor maintenance in Mallorca, guaranteeing impeccable results.
✔ Advanced techniques: We use cutting-edge technology and products to maximize the durability and shine of the floors we restore.
✔ Personalized attention: Each floor is unique and deserves a treatment adapted to its needs. We analyze its condition and offer the best solution.
