Travertine Tile

When you are cleaning travertine floor tiles, you need to follow the correct technique and use the right cleansers, so that you don't damage the tiles. Travertine is a stone material similar to limestone. It is made of porous calcite, and its surface has small crevices and holes. The unique colors, texture and patterns have a natural warmth, that makes them ideal not only for floors, but for walls as well. It is also used on backsplashes and patios. Travertine tiles can be cleaned with procedures similar to those used for cleaning limestone or marble. The characteristics and composition of all three are a lot alike.

Once you install travertine tiles, they can last for a long time. They are elegant and durable, and easy to maintain if you clean them correctly. First, you should sweep the tiles with a soft broom, or clean them with a vacuum cleaner with a glider fitted for this reason. Sweep regularly, so that the dirt and dust particles on the surface of the tile don't enter the tiles' tiny pores.

After you sweep your tiles, select the right product to clean them. Normal tile cleaners don't work well on travertine, because you need one with a neutral pH value. Tile cleaners for travertine tiles are mild soaps which can be suitable for stone more than tile. Read the instructions provided by the cleansers' manufacturers, to make sure it will work on your travertine floor tiles.

When you clean travertine tiles with any liquid, you must use caution, because the porous tiles will absorb liquids, and this could harm the surface. Prepare your proper tile cleanser by mixing your cleanser with clean water, following the manufacturer's instructions. Use a clean or new microfiber mop, dip it into your solution, and wring all the excess water from the mop, and then remove the dirt and grime from the tiles with the mop.

Next, take a soft cloth piece and dampen it in clean water, and then wring it out. Wipe the tiles to make sure they are free from residues that may have been left behind by the cleanser. Dry the tiles off with a dry cloth. This mopping should be done once every week or two.

Travertine tiles are easily stained, so sealant should be applied to prevent any unwanted marking on the tiles. You should apply this about once every year. Use a clear epoxy resin for this sealing process. This will help you to maintain the look, and will give the tiles a glossy finish. A sealed surface won't require you to clean it as frequently.

When you polish travertine tiles, it will help to keep their glossy shine showing through. Use floor polishes that are made for stone. Clean up any liquid spills as soon as you see them, so they won't damage the surface of your floor. If you leave spills standing, they will be absorbed into the tile and may cause damage. Don't use abrasives on travertine floor tiles, as these may dull your floor.