POLISHING AND RESURFACING FAQs
At Tile Cleaning Experts we specialise in tile polishing and resurfacing especially for natural stone. Check our FAQ’s to get answers to the most frequently ask question about our polishing and resurfacing services. Some of questions we we get includes what is polishing and resurfacing, will the floor shine, what floor types do we specialise in and is there is a minimum charge.
If you don’t find the answer you are looking for in relation to polishing and resurfacing services contact us either by email or phone.
What is polishing and resurfacing?
This is the method of changing the stone’s structural features in order to acquire a desired finish. Polishing and resurfacing is usually done by using special diamond-infused pads in order to bring the floor to a certain finish.
What is a sealer and how is it different from a polish?
A sealer is a liquid, containing a type of resin that is applied to a substrate that provides a protective film or barrier from stains, dirt, bacteria and deterioration as well as enabling you to achieve a better result when cleaning the surface. This barrier or film prevents liquids and dirt particles from absorbing or sinking in. Polishing on the other hand, is cosmetic and enhances the natural quality of the floor. Depending on how it is polished, any degree of shine can be obtained; from matte to high gloss. In comparison, sealing your floor to the finish you desire is many times cheaper than polishing and less time consuming but the finish doesn’t last as long as polishing and will require servicing regularly.
Will my floor have a shine?
Depending on the service that is performed on your floors, generally the only time your floor will have an increased sheen is when our technicians to specifically do so. You can choose the level of sheen that you floor will have, so don’t worry. The level of shine ranges from matte, satin, gloss and if you’re really keen – mirror finish.
Are your waxing or polish products toxic?
Your family, workers and customers’ safety is important, which is why we prefer to use non-toxic finishing agents. This not only protects your floors but the people that come into contact with it as well.
How often should I professionally service my floors?
We recommend every 1 – 2 years, depending on how heavy the foot traffic is and your own personal preference. Most of our regular customers schedule an appointment annually as both preventative and general maintenance. This may be more frequent in commercial and business locations.
How can I regularly clean my floors between visits?
To keep your floors looking like they’ve just been professionally cleaned, we first recommend sealing them. This will provide a protective barrier from spills and dirt, making it easier to clean yourself. Tile Cleaning Experts also recommends cleaning weekly cleaning and mopping with a pH neutral product, as well as doormats at entrances. This will avoid grit being walked onto the floor and prevent scratching. We do not recommend stronger solution for your regular weekly cleaning, as both acidic and alkaline based cleaners may affect the integrity of the sealer and can damage the timber.
How is your service charged?
All flooring specialists charge per square meter. We will ask you for an estimate of the area size that will be serviced when booking over the phone. Our experts will measure each room individually and confirm the dimensions and work prior to starting the job.
What floor types are do you specialise in?
We’re experts in all hard surfaced, and natural and manmade stone areas. Some common types we service (but are not limited to) are: ceramic, slate, limestone, travertine, sandstone, bluestone, terracotta, marble, granite, terrazzo, vinyl, concrete and porcelain. You can read more about the properties of these under types of floors’
How do I measure the area that needs to be serviced?
When quoting over the phone, the simplest way to measure the area is to multiply the width and length of the area to be cleaned. E.g. A room that is 2 meters long and 4 meters wide would be 4 x 2 = 8m2 in total. Our experts will determine the exact dimensions when on site and confirm before they start any work.
How do I organise a quote and how long will it take?
Simply, fill in our ‘free online quote’ section and a team member will contact you with the details you provide. In most cases, we can easily provide a quote to you over the phone within 5 – 10 minutes, answering any questions or concerns that you may have. On the day, Tile Cleaning Experts will inspect the area and confirm the quote before starting. In rare cases, we may need to attend the location to provide a quote. This can be discussed with you over the phone.
Will you help me move my furniture?
We ask that you clear the area that Tile Cleaning Experts is cleaning. Tile Cleaning Experts insurance coverage means we are only covered by our restoration services and cannot be held responsible for the damage to any furniture or items.
How can I prepare for a professional to come?
We ask that you move all furniture and items in the area to be cleaned, as well as any obstructing furniture between the main entrance point and the area to be cleaned to allow for our professional equipment and machines. A quick vacuum is appreciated to remove any loose dirt, dust and hair. We also recommend painter’s tape on cornices that may come into contact with the industrial hose (as a precautionary). You can read more about this in our blog section.
What are your hours and availability?
We understand that everyone’s schedule is a little different, so we are flexible in the hours that we work. Generally speaking, we work Monday – Saturday between 7am to 5pm. However, if there is a need for after-hours services we are happy to accomodate. Our technicians can usually attend the property within 2 – 10 days from making the booking at a time that suits you.
Is there a call out fee?
As our expert technicians are travelling to your premises, our call out fee is inline with industry standards, which is charged at $75 + GST if the job does not go ahead.
Is there a minimum charge?
We have a minimum charge of $250 + GST for all metro jobs. This is inline with standard industry rates.
LET US HELP
Our tile cleaning experts go that extra step and advise you on the best method and products to maintain your shiny and clean newly sealed floors.
Contact us today for a free online quote.