Archive for the ‘Marble Polishing’ Category

Stone floors – replace or renovate?

By CS On December 10, 2019 No Comments

Because natural stone looks great and can last a long time, today many business premises and residential homes feature tiled stone floors. These floors may have dealt with the footfall from a few years or even a few centuries. Over time marble, limestone, slate and other natural stone floor tiles can become dirty, damaged and look past their best. When the situation gets really bad, you might think the only answer is to take up the tiles and replace them with a new floor altogether. But before you replace your stone floor at great expense, consider whether a specialist in stone floor cleaning and renovation can rescue your existing floor.

Natural stone floors – problems that can be put right

If it’s possible to renovate a stone floor it will usually be a far more cost-effective solution than taking up the old floor and putting in a new one.

Specialist stone floor cleaning and restoration can:

  • Remove ingrained grime from stone tiles
  • Smooth away lippage, where the stone floor tiles are uneven
  • Clean or refinish grout for a professional look
  • Neutralise algae or other outdoor hazards
  • Polish scratches out of the surface
  • Correct patches of discolouration

Check with a stone floor cleaning specialist first

If you think your stone floor will have to be replaced it is always worthwhile checking first. You might be surprised that stone floors that appear damaged, dirty or dull can be brought back to life in many cases. You can contact a stone floor cleaning specialist like Cornwell Services and we’ll quickly be able to determine whether we can renovate your stone floor instead.

Please contact Saul at Cornwell Services on 07738 022813. We’re a Hertfordshire-based business and we cover Hertfordshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and north London.



Don’t rip it out! Renovate your marble floor

By CS On October 22, 2019 No Comments

It’s easy to become convinced that the stone floor in your home or commercial property is beyond repair. Ingrained dirt, uneven surfaces and grout problems can make even the best materials – such as marble tiles – look dreadful and create a trip hazard. Given property owners’ instinct to replace floors in bad condition, Cornwell Services was delighted to be given the task of marble floor cleaning and restoration at a home in Ely, Cambridgeshire. We were able to rescue the marble floor tiles in the kitchen for a fraction of what it would have cost the homeowner to replace the floor. That’s a great result for our client.

Cambridgeshire marble floor renovation

The issue for the property owner in Cambridgeshire was that their marble kitchen floor had been poorly laid two years earlier. The floor had extreme lippage with some tiles sitting higher than others resulting in an uneven surface. The marble tiles had also not been grouted. Given the disappointing workmanship of the original tiler the client was not satisfied with the floor and considered removing the tiles would be their only option. Fortunately, they contacted Cornwell Services first to see if the floor could be saved. It could!

The work to clean and restore the marble floor took only two days, with Cornwell Services returning to the property once the floor was dry in order to seal it.

The stone floor cleaning & restoration process

Saul Cornwell at Cornwell Services worked on this project. He masked off the kitchen units and grouted the floor ready for grinding and de-lipping. With the kitchen units protected and the grout dry, the following day he was able to create an even surface using a 150kg machine kitted out with heavy duty metal bond diamond tooling. This process is classed as grinding, but it’s completely dust-free since water is used to create an abrasive slurry. This rapidly removes the high spots from the tiles creating a flat but scratched surface.

Once the marble floor in the kitchen was completely level, Saul used Stage 2 and 3 metal bond diamonds to reduce the deep scratch patterns. These scratch patterns were further reduced at Stages 4, 5, 6 and 7 using resin bond diamonds, until the floor became reflective. Saul also tackled edges and corners with smaller specialist machines so that the entire floor was in pristine condition.

During the final process before sealing Saul used high quality polishing powders under a lighter rotary machine with a natural hair pad. This created a high gloss shine, leaving the marble floor beautifully smooth with a reflective finish. Once dry, a specialised impregnating seal was applied and buffed until dry to prevent the ingress of water and oil-based spills in future.

The client was astounded that such dramatic results could be achieved with a floor that would otherwise have been ripped up and replaced. To find out whether we could restore your floor with our specialist stone floor cleaning and renovation service please contact Saul at Cornwell Services on 07738 022813. We work for homeowners and businesses across Hertfordshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and north London.    



Marble pool surround restored with specialist cleaning

By CS On August 9, 2019 No Comments

This case study shows the before and after pictures from a recent marble floor cleaning project in Hertfordshire. The stone flooring formed an elegant pool surround for a 5-metre outdoor swimming pool at a private residence. Cornwell Services were asked to clean and restore the marble surface which was in need of deep cleaning. After specialist treatment, the homeowner was delighted with the transformation. Take a look…

Marble pool floor cleaning and restoration

Marble floor – tough but porous

As a hardwearing design classic, marble is a great choice for indoor and outdoor floors. But despite being a hard, stone surface, marble is a porous material. This means that it can be prone to a build-up of dirt and staining over time.

The marble restoration challenge

With this project the tiles were comprised of honed marble for slip resistance – essential for a pool surround which will get splashed and wet. A honed surface also means that it can catch the dirt more easily than polished marble. In this case the tiles had become stained and covered in algae and lichen.

In addition, the swimming pool had a very practical retractable pool enclosure, given our changeable climate. This can turn an outdoor pool into an indoor pool in a matter of minutes. Since the pool enclosure had been left over the pool for some time the marble tiles on the outside had different discolouration compared to the tiles kept under cover. When the enclosure was retracted the difference in the condition of the marble was clear with a tramline in evidence where the enclosure ran over the tiles.

Our marble floor cleaning regime

To return the marble pool surround to its original pristine condition, we neutralised and removed the algae and lichen growth, along with the dirt and grime. This was done with repeated washing using a specialist stone-cleaning agent. Then the entire marble floor surface was rinsed, making sure that all the dirty water was extracted into the waste tank of our powerful van-mounted machine. This step is necessary to protect the surrounding area from any damage. Once dry, a seal was applied to the floor which impregnated the marble tiles to help prevent any future regrowth of algae or ingress from dirt.

These photographs demonstrate what can be achieved. The result is that the marble pool surround has been transformed – back to its original condition.

Ask us about your stone floor

To find out how we could help with your own stone floor cleaning project please contact Saul at Cornwell Services on 07738 022813.

Cornwell Services are a Hertfordshire-based business and we cover Hertfordshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and south-east England.



Getting The Best From Your Marble

By saul123 On May 17, 2018 No Comments

Marble is a natural stone that can be used throughout your home, for flooring, wall tiling, and work tops. However with time and use marble loses its initial shiny new look. Here are some tips that will ensure that your marble flooring remains sparkling and bright.

Do not let spills become stains – any liquid, be it a  soft drink or alcoholic beverage spillage can leave a permanent stain on your marble flooring and work tops.  Since acidic liquids can permeate the surface of the marble easily, it is therefore necessary to wipe off any such liquid immediately with warm water and a soft cloth.

Marble flooring although it is strong, is susceptible to even minor scratches and chipping. Moving furniture it is always advisable to lift rather than drag to prevent scratches and we always recommend when walking around in your home you wear slippers. Even the smallest pieces of grit on your outdoor shoes can create deep scratches in your marble flooring.

Maintain your marble, by regular vacuuming and mopping with a neutral stone cleaner. In bathrooms be very careful with your toilet cleaners etc as they will etch the marble surface and leave unsightly marks. Have the surfaces regularly maintained by a professional. We will deep clean your marble, re-seal it and restore its natural shine. Keeping it looking beautiful for years.

The best way to keep your marble looking great is to join our maintenance programme, you pay an agreed monthly amount and we visit once, or twice a year (depending on your usage and needs) and keep you floor looking spectacular. Give us a call if you would like to know more on 07738 022813. We work hard to ensure that you are equipped to deal with daily cleaning and routine maintenance. This will allow your marble tiled floor to look its best, all of the time!



Making Sure I keep Up To Date!

By saul123 On February 19, 2018 No Comments

I always feel it is absolutely essential to keep up to date with stone floor cleaning training. When it comes to stone cleaning and restoration, companies are always bringing out new and innovative ways to get the best results possible.

Therefore, I spent Thursday and Friday last week learning the latest and best techniques, to get the best results when I’m working on people’s floors. The video shows some of the work we were doing and gives you an idea of the processes required depending on your flooring.

We looked at advanced marble polishing techniques and cement polishing among other things.

These two elements of stone restoration can be particularly challenging. Different stone types provide varying intricacies and it is therefore important that you are well stocked with well-rounded knowledge. Ongoing training and experience provide this opportunity and everything we learn, we are able to bring new and innovative processes and ideas to our work.

Other elements of our trade that we are always investing in are the new product formulations and cleaning machinery. To complete any stone restoration project successfully it is vital that all of these elements are considered and used. Knowledge of the trade, correct machinery and ideal products are the formula to success.

Have you got a natural stone floor that needs restoration? We are stone restoration specialists and serve all areas throughout Hertfordshire. Whether you are looking for a marble polishing specialist, or a general stone cleaning expert, Cornwell Services are able to provide a second-to-none service to restore your stone floors.

We try to make it easy for our clients to make contact with us; we will answer all questions in a timely manner and endeavour to get back to enquiries immediately. We offer support throughout the process through to completion of the stone floor restoration work and beyond. Call today on 07738 022813.



Your Cheat Sheet for Cleaning Marble Tiles

By saul123 On April 4, 2017 No Comments

Marble floor tiles are one of the most instantly recognisable varieties. They are also linked with quality and toughness. This versatility and striking appearance means that they are popular in both domestic and commercial properties.

The following information has been put together in order to offer advice to care for your marble tiles. It is important to remember that marble is a porous stone and therefore does require specialist products and techniques in order to avoid damage whilst cleaning.

polishing marble floors hitchin hertfordshireAs professional marble tile cleaning specialists we offer the following services for marble floors;

  • Marble grinding
  • Marble polishing
  • Marble cleaning
  • Stone sealing

These services combined offer a comprehensive marble restoration provision. If your tiles are scratched, etched or worn then the surface layers will need to be ground away. This takes away existing surface coatings and problem areas. Once this has been completed the surface then needs polishing to achieve a flawless finish. All tiles are then sealed with an appropriate application that will leave your tiles looking at their best.

What Advice Do We Offer for Regular Cleaning?

  • Marble Tiles HertfordshireTo reduce abrasive particles from entering your home place matting both inside and outside at each external doorway. Invest in a high-quality variation so that more particles are removed prior to entering your property
  • Make sure that you use a cleaning product that has been formulated purely for cleaning marble. Ensure that it is a sealer-friendly product so that the surface seal is not damaged during routine cleaning.
  • Make sure to wipe up any liquid spillages as soon as they are found. A sealed stone will have resistance against liquid but it is not waterproof. This is the same for all spillages as many foods or other particles contain oils that will damage the surface.

Once we have completed our restoration process we will then make sure to leave you with advice on cleaning products and techniques. This means that your freshly-restored look will remain as long as possible. Please be assured that the process is cost-effective and will leave you with better-looking tiles that will stand the test of time. Please call 07738022813 to enquire.



Five Steps to Cleaning Marble Tiles Hertfordshire

By saul123 On January 15, 2016 No Comments

Marble tiles excel as a leader in popularity due to their striking attractiveness and sophisticated reputation. Marble is a natural stone that fits perfectly into almost any domestic or commercial setting.

Is your marble floor looking a little dull, scratched or damaged? There is a huge range of problems that at first glance may seem as though they are not reversible. However, this is one of the true advantages of natural stone tiles as there are very few problems that cannot be restored with a skilled approach.

Many clients have reported that use of marble cleaning products has produced unimpressive results and that this has left them appreciating the value of our comprehensive stone restoration services.

Marble Tiles HertfordshireStep 1: Initial Deep Clean

This process begins with rotary cleaning machinery. We have heavily invested in the best available machinery to create an impressive deep clean.

Step 2: Diamond Resurfacing

Graduated abrasive pads are used to slowly grind the surface of the stone tile. Marble grinding works to remove scuffs, scratches and some staining.

Step 3: Fine Abrasion

Finer abrasive pads are used to produce an incredibly smooth finish. This is a part of the process that can produce a sheen to the tile. If a more polished look is required, further polishing techniques are required.

Step 4: Impregnating and Sealing

This process finishes the tiles and offers resistance against further wear or staining. This finish enhances the natural beauty of your stone.

Step 5: Ongoing Maintenance

To ensure that you get the most from your marble cleaning project it is imperative that you are well-informed with regards to maintaining your marble flooring. This includes knowledge of the best cleaning products and techniques.

We work to leave our clients with information that provides both value and detail. If you would like to discuss a marble restoration project please call today on 07738022813. We provide an ongoing service that offers true value for money.



The Secrets to Cleaning Marble Tiles

By saul123 On November 28, 2015 No Comments

It is sometimes said that stone restorers hold the key not only to achieving the best clean marble tiles but to ensure that you get most from your beautiful stone floor.

Whilst marble floor tiles are almost instantly recognisable and offer a striking appearance it is imperative that you are well-informed on how to deal with routine maintenance of this tile type.

Marlbe Tiles HertfordshireWhere Marble Floor Tiles are best laid

Marble is well-suited to both domestic and commercial properties alike. They also offer a dynamic quality in that they can be used in many areas of the home including hallways, kitchens, bathrooms and entrances.

Is Marble Expensive?

Most presume that sourcing marble will be expensive. The truth is that there are huge variations of tiles available that can be suited to a range of budgets.

Our Marble Top Tips:

There are many variations of stone sealers available; marble floors should always be sealed once they are fitted. However, this seal will not last forever and the process needs repeating on a regular basis.

Marble Tiles HertfordshireStone flooring is an investment into your home and it is therefore imperative that they are treated, cleaned and protected correctly.

Do not make the mistake of trying to save money by cleaning or restoring your tiles yourself; incorrect cleaning products can leave tiles dull and damaged.

The cleaning process does need to be tailored as each marble floor is individual. This means that there will have been different deteriorating factors that have led to the requirement of stone restoration. The process of restoration therefore needs to take this into account in order to achieve the best possible result.

Marble tiles are a great asset to any property and we will leave you with product information and techniques so that you can get the most from your tiled floor. Call today on 07738022813 to arrange a quotation at your convenience.



Cleaning Marble Tiles Huntingdon

By saul123 On March 11, 2013 No Comments

Marble Floor HertfordshireThese marble tiles in Huntingdon, one hundred years old, had a few deep stains, the grout lines were mouldy and the overall floor looked scratched and dirty.

We were asked to restore the entire marble floor; it took two full days to grind and polish the surface using state of the art diamond encrusted wet grinding tools. This removed the deep staining, made the floor flat and smooth with no lippage and created a deep high gloss finish.

How to clean Marble HertfordshireA lot of our customers ask questions on how to clean grout and what methods provide long-lasting results.

We are happy to discuss our comprehensive cleaning and restoration stone flooring services and will always offer information to clients about routine cleaning.

Marble Tiles HertfordshireThis marble now looks fantastic and how it would have looked one hundred years ago when it was originally laid.

Contact Saul on via the website or call on 07738022813 to discuss any of the marble polishing, marble cleaning and marble restoration services available throughout Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas.

This client was so impressed with the results of their restored, timeless marble floor.

We work methodically and meticulously to provide the best possible stone cleaning results.



Marble Polishing Hitchin

By saul123 On April 17, 2012 No Comments

Marble floors can look spectacular if cleaned and polished on a regular basis.

This customer of our had a dull looking marble floor in Hitchin, Hertfordshire and asked us if we could restore her once stunning looking floor to its natural state.

We were happy to oblige!

On arrival, the marble floor had lots of marks on it and was looking very dull and tired.

marble floor cleaning and polishing hitchin hertfordshire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our powerful cleaning machines soon got to work.

marble floor polishing hitchin hertfordshiremarble floor cleaning hitchin hertfordshire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The newly cleaned and polished marble floor looked as good as new again and we recommended a maintenance plan to our customer to make sure it stayed clean and shiny for as long as possible.

polishing marble floors hitchin hertfordshire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Saul for help and advice on marble floor polishing Hertfordshire