Over time, floors lose their shine, accumulate stains and dirt, and become worn. It is quite common that when we are faced with this situation, we wonder if we should replace the floor or if there is a possibility of refinishing it.
Well, the good news is that in the vast majority of cases, it is not necessary to replace old or worn floors; with professional floor restoration, they can be restored to their original beauty.
In this article we will explain how to restore old floors using professional polishing and vitrification techniques. Did you know that these techniques, in addition to restoring floors to their original splendour, also extend their useful life? In addition, we will advise you on maintenance and how to choose the best option depending on the type of floor.
What is the condition of the floor?
The first step is to assess the condition of the floor to determine the degree of wear and tear and thus define the recommended treatment. The most common damages are:
- Surface wear and loss of shine.
- Scratches, cracks and permanent stains.
- Uneven ground.
- Moisture stains or dirt build-up in joints.
We invite you to read How to know if your floor needs professional floor polishing? so you can detect the most common signs of wear specifically for each type of floor.
Is floor restoration viable?
First, the structural integrity of the floor would have to be assessed to determine whether it is feasible to restore the floor or whether it would have to be replaced.
Secondly, it would be necessary to consider whether the type of floor material allows for restoration.
We recommend that you consult with professionals so that they can carry out an accurate assessment and advise you on the most appropriate treatment.
At Projectes Sastre, we polish and glaze floors in Mallorca . We always analyze the condition of the floor and provide you with personalized advice. We work with materials such as marble, terrazzo, granite, concrete, and hydraulic tiles, ensuring that each surface receives the most appropriate treatment.
In addition, this detailed analysis of the work to be carried out has no additional cost, ensuring transparency and trust, together with prior advice on the best treatment to perform.
In some cases, the damage is so severe that it is preferable to replace some pieces before proceeding to complete floor restoration.
Floor restoration or replacement?
Many people wonder whether it is better to refurbish floors or replace them completely. In this section we will clearly explain the main differences between one solution and another.
Cost: Replacing a floor completely is much more expensive than restoring it. A polishing and vitrification treatment can cost up to 70% less than installing a new floor. Therefore, floor restoration will always be more economical than replacement.
Time: Replacing a floor can take several weeks of work, especially if the old floor has to be removed and the subfloor prepared, while a floor restoration can be completed in a matter of hours.
Environmental impact: If you are concerned about sustainability, floor restoration is a more sustainable option than replacement, as it extends the life of your floor without creating unnecessary waste. On the other hand, replacing a floor creates a considerable amount of debris and discarded materials.
Aesthetics: This is perhaps the most subjective question, since “there are all kinds of tastes.” Restoring old floors maintains the original essence of the floor, while completely replacing it allows the home to undergo a radical change, losing the authenticity of the original material.
Techniques for restoring old floors
Deep cleaning in floor restoration:
It is an essential preliminary step before applying the other techniques, as it eliminates impurities that could affect the final result.
This cleaning is carried out with specialized rotating machines that, unlike conventional manual cleaning, allow for deeper and more uniform cleaning.
Depending on the floor material, neutral detergents, special degreasers or enzymatic cleaners are used. Some techniques include the use of steam or other chemicals that can remove residues embedded in the pores of the floor.
Polishing as a key technique in the restoration of old floors
Polishing is a process that uses abrasive discs to remove surface layers of dirt and wear.
It removes scratches and surface marks using specialised machinery and also restores the original shine. It is especially used on marble, terrazzo, granite, concrete and hydraulic tile floors.
Vitrified: protection and shine for the restoration of old floors
The vitrification of floors creates a protective layer that seals the floor and gives it a long-lasting shine. This increases the floor's durability and prolongs its lifespan. This layer protects against wear, stains and moisture, facilitates daily cleaning and provides a shiny, polished finish.
Recommended maintenance after floor restoration
- Cleaning routines: We recommend using mild, acid-free products and avoiding dragging the furniture to prevent scratches.
- Damage Prevention: Carpets can be placed in high traffic areas, and humidity can be controlled on wooden floors to prevent warping.
- Schedule periodic maintenance: Professional maintenance is recommended every 2-3 years to keep the floor in perfect condition. In commercial spaces, the frequency should be higher.
At Projectes Sastre, we are specialists in floor polishing in Mallorca.
Restoring old floors is a great alternative to restore the beauty and functionality of any space, without having to replace the flooring. Not only does it save time and money, but it also preserves the identity and authenticity of the space, while generating less waste.
Through polishing and vitrification techniques, it is possible to restore floors to their original appearance and ensure their durability over time.
We recommend that you request a no-obligation quote from professionals in polishing and vitrification techniques, so that they can help you assess whether floor restoration is suitable for you. If you need our advice, contact us without obligation and we will be happy to help you.
