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Terracotta Tiles

Terracotta Treatment

Anti Graffiti

Maintenance Tessellated Tiles

Polished Porcelain Tiles

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SPIRIT PRE-SEAL

A water based penetrating seal used for pre-sealing stone and other clay or masonry products.  For internal and external use.  Fast sealing and curing.  High resistance to water-borne contaminants.  Permits vapour and salt transmission.  Life expectancy of 3 to 5 years.  Helps reduce efflorescence.  Mildew resistant.  Non-flammable.  Excellent grout sealer.

SPIRIT PREMIUM SEAL

A solvent based penetrating seal that provides a natural looking finish with long life benefits.  Spirit Premium Seal provides the very best protection from both oil and water-borne contaminants.  Permits vapour and salt transmission.  Mildew resistant.  Non-flammable/non-corrosive.  Spirit Premium Seal is an excellent top finish over Spirit Pre-Seal.

SPIRIT PHOSPHORIC ACID CLEANER

A concentrated heavy duty acid cleaner developed to remove cement, mortar and grout residue.  It dissolves rust and hard water deposits, efflorescence and alkaline deposits.  It has no harmful or damaging fumes which makes it much safer than muriatic acid.

SPIRIT HDC

A concentrated heavy duty alkaline cleaner.  Excellent grout cleaner.  Dissolves soap scum on tiles.  Use on all types of tiles, slate and stone.  To remove build up soiling and staining.

SPIRIT NEUTRAL CLEANER

A fully biodegradable pH neutral cleaner safe for use on all surfaces that can be cleaned with water.  Ideal for maintaining sealed terracotta, slate, marble and natural stone.  Use as a routine daily cleaner to break down dirt and grease.  Regular use will inhibit growth of algae or mineral deposits.  Equally effective in hot or cold water.

SPIRIT GLOSSY SEAL

A high quality synthetic floor seal which contains acrylic polymers.  Used to seal terracotta tile, slate and unglazed ceramic tiles.  Spirit Glossy Seal provides a tough, durable natural sheen finish with high stain resistance.  Spirit Glossy Seal is easy to maintain.  Non yellowing.  Water based/water clean up.  Allows moisture vapour transmission.  Spirit Glossy Seal can be stripped with Spirit Stripper.

SPIRIT SATIN SEAL

An easy to use water based seal providing a soft satin finish to flooring.  Spirit Satin Seal offers high resistance to stains.  Easy to maintain.  Spirit Satin Seal can be stripped with Spirit Stripper.

SPIRIT UNI-SEAL

A solvent borne seal to be used internally and externally on concrete drive, stamped concrete, cement pavers, clay pavers, slate.  Provides a gloss finish that withstands the elements while providing protection against staining.

SPIRIT STRIPPER

A water base stripper to remove Spirit Glossy Seal, Spirit Satin Seal, and Spirit Uni-Seal.  Will remove other related products.  At last a non-flammable stripper to remove old slate seals and coatings.

SPIRIT NEUTRA-BRIGHT

A concentrated, fully biodegradable spray and wipe cleaner used on all surfaces that can be cleaned with water. Neutra-bright can be used daily on all polished stone including marble. granite, limestone without damaging the sensitive polished surfaces. Neutra-bright will not harm sealed stone or remove Spirit Seals.

SPIRIT P1 FOR FLOORS

This concentrated natural wax solution offers excellent protection for polished stone such as marble, granite and limestone flooring. Blended with Carnauba wax and supplied in easy to use spray packs. P1 offers easy application to bring up the polish look without enhancing the slip factor.

SPIRIT P2 FOR WALLS

Spirit P2 for walls is a new concept in polished stone protection. A blend of silicones provides penetration with the extra advantage of building a polished look. Spirit P2 offers protection against soap scum, water marking on polished surfaces, hard to clean surfaces, spray and polish and you will feel the difference.  

SPIRIT ANTI-GRAFFITI SEAL

This product provides the very best protection for those times when vandals attack. Based on our Premium Seal formulations most paints, marker pens and other offending contaminants cannot hold to the surface. Used on brick, stone or concrete it provides long lasting protection that cannot be seen. Spirit Anti-Graffiti will not be shiny on the surface or wear away.

TERRA-SHIELD

This product provides protection and stability for terracotta pots and garden store. Once applied Terra-Shield will assist in keeping pots clean and stain free.

We at Spirit Marble & Tile Care would like to take this opportunity to introduce the methods we employ for the treatment of natural stone.

Spirit Marble & Tile Care has been formed to satisfy the ever growing market of stone restoration and maintenance of porous tiles.  Natural stone has been available for many years providing both the domestic and commercial markets with a warm, earthy tile that has good aesthetic qualities.

With the increase in the natural stone market it has become apparent that a higher level of maintenance is required to keep the tiles clean and free from staining.  In the past, the most common form of treatment has been sealing the tile with several layers of wax.  This treatment is still valid as long as the client is happy with a shiny surface.  The drawbacks to waxing are that it needs re-coating on a three to six month basis, the wax will show signs of wearing away, it is not suitable for external use, it is not resistant to hot oil staining, and it alters the natural appearance of the tile.

 

Spirit Marble & Tile Care can offer the client a choice of a surface coating if so desired, or we can offer a penetrating seal that will maintain the natural look of the stone while providing a good resistance to staining.  We are at the leading edge of technology in respect to penetrating seals.  Our seal has proven itself by being resistant to most staining materials, deep penetrating, and durable.  Our key point is that our seal offers good resistance to oils, an area where most seals have failed in the past.

 

Due to the porosity of natural stone, staining will occur when almost any liquid comes in contact with the tile.  Once stained, it can be difficult or near impossible to remove the offending stain.

 

Natural stone has a tendency to grow mould and algae in wet locations and can suffer from salt erosion when exposed to a salty environment.  This is especially prevalent around salt water pools and beach areas.

With professional treatment using Spirit Marble & Tile Care products, these problems can be minimised by stopping egress of staining materials.  With proper cleaning natural stone can maintain its even colour and show little signs of wear after years of use.

 

Spirit Marble & Tile Care products provide the best protection for the known problems associated with natural stone.  Our products work by using high quality fluororesins in a deep penetrating solvent base.  The solvent carrier is non-flammable and dissipates quickly to provide a walkable surface within thirty minutes.  The fluororesins remain deep seated, saturating the top portion of the tile giving good staining resistance.

 

The seal is very durable and is designed to be cleaned.  It allows the tile to breathe and retain its natural colour.  The sealant will impede the formation of moss and algae growth by resisting moisture penetration.

 

The fluororesins are a good barrier to common vegetable oils.  The sealant is UV stable and will not walk off as in the case of wax coatings and surface sealants.

The life of the seal should be between three and five years depending on the type of tile, its use and wear, and the atmospheric conditions.  The seal can then be easily boosted for continuing protection.

 

We are able to provide an extensive consultation service, along with technical support.

 

Along with the specialty coating service, we are also proficient in all aspects of cleaning and restoration.

 

Once our treatment has been completed, normal commercial cleaning methods can be employed to maintain a high quality surface.

 

We are available to discuss your needs, be it new installations or existing problems.  We would be pleased to work with you providing your clients a professional service using the best products at all times.

TERRACOTTA TILES

We at Spirit Marble & Tile Care Pty Ltd would like to take this opportunity to introduce the methods we employ for the treatment of terracotta tiles.

 

Spirit Marble & Tile Care Pty Ltd has been formed to satisfy the ever growing market of stone restoration and maintenance of porous tiles.  Terracotta tiles have been available for many years providing both the domestic and commercial markets with a warm, earthy tile that has good aesthetic qualities.

 

With the increase in the terracotta market it has become apparent that a higher level of maintenance is required to keep the tiles clean and free from staining.  In the past, the most common form of treatment has been sealing the tile with several layers of wax.  This treatment is still valid as long as the client is happy with a shiny surface.  The drawbacks to waxing are that it needs re-coating on a three to six month basis, the wax will show signs of wearing away, it is not suitable for external use, it is not resistant to hot oil staining, and it alters the natural appearance of the tile.

 

Spirit Marble & Tile Care Pty Ltd can offer the client a choice of a surface coating if so desired, or we can offer a penetrating seal that will maintain the natural look of the terracotta while providing a good resistance to staining.  We are at the leading edge of technology in respect to penetrating seals.  Our seals have proven themselves by being resistant to most staining materials, deep penetrating, and durable.  Our key point is that our seals offer good resistance to oils, an area where most seals have failed in the past.

 

Due to the porosity of terracotta, staining will occur when almost any liquid comes in contact with the tile.  Once stained it can be difficult or near impossible to remove the offending stain.

 

Terracotta has a tendency to grow mould and algae in wet locations and can suffer from salt erosion when exposed to a salty environment.  This is especially prevalent around sale water pools and beach areas.

 

With professional treatment using Spirit Premium Seal these problems can be minimised by stopping egress of staining materials.  With proper cleaning Terracotta can maintain its even colour and show little signs of wear after years of use.

Spirit Premium Seal provides the best protection for the known problems associated with Terracotta tiles.  Our product works by using high quality fluororesins in a deep penetrating solvent base.  The solvent carrier is non-flammable and dissipates quickly to provide a walkable surface within thirty minutes.  The fluororesins remain deep seated, saturating the top portion of the tile giving good staining resistance.

 

The seal is very durable and is designed to be cleaned.  It allows the tile to breathe and retain its natural colour.  The sealant will impede the formation of moss and algae growth by resisting moisture penetration.

 

The fluororesins are a good barrier to common vegetable oils.  The sealant is UV. stable and will not walk off as in the case of wax coatings and surface sealants.

The life of the seal should be between three and five years depending on the type of tile, its use and wear, and the atmospheric conditions.  The seal can then be easily boosted for continuing protection.

 

We are able to provide an extensive consultation service, along with technical support.

 

Along with the specialty coating service we are also proficient in all aspects of cleaning, and restoration.

 

Once our treatment has been completed, normal commercial cleaning methods can be employed to maintain a high quality surface.

 

We are available to discuss your needs, be it new installations or existing problems.

SURFACE PREPARATION ON NEW INSTALLATIONS

Once the tile has been laid and grouted, the grouting must dry and cure for at least 48 to 72 hours before cleaning can commence.

 

To remove excess grout, cement residue, building soiling and general soiling, use Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner diluted 6 to 1

1)  Spread diluted Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner in an area only large enough to control.

2)  Agitate with a stiff brush, doodle bug, or a rotary scrubbing machining to loosen excess grouting and soiling.

3)   Remove the slurry and water with a mop, rags or vacuum cleaner designed to pick up water.

4)   With a solution of Spirit Neutral Cleaner diluted 20 to 1, rinse the tile thoroughly.  Remove all rinse water and allow to dry.  Drying time should be within one hour but may be longer depending on weather conditions.

SEALING STEPS

1)   Ensure the surface to be sealed is sound, dry and thoroughly clean and free from oils, grease, paint, existing seals, grout, common residue, efflorescence and acid.

2)  Apply one coat of Spirit Premium Seal undiluted using a dry absorbent white cloth or lambs wool applicator or solvent resistant sprayer.  To ensure total coverage apply Spirit Premium Seal in a north-south and then an east-west direction.

3)   Two coats are required with the second coat being applied at least one hour after the first coat.

4)  To ensure performance, a coverage rate of 8 square meters per litre should be achieved.  Further coats will enhance performance.

5)  Cure time.  Spirit Premium Seal cures fully within 12 hours.  However, the sealed tiles can be walked on after about 30 minutes.

Should a wax coating be desired, Spirit Glossy Seal or Spirit Satin Seal may be applied over the previous treatment.  Satin Seal and Glossy Seal are not recommended for external area.  Satin Seal and Glossy Seal will require recoating periodically.  As coatings exhibit wear they can be cleaned and recoated to maintain an even appearance.  Stripping is not necessary unless old coatings show flaking or salting under the coating.

For daily cleaning Spirit Neutral Cleaner should be used to remove day to day soiling.

For further information or technical advice please ring Spirit Marble & Tile Care on our nationwide technical support line – 0418 677 246.

WHAT IS NEW ABOUT PRE-SEALING TERRACOTTA TILES

In fact pre-sealing terracotta tile is not a new concept, but perhaps the reasons for pre-sealing have changed.  The very fact that there are many different types of terracotta tile from around the world, created by different process and clay, fired at different temperatures ensures a wide range of finished floors.  It would seem that most customers look through the terracotta tile displays and try to pick just the right colour or shade to suit the décor or match the existing tile.  All of this happens while the sales staff are standing by enthusiastically hoping for a big sale covering the entire pool area and all of the main rooms of the home.  The difficult part comes when the customer comes back to arrange a site meeting to ask what has gone wrong with their new terracotta floor.  Some of the common problems can be prolonged water retention, water marking showing as bruising or tide marks, picture framing around the grout areas, efflorescence and staining from efflorescence, poor timing around finishing the flooring ie, the whole project is complete but the sealing of the flooring due to dampness, improperly sealed flooring rushed to allow tenants to move in.

 

The simple fact is that pre-sealing your terracotta tile with an appropriate pre-sealing product can minimise these problems.  The logic behind this is, that the tile is as clean and dry as it will ever be right out of the box.  Applying an appropriate seal at this time can stabilise the face of the tile by stopping capillary action.  This leaves the face of the tile safe from grouting staining.  It can also stop efflorescence from creating problems.

 

In softer tile like handmade, it can harden the face of the tile.  Generally the colour is stable without the side effects of water marking.  If the sides are treated, water marking from the grouting can be minimised.  Pre-sealing provides a foundation for further cleaning and final sealing products.  A pre-sealed tile generally suffers less from trauma during the construction process.

 

Since a pre-sealed tile doesn’t really retain water in the face of the tile, the finishing process can begin in as little as a week after the tile has been laid.  If adhesives have been used, the process can begin after the grouting has dried and cured, approximately three days.  In some cases where the pre-sealed tile is to be used on pathways or areas where oily foods will not be present, the pre-sealed process is sufficient to protect the tile, while stopping other problems such as mould, algae and other water borne staining problems.

 

All in all the concept of pre-sealing can offer a wider view to tile installation.  The process also enhances the performance of other natural stone such as limestone, sandstone and other porous products available today.

PRE-SEALING

When considering laying Terracotta tile with a porosity of over 6% pre-sealing is a very important step to consider.  By pre-sealing the face of the tile prior to exposing the tile to water, you will provide many benefits to the end product.

 

Spirit Pre-Seal is a water based penetrating sealant that will thoroughly seal porous clay, cement, sandstone, limestone and other natural and man made products.  In many applications it is used as a finishing product to stop water based staining, mould, algae growth and promote ease of cleaning.

 

When used to pre-seal Terracotta tile the process must begin prior to the tile being exposed to water.  If the tile is to be laid in a wet bed or fixed damp at all, the tile should be laid out and sprayed with Spirit Pre-Seal before the laying process can begin.  This also means the tile should be kept dry from the rain or other sources of water.

 

If the tile is to be fixed with an adhesive, the process is easier as the tile can be laid as normal.

 

Once the tile is laid but not grouted, Spirit Pre-Seal can be applied by spraying the day before grouting is to begin.

 

Allow 24 hours for Spirit Pre-Seal to fully cure.  Spirit Pre-Seal will stabilise the surface of the tile, prevent water marking, efflorescence and provide protection to the tile until the project can be completed.

 

CLEANING

Once the tile has been pre-sealed and grouted, cleaning can commence by using Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner diluted 6 to 1.  The grouting must be 48 to 72 hours old and dry before cleaning can commence.

 

Spread diluted Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner in an area only large enough to control.  Agitate with a stiff brush on a scrubbing machine to loosen excess grouting and soiling.

 

Remove the slurry and water with a wet pick-up vacuum or mop.  With a solution of Spirit Neutral Cleaner diluted 20 to 1 rinse the tile thoroughly.

 

Remove all rinse water and allow the tile to dry.  If Spirit Pre-Seal has taken, the tile will dry quickly.

 

While the tile is drying, you should detail the tile and clean any mess from the acid cleaning.

 

FINAL SEALING

When the tile is clean and dry the final seal can be applied.  Spirit Premium Seal offers the very best in subsurface sealing.  Spirit Premium Seal provides a natural look to the tile while giving excellent protection against oil staining.

 

Spirit Premium Seal can be applied with a lambs wool applicator, polyester window washing tool, clean white cotton rags or fluffy rollers.

 

Spirit Premium Seal should generally be applied at a coverage rate of 8 to 10 square meters per litre.  This can be applied in one or two coats as required.

 

Unlike other sealers there is no limit to the amount of Spirit Premium Seal that can be applied.  The seal will naturally soak into the previous coats and blend with them.

 

Should a wax coating be desired, Spirit Glossy Seal or Spirit Satin Seal may be applied over the previous coatings.  The floor must be cleaned with Spirit Neutral Cleaner first to remove the beading effect before Spirit Satin Seal can be applied.

To maintain the finished floor, daily cleaning should be completed with Spirit Neutral Cleaner.

GIVING TERRACOTTA THE TREATMENT IT DESERVES

SPIRIT’S RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE LAYING, SEALING & MAINTENANCE OF TERRACOTTA

Terracotta is a flooring of great aesthetic appeal.  Due to its main structural characteristics, terracotta is generally very porous.  Spirit Marble & Tile Care recommend the Spirit System to gain maximum value from terracotta.

 

The Spirit Treatment System: Aims and characteristics -

 

Spirit Treatment System is designed to protect against staining.  The treatment is based upon the use of synthetic sealers and waxes which ensure complete and uniform impregnation, and easy maintenance while brightening the terracotta and exalting its aesthetic qualities.  It therefore differs from alternative treatments based on linseed oil which gives rise to floors with light and dark stains, stickiness and problematic maintenance, or varnishes which are easily “scored” glassy finishes and problematic maintenance.  Another alternative are oil-based sealers which because they will not allow the tile to “breathe”, cannot be applied until a minimum of 40 days after laying and hence exposing the floor to staining.

1.  METHOD OF INSTALLATION:

Spirit recommends tillers who are familiar with terracotta and we strongly suggest their employment.  If other tillers are employed, it is important tiles are laid correctly.  Spirit recommend terracotta be fixed with glues as opposed to a mortar bed.  This method minimises the amount of efflorescence (salt, which is inherent in a sand/cement base, is dissolved by water.  This salt in vapour form, is absorbed by the tile and forms on the surface as a white deposit).  Simply, less water used in the installation means less efflorescence.  It is also important to make sure the tiler “works clean” while the tile is in this highly porous state, ie, careful with finger marks, foot marks and even pen or guide marks, as they may prove impossible to remove.  Spirit do not recommend that tiles be dipped in water.

2.  TILE SURFACE PREPARATION:        

The tiles should be wiped free of contaminants that may effect proper bonding such as dirt, dust, grout residue, grout release, acid residue, sealers or other prior to sealing.

3.  SEALING PRIOR TO GROUTING:

One of the major advantages of the Spirit System is the sealing process which can be applied prior to grouting.  These water based sealers allow the tile to breathe keeping stains out whilst allowing moisture and efflorescence to escape from the tile in a vaporised form.  The Spirit System can even begin PRIOR to laying!

 

Apply Spirit Pre-Seal a minimum of 24 hours prior to exposing the tile to water.  This will help protect the porous tiles from grout staining and facilitate the grouting process. 

 

IMPORTANT:  Carefully read the directions for sealing on the bottle.  ALWAYS TEST SEAL A SMALL AREA BEFORE ATTEMPTING THE ENTIRE JOB as each terracotta floor is unique.

4.  SEALING INTERNAL TILES:

Internal Gloss Finish

After 48 hours the grout will be adequately dry to apply 2 thin coats of Spirit Premium Seal using a lambs wool applicator or clean, white, lint free cotton cloth with a minimum of one hours interval between coats.  REMEMBER TO TEST A SMALL AREA FIRST.

 

After the sealer has dried, apply a small amount of water to the surface to check that the tile is sealed.  If not, the sealer may need time to cure, or additional sealer may need to be applied.

 

After Spirit Premium Seal has dried, lightly clean the tile to remove the beading effect from the tile using Spirit Neutral Cleaner.  Allow the floor to dry and apply 2 thin coats of Spirit Glossy Seal.

 

Internal Natural Finish

The best result is achieved when Spirit Premium Seal is applied 24 hours after grouting.  Apply with lambs wool applicator or white cotton cloth.  Two thin applications are necessary, applied in cross direction (north to south, then east to west).  As Spirit Premium Seal is a “Fluro” chemical, it evaporates rapidly when exposed to the air resulting in inexperienced people to apply it too thickly and sometimes ineffectively.  Shake out any excess Spirit Premium Seal from your applicator and apply ONE very thin coat in one direction.  This one coat is ALMOST enough to seal the tile, but because the grain of the tile may cause the applicator to miss some spots, apply another coat in the other direction.  Also use a covered tray to minimise loss to the atmosphere and keep only the minimum amount necessary, in the tray.  IMPORTANT:  Test seal a small area before completing the whole job to ensure your technique is right and you are happy with the final result.

5.  SEALING EXTERNAL TILES:

Spirit recommend either Spirit Premium Seal or Spirit Pre-Seal as both resist staining yet still maintain a slip resistant surface.  The maintenance cleaner we recommend is Spirit Neutral Cleaner.

6.    MAINTAINING INTERNAL TILES:

The maintenance of the tile is an integral part of the treatment and correct maintenance is just as important as correct sealing.  Generally the continued enjoyment of your floor will require a weekly to fortnightly mopping with a solution of two caps full of Spirit Neutral Cleaner in a bucket of warm water.  It is important to use Spirit Neutral Cleaner only, as this cleaner is neither acidic nor alkaline (which damage sealers).

 

If a potential stain causing spillage occurs, it should be wiped up immediately.  However, some staining may still occur as sealers are not impervious to ALL substances.  (If your requirements are for an impervious surface you should consider glazed ceramic tiles).  However, with the Spirit Premium Seal and Spirit Glossy Seal system, the substances may penetrate the top coats, but as the tile is now sealed, the stain will be kept close to the surface making it easy to remove.  To do this, apply Spirit Neutral Cleaner first.  If this is unsuccessful, apply Spirit HDC.  This should remove the stain but will also necessitate the re-application of at least 3 coats of Spirit Glossy Seal as it will have fulfilled its role as a “sacrificial coat” and will subsequently have been removed.

 

TYPE OF STAIN

Vegetable or animal fat

Preserves

Beer and wine

Ice Cream/Coffee/Tea

Engine/Machine Oil 

Linseed Oil  

Felt tipped pen

Acrylic paints 

Oil based paints

Rubber

Ink/rust and oxides

Cement/grout film 

Efflorescence

PRODUCT NAME

Spirit HDC

Spirit Neutral Cleaner

Spirit Neutral Cleaner

Spirit HDC

Spirit HDC

Spirit HDC

Spirit HDC

Xylene

Xylene

Xylene

Spirit Phosphoric Acid

Spirit Phosphoric Acid

Spirit Phosphoric Acid

7.  OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:

a)  Blending colours – prior to installation we suggest your fixer opens several boxes, spreads the tiles out and blends the colours.

b)   Variations in size, shape, etc – generally tiles may vary in size, shape and thickness.  For this reason we recommend grout widths of 5mm to 15mm depending on the size of the tile and the method of manufacture.  Some of the rustic materials such as Mexican Saltillo sometimes show characteristics such as chipped edges, slat bursts and fine hairline cracks which add to the appeal of the final floor.

c)   If for some reason the tiles are to be laid but temporarily left unsealed, cover the new floor with a natural breathing cover (medium weight canvas, calico or painters drop sheet).  DO NOT cover your tiles with plastic, newspaper, aluminum foil or tar paper.

d)   These recommendations do not replace the manufacturers product directions.  Please ensure you read the direction on each product carefully.

LIMESTONE SEALING CARE & MAINTENANCE

Limestone is a porous to very porous stone and when used in flooring should be sealed to protect the stone from effects of water marking, water staining and staining from foods and drinks.  In addition to normal staining, limestone can suffer from the effects of tradesmen such as construction debris, cement, grout and heavy foot traffic.  To minimize the damage and promote easy cleaning Spirit Pre-Seal should be applied to the face and edges of the tile prior to the stone being exposed to water.  Spirit Pre-Seal will act as a grout release and stabilize the stone to keep contaminants near the surface.  It is important to allow the pre-sealed stone at least 24 hours to dry and cure before laying or grouting to ensure the full effect.

 

Once the stone has been pre-sealed, laid and grouted and approximately three days have passed for grouting to harden, the cleaning process can begin.  Because limestone is composed of calcium carbonate and other minerals that react with acidic cleaners, no acid should be used to clean or remove cement or grout.  If an acidic cleaner is used, damage may occur to the face of the stone.  If Spirit Pre-Seal has been applied correctly and cured, grout smear and soiling can be cleaned using Spirit Neutral Cleaner and a brush.  This is a simple way to clean and prepare the surface for the finishing products to be applied.  Once the stone is clean and dry Spirit Premium Seal can be applied.  The coverage rate may vary depending on the porosity but normally 8 to 10 square meters per litre will complete the job.  If the stone is inside, a coating such as Spirit Satin Seal may be applied after washing with Spirit Neutral Cleaner.  This will limit the beading effect and allow the Spirit Satin Seal to level and dry.  Two coats will give long lasting protection and a low sheen to the stone.  For daily cleaning  use Spirit Neutral Cleaner mopped on and allowed to dry.  For periodic heavy cleans use Spirit HDC to remove heavy buildup of soiling.

 

Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed more than 50% by weight of calcium carbonate.  Calcite is the dominant mineral, although aragonite and dolomite are also present.  Approximately 20% of all sedimentary rocks are limestones.

 

Limestones are composed of a mixture of grains of calcium carbonate, clear crystalline calcite, and carbonate mud.  Lime-secreting organisms, the major source of these components, produce carbonate sediment (both mud and coarser particles) and sedimentary structures – the latter by burrowing and boring activity.  Other sources include calcareous algae and filamentous blue-green algae, which produce carbonate mud, grains, and structures such as stromatolites.  Most limestones were deposited in subtropical to tropical zones, and sedimentation occurred in shallow water (less than 15 meters).  It is in these areas that the variables that control life (temperature, light penetration, and nutrient supply) are most advantageous.  In addition to the fossil content, the classic textures of some limestones, crossbedding, and other indicators of current action also imply the shallow-water origin of limestones.

Limestones differ greatly in texture and colour, depending on the size of the shells or crystals composing them and the impurities they contain.  Most limestones are light in colour and contain fossils.  Many are highly fossiliferous and represent ancient shell banks or coral reefs.

Minor constituents include silica (usually less than 5%), feldspar, clays, and pyrite.  Limestones can form organically or inorganically.  Organic limestones include chalk, coquina, and other such foraminifera-containing deposits.  Examples of inorganic limestones include travertine and most lites.

 

Limestones are important because they are reservoirs for petroleum and natural gas.  They are also reservoirs for groundwater and for ore deposits such as lead and zinc.  Limestone is used for agricultural lime, cement, building stone, and concrete aggregate.

CONCRETE PAVERS AND TILE SEALING RECOMMENDATONS

Concrete Pavers and Tiles are available in many colours and profile. As with most porous surfaces, the need for sealing should be addressed. Spirit Marble and Tile’s care range of products facilitate ongoing maintenance and aesthetic appearance.

            The sealing of concrete products will prevent staining from general soiling, food, liquid spills, leaves, bark etc…

            For treatment to be most effective the surface must be clean and dry, marks and stains that have been sealed over remain and generally are highlighted with seals.

            When laying these types of products, we recommend the following manufacture instructions. As Acid cannot be used on cement-based products, grout should not be left on the surface to dry.

            If there is a grout smear or efflorescence on the surface an Alkali Cleaner such as Spirits HDC may be effective.

 

SPIRITS UNI-SEAL

With coverage rate of 6-10 sq mtr/ltr will provide excellent protection against the elements. The application of uni-seal can be carried out by spraying or by the use of a lambs wool applicator, in the fashion of north, south, east, west this will result in the enhancement of colour.

 

SPIRITS PREMIUM SEAL

This is another option, this also provides an excellent protection without changing or enhancing it’s colour. The coverage rate is also 6-10 sq mtr/ltr.

            All areas require periodic cleaning with a neutral cleaner, such as Spirits Neutral Cleaner. By following the correct laying and Sealing Procedures recommend your paving will last for many years.

Method of Application

1.  Ensure surface to be sealed is sound and dry. Thoroughly clean and make sure stone is free from oils, grease, paint, grout, cement residue and efflorescence or acid.

 

2.  Apply one coat of Spirit anti-graffiti; undiluted using a roller applicator or solvent resistant sprayer. To ensure total coverage apply Spirit anti-graffiti at approx 8 square meters per litre.

 

3.  Cure time is approx 12 hours; however the area sealed is touch dry after about 30 minutes.

 

In the event of a Graffiti attack.

Affected area should be treated sooner rather than later. The method of removal will depend on the nature of attack.

Spray paint attack: To remove spray paint from the surface Spirit Stripper can be applied with a brush and allowed to stand for ten minutes. Try and keep the area wet with stripper during the waiting time. After ten minutes the area should be cleaned with a pressure washer approx 1200 psi. Should any offending material remain the process should be repeated.

Most containments can be removed with Spirit Stripper but in the event of marking persisting; Spirit Stripper can be replaced with common paint stripper. In the event of the area being cleaned more than three times. Spirit Anti-Graffiti should be reapplied.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF TESSELATED TILES

Tesselated Tiles have been used as flooring for many years and provide a vast range of colours and patterns to suit commercial and residential situations.  They are thin, hand and precision made, fired at very high temperatures.  Most range of Tesselated tiles are very dense with low to very low porisity ranges.  To this end Spirit Pre-seal is not required to stabilize the tile, unless the tile really absorbs moisture.

SURFACE PREPARATION

 

Ensure the installation is sound and dry prior to cleaning.  Identification of soiling is important in the choice of cleaning chemicals and method.  On new installations there will likely be grouting residue left from the laying.  Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner is designed to clean away grout smear, cement residue, rust stains and other mineral related problems.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

1)    Dilute with water 8 parts to 1 part acid.

2)    Dampen the area to be cleaned before applying the acid solution.

3)   Apply the acid solution in a controlled area and allow to stand several minutes before agitating to loosen grout and cement smears.

4)   Keep the area wet at all times.  Do not allow Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner to dry on the surface.

5)   Pick up the solution with a wet and dry vacuum or mop.

6)   Rinse twice with a diluted solution of Spirit Neutral Cleaner to remove all acid.

Should the installation be existing and in need of refurbishment, the same steps should be followed using Spirit H.D.C. in place of Spirit Phosphoric Acid Cleaner.  This is a heavy duty alkaline cleaner that will remove difficult soiling.  In all cases the tiles should be left clean and dry prior to commencing the sealing.

SEALING

Always do a small trial area in an inconspicuous area to ensure application competence and satisfaction with results.

 

1)   Ensure surface to be sealed is sound and dry, thoroughly clean and free from oils, grease, paint, grout or cement residue, efflorescence or acid.

2)   Apply 1 coat of Spirit Premium Seal undiluted using a dry absorbent white cloth or lambs wool applicator or solvent-resistant sprayer.  Ensure total coverage with the face of the tile taking an even wet appearance when premium seal is applied.  Allow to dry undisturbed for at least one hour.  In the event of excess seal remaining on the face of the tile, cleaning with Spirit Neutral Cleaner or Spirit H.D.C. after the seal has fully cured in 12 hours, will remove the seal from the face only.

MAINTENANCE

Clean when necessary using Spirit Neutral Cleaner diluted as per instructions on labeling.

MAINTENANCE OF POLISHED PORCELAIN TILES

The advent of the porcelain tile in the last decade has ushered in a new era in hard floor coverings.  These tiles usually have a water absorption of less than 0.05%, with some less than 0.01%, they are highly abrasion resistant with the colour going all the way through the tile.  They are thin, hard and precision made, fired at high temperatures, sometimes exceeding 1200° C.  They are now produced by most of the major floor tile manufacturers and are available in unglazed, profiled and highly polished finish.

 

While the unglazed porcelain tiles are almost impervious to stains and require only a minimum of maintenance, the polished porcelain tile has, in some cases, become stained.  This staining can almost always be avoided by one application of a penetrating sealer.

The polished finish is attained through a grinding and polishing process much the same as that in which marble, granite and other stones are polished.  This process leaves the polished tile approximately 2mm thinner than when it started.

 

In simple terms, the polishing process cuts through some of the porcelain clay particles exposing their inner core.  While the porcelain ware remains relatively impervious, the inner core of the clay particles may, in some cases, accept a stain.  Penetrating sealers can fill the exposed pores, making the tiles highly resistant to surface staining, this also makes general maintenance easier.  Penetrating sealers do not generally alter the appearance of polished porcelain products since they are designed to only fill the microscopic pores and not coat the tile, nor should they affect the slip resistance of the tile.

PENETRATING SEALERS

In general, the use of a penetrating sealer is recommended for polished porcelain tiles.  Some manufacturers seal their tiles prior to them leaving the factory.  If the tiles are to be used in areas which are prone to excessive spills or are light in colour, use of a penetrating type sealer is strongly recommended.

 

A penetrating sealer is one that does not leave a coating on top of the tile.  Always try the sealer in an inconspicuous test area first.

TYPES OF PENETRATING SEALERS

Water based and solvent based sealers are available, both perform satisfactorily.  The water based products are the newer technology, they’re more environmentally friendly as they contain no ozone depleting solvents and are less dangerous to use as they are not flammable.

APPLICATION OF PENETRATING SEALERS

Proper application of penetrating sealers is important.  Follow the manufacturer’s application guidelines.  If you have questions prior to application, contact the manufacturer direct.  The following is a suggested application procedure for a penetrating sealer.

1)   Surface must be thoroughly clean and free of any material that may prevent the sealer from penetrating.

2)   Apply sealer using a dense sponge, working the sealer into tile surface in a circular motion.  Avoid having excess sealer run down into the tile joints.

3)   One thin application should be sufficient.

4)   Completely remove excess sealer from the surface after 3 minutes using a clean cotton cloth, rag, etc.

 

Penetrating sealers are applied only once, and generally do not require re-application.

SPECIAL GROUTING SITUATIONS

Before grouting any polished porcelain products, regardless of the grout colour chosen, it is strongly recommended that a test patch be done by the contractor to ensure the grout pigment will not contaminate the surface of the tile.  Special care and testing should be done when light coloured tiles are to be grouted with a dark coloured grout.

If no grout discolouration occurs, proceed with grouting, taking care to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  If the group pigment discolours the surface of the tile, a proprietary grout release should be used or the surface should be treated with a penetrating sealer prior to grouting.

INITIAL CLEANING OF POLISHED PORCELAIN TILES

Before routine maintenance begins, it is important to completely remove grout and construction dirt left over from the installation process.  Grout manufacturers print instructions for proper mixing, curing, and cleaning of grout on their packaging.  These directions should be followed.  In most cases, polished porcelain tiles can be cleaned successfully by scrubbing the installation with hot water and detergent, followed by a thorough rinsing.

Only if grout residue still remains, further cleaning of the tile should be carried out with Phosphoric acid in a ratio of 1 part acid to 5 parts water (23%), or sulfamic acid in a solution no stronger than 250g of sulfamic acid crystals to 10 litres of cool water, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.  Hydrochloric acid is not recommended as problems arise if it is stronger than 10 to 1, if it is not rinsed off thoroughly or is left on the surface too long.  This may result in the tile surface becoming permanently stained, with a dull, blotchy appearance.  It may also damage adjoining materials and cementitious grout joints.

It is important that, before the acid solution is placed on the floor, the grout be thoroughly saturated with water first.  Some grouts which contain latex can actually bond more strongly to the tile surfaces if treated with acid.  Cleaning should not take place until the grout has fully cured, usually 2 to 7 days.

Acid-based cleaners should not be used to clean coloured grouts.  Acid washing of dark-coloured grouts will most likely lock the colour pigment into the surface pore structure and make the tile much more difficult to clean, acid may also cause discolouration of the coloured grout joints.

Once the initial cleaning has been thoroughly completed, daily maintenance procedures can be followed.

TOP SEALERS AND WAXES

These products should not be applied to polished porcelain tiles.  The low absorptive nature of polished porcelain tile not only inhibits dirt and stains, but also prevents top-sealers and most chemicals from penetrating the surface.  Top sealers and waxes create a coating over the tile and grout joints, they will change the appearance of the tile, they will also show traffic patterns as the sealer becomes scratched or wears away.  They may also discolour or “yellow” when exposed to Ultra Violet light.

PROPER CARE DURING CONSTRUCTION

Polished porcelain tiles should not be installed until heavy construction is completed.

In between the installation and putting the floor into service, it is important to properly protect the tile and grout in order to avoid construction related cleaning problems.  A protective cover should be put over the tile surface to safeguard the appearance.  The cover could include building paper, cardboard, plywood, or any other covering that will not damage the integrity of the installation.  Do not use plastic as it may induce sweating and discolouration by not allowing the grout and bedding material to dry properly.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

General maintenance and cleaning of porcelain tile varies depending on the surface texture and soil load.  General cleaning should be performed with a neutral cleaner diluted to the manufacturer’s recommendations.  Non-oil, non-acidic, and non-soap base cleaners should be used.  Porcelain tile has a dense, low absorptive body that inhibits the penetration of contaminants, harsh cleaners and aggressive scrubbing will not harm the tile.  The grout joints, however, may be adversely affected by harsh cleaners and aggressive scrubbing.  They could become weak and discoloured over time.  Test all cleaning materials and techniques in an inconspicuous area whenever you are selecting or changing your cleaning materials.

 

If the cleaning agent does not affect the appearance of the installation, please follow these procedures.  Frequency and duration of the maintenance procedure will depend entirely on the soil load.

 

There are four steps that are critical and should always be remembered for the successful maintenance of porcelain tiles:

 

1)   All spills should be cleaned up as quickly as possible.

 

2)  Use only the recommended dilution of neutral detergent.  More is not always better; the higher concentration of detergent in the cleaning solution will only make it more difficult to rinse.  If the floor is exposed to excessive spills, large amounts of traffic, or if the floor is textured, a stronger cleaning agent may be necessary.  These stronger cleaning agents should be on the alkaline side of the pH scale and generally have a pH of 9 or higher in the concentrated form.  Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation at all times when using these products.

 

3)   Allow the proper dwell (remain on the floor) time.  The detergent solution must be given time to act on the soil load.  Generally five to ten minutes is sufficient.

 

4)   Rinse thoroughly with clean, clear water to remove the dirty detergent solution and emulsified soil.  Rinsing is a critical step in the maintenance procedure.  If dirty detergent solution is not removed and is allowed to dry on the surface, a coating will form which is very difficult to remove.

 

POLISHED TILE

For general cleaning:

1)   Sweep or vacuum the floor of loose dirt.  An untreated, dry dust mop may be more effective than a soft-bristle broom.

2)   Mop with a mild cleaning solution.  Use 50% less detergent concentrate than one would use on an unpolished floor.

3)   Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean, clear water.

4)   Dry the floor thoroughly to increase the shine and prevent water spots

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