Why should I choose marble for my floors?
Firstly, for purely aesthetic reasons. The aesthetics of marble are quite different from that of granite, ceramic tile or wood. Besides, it is widely accepted that a marble floor in a house remains timeless and can fit into "classical" but also "modern" spaces. Secondly, because a marble floor is extremely durable. It offers the possibility of renovation (polishing) after some years as polishing just removes a very 'thin' surface of marble and does not create any resistance problems.
What type of marble should I choose?
The type of marble that somebody chooses, depends greatly on the use for which it is intended. There are e.g. light colored marbles that are ideal indoor options, but are not suitable for outdoor use because they become discolored with sunlight. Also there are materials that should not be used on floorings because they are very soft. Your choice should therefore be based on the aesthetic demand, the economic factor and the knowledge of whether the material is suitable for the intended application. The physico-mechanical properties of materials are a good element for consideration. White marbles such as Dionysos, Thassos, Naxos, Carrara, Sivec, etc. adorn countless constructions and give brightness to the spaces. Pinkish options like Pelion Pink, Levadia, Rosa Portogallo, Perlino Rosato, or Rosa Norvegia create a particularly warm atmosphere in the spaces. Greens like Tinos, Cipollino, or grays like Kozani and Kavala are imposed in the space with the dynamism they emit.
Does the cost of marble vary?
It is totally understandable that the cost factor is very important nowadays. The origin and size of the slabs, or thickness and coloring are important factors that affect the cost. Economical marbles such as Kavala can start from € 18 / m², beige-yellow marbles from € 45 / m² and white marbles such as Dionysos-Thassos from € 75 / m². The price - quality relationship is fundamental when choosing the right material. A good collaboration with the supplier company, will give you the most economical solution for your desired aesthetic result.
What kind of damages can happen to marbles?
Polishing wear, usually due to commercial acidic detergents. Blurry surface or unevenness of the polished surfaces is also common. Our recommendation is to clean the surfaces, with neutral detergents (pH 7). Absorption of moisture, stains, salts. Marble is like a living organism that absorbs moisture or stains through its pores. The higher the porosity, the greater the absorbency. To minimize the absorbency we recommend protecting the surfaces using special impregnation products.
Mechanical stress of surfaces, such as scratches, bumps, etc. that can be created by toys, heels, furniture movements and more, (if they are of very small thickness and size), can be restored locally.
What does stone impregnation mean? What does it offer? Which is its duration and cost?
Let's start with the fact that stones with zero absorption, do not exist. They all have absorbency, others less, others more. Impregnation products (such as HMK-S234), penetrate the stones, impregnate them and create a waterproof layer. So, water, stains of wine, oil, paint, coffee, mud, graffiti, moisture, etc. are not being absorbed, but they simply stay on the surface and then are removed easily. Also, impregnation prevents the formation of salts, yellowing, or rust on the surface of the stones.
Impregnation applies to all indoor and outdoor areas and can be done before or after installation even by non-professionals. Regarding the impregnation's duration: for ''low use'' areas (e.g houses) the procedure does not need to be repeated, if the surfaces are properly maintained. For large circulation areas, it is advisable to repeat the impregnation after 8-10 years. The cost of impregnation depends on the stone's surface and treatment and ranges from € 8-12 / m2.
What products should I use for the maintenance and cleaning of marbles?
For the cleaning of marbles we must use neutral detergents such as HMK-P324, green soap, etc. The use of acid-chlorine cleansers erodes the marbles and makes them more absorbent. For polishing maintenance, the use of an enhancer such as HMK-P323 for once a month is sufficient. It is forbidden to use acidic and caustic products (such as lemon juice, vinegar, sink cleaners etc.).
What is the difference between crystallization and impregnation?
Crystallization liquids create a superficial wax crust that doesn't provide stain protection making the surfaces more slippery. You will have to repeat the procedure after a short period of time. Impregnation, as we said earlier, penetrates into the marbles, creating a waterproof layer and protects them from any kind of stains for a long time.
