What's the least expensive way to keep travertine tile clean? Is there a safe glossy sealer?
Question:I spent nearly $400 on StoneTech sealer for a 2200 sq. foot house but it just soaks in and leaves no shine. Any suggestions?
Answers:
The best way to keep any tile floor clean in my opinion is acid washing. This is by using a SULFAMIC acid/ water mix. When you buy the canister of acid granules the instructions will teach you the acid to water ratio. Do not fear, this acid is very MILD, it is safe to work with, without gloves. Not only that but, it's very inexpensive. I've installed tile flooring for seven years now and this is how I clean my own floors at home. I also have marble floors but, unlike you I dislike a high shine. This works great for me, I very much dislike sealers. For this acid wash you will need the following: 1 canister of SULFAMIC acid (it comes in a orange and yellow container @ the Home Depot), 1 five gallon bucket, 1 grouting sponge, 1 wooden stir stick and a hard bristled brush. If you need any further assistance, contact me at pisofuerte360@yahoo.com. Good luck.
Depends on which StoneTech sealer you used. First, travertine is a natural stone, unless you use StoneTechs' Lacquer Sealer on it, you won't get a shine. Their Lacquer sealer leaves a glossy shine. However, if you use it in a high traffic area, you will be constantly reapplying it. If you want the high gloss shine all of the time, you need to replace the travertine with either a ceramic or porcelain tile that looks like granite or marble. Then there is also the slip factor to take into account with the high glossy shine. This is taking into consideration if all of your tile is on the floor judging by how much square footage you listed.
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