If you’re looking for ways to bring a wet-look shine to your marble floor as they do in hotels, you might want to consider Crystallization. Marble Crystallization is the process of creating a high-gloss finish on calcium-bearing stone floors, such as marble, limestone, and travertine.
This process helps resist staining and scratching and makes cleaning a lot easier. Marble floors that have been crystallized have a higher shine than those that haven’t.
What is Marble Crystallization?
Marble Crystallization was first developed in the early 20th century. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the process became widely used. Marble floors were commonly found in public buildings and hotels during this time.
The process uses steel wool combined with a weighted floor machine and crystallization chemicals, producing a mirror-like shine on floor surfaces.
There are three steps in marble crystallization:
- The marble floor is cleaned and prepared;
- A solution of chemicals is applied to the surface of the marble.
- The solution is allowed to dry, and then a high-speed buffer is used to polish the floor.
Crystallization creates a microfilm on the marble’s surface through friction and chemical reaction. The compound formed protects the surface, making it resistant to stains while preserving the stones’ color and luster.
Marble crystallization is ideal for high-traffic indoor applications, especially on floor lobbies. It is often used in commercial settings, such as hotels, restaurants, and office buildings.
What are the Advantages of Crystallization?
There are several advantages of marble crystallization:
- It adds a high-gloss shine to your marble floor.
- It creates a protective barrier on your marble’s surface.
- It makes the floor easier to clean.
What are the Disadvantages of Crystallization?
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- It makes the floor more slippery, especially when wet. Thus, it is not recommended for outdoor floors.
- It does not allow the stone to “breathe.”
- It requires professional service as the process needs specialized skills, products, and equipment.
If you’re considering Marble Crystallization for your floor, weigh its advantages and disadvantages before deciding.
Where to Get a Marble Crystallization Service?
Considering its long-term advantages, Crystallization is a more cost-effective process than using wax on marble floor surfaces.
The latter requires frequent buffing and reapplication and builds up on the surface, causing an unnatural, plastic appearance. Moreover, poor quality coatings can “yellow” and may cause permanent staining to some stone types.
Do note, however, that Crystallization must only be performed by trained craftsmen familiar with this process. Excessive moisture in the stone can hamper the crystallization reaction and may cause problems.
Should you wish to restore the beauty of your home or office’s marble floor, you may schedule a free estimate by calling us at (02) 8352 0195.
We also supply and install granite, marble, and quartz countertops. Visit our showroom in EDSA Balintawak, Quezon City to get a free quote today.