THE CHEMISTRY OF CLEANING
CHEMICAL AGITATION
ALL FOUR COMPONENTS ARE NEEDED FOR EFFECTIVE CLEANING
Understanding pH
• Alkalinity and acidity is measured on the pH scale.
• The pH of a chemical is derived from the dominance of either the Hydrogen (H) ion or the Hydroxide (OH) ion.
• Most soiling has a definite pH which is why pH is plays such an important role in cleaning. Most regular grime contains fatty acids making the majority of soils acidic.
• Many surfaces are sensitive to either alkaline or acid. For example wool is damaged by alkalis and fine stone is damaged by acids.
NEUTRAL – pH 7 is regarded as neutral.
Pure water is neutral
ALKALINE – pH is greater thasn 7. i.e. 7 to 14.
Sodium bicarbonate, ammonia, caustic, chlorine bleach
ACID – pH less than 7. e.i 7 to 0
Vinegar, citric acid, phosphoric acid, battery acid
IDENTIFICATION OF STONE & TILES
Type and Identification
Granite is very hard stone with a grainy appearance.
Marble is a porous stone with a fine grainy appearance and distinct veins.
Limestone is a soft and porous stone with a very fine grainy appearance often with visible fossils.
Travertine is a porous stone. Naturally has open pits in the surface which are sometimes filled and honed.
Bluestone is a durable porous stone with grey-blue tones often with open pits and pores.
Sandstone is an extremely porous stone with a gritty appearance. Mostly found in tan/cream colouring or brown/grey.
Slate is a porous stone with a rough split-face finish. Honed finishes are also available. Mostly are grey or tan/red.
Polished, Honed Exfoliated (flamed) Sandblasted, Sawn.
Polished, Honed, Sawn, Tumbled.
Polished, Honed, Sawn, Tumbled.
Polished, Honed, Filled and honed, Sawn, Tumbled.
Semi-polished, Honed, Sawn, Exfoliated (flamed), Sandblasted.
Honed, Sawn, Split faced, Sandblasted, Tool worked.
Honed, Sawn, Split faced, Tumbled.
Internal and external flooring, Benchtops, Building facades, Paving
Internal flooring, Benchtops, Feature walls, Building facades, Washrooms
Pre-test. Do not use on honed or polished.
Never use any acid on marble.
Internal flooring, Feature walls, Washrooms Never use any acid on limestone. Avoid heavy caustic detergents. Avoid heavy caustic detergents.
Internal flooring, External flooring, Pool surrounds, paving, Feature walls, Washrooms
External flooring, Construction, Pool surrounds, Paving, Feature walls
External flooring, Landscape walling, Construction, Pool surrounds, Paving, Feature walls
External flooring, Internal flooring, Landscape walling, Pool surrounds, Paving, Stack stone
Never use any acid on travertine.
Pre-test. Do not use on honed or polished.
Pre-test. Rinse and neutralise.
Pre-test. Do not use on honed slate.
Granite is an igneous stone. Granite has low porosity. Absorption is 0.02-0.4%.
Marble is a calcite metamorphic stone. Marble has fair porosity. Absorption is 0.06-1.0%.
Limestone is a calcite sedimentary stone. Limestone has high porosity. Absorption is 0.5-20.0%.
Travertine is a calcite sedimentary stone. Travertine has fair porosity. Absorption is 0.1-2.5%.
Bluestone is an igneous stone. It is also called Basalt. Bluestone has fair porosity. Absorption is 1-2%.
Sandstone is a sedimentary stone. Sandstone has high porosity. Absorption is 1-20%.
Slate is a metamorphic stone. Slate has fair porosity. Absorption is 0.1-0.5%.
Responds best to solvent borne sealers. Low solids sealer best for polished granite.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Low solid sealer best for polished marble.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Water borne best for very porous limestone.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Low solid sealer best for polished travertine.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Water borne best for very porous bluestone.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Water borne best for very porous sandstone.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Slate flooring often sealed with topical sealers.
Type and Identification
Ceramic tiles are made from clay pressed and fires at lower levels than porcelain. They are
are contain more silica than ceramic tiles are fired at higher temperatures, making them virtually non-
are made from fine China clay. They are pressed and fired at extremely high (+1250°C) temperatures.
is a porous tile made from clay that is baked, not fired, characterised by earthy browns and reds.
Terrazzo is an agglomerate tile made of marble chips set in cementitious base which is then cut and polished.
Clay is a specific clay which is moulded and baked. Normally used for paving and pottery.
Concrete and cement products are composed of stone aggregate and clean sand bonded together with lime based cement.
Glazed wide range of colours and patterns. Colour limited to the surface. Not rectified.
Glazed or unglazed. Anti-slip surfaces. Wide range of colours throughout tile body.
Glazed, polished, Unpolished, textured, anti-slip surfaces.
Normally a dull non smooth surface which is mostly also slightly undulating. Often has irregular edges.
Mainly internal. Often in bathrooms and kitchens. Too slippery for external applications.
Internal flooring & wall
External flooring & wall
Commercial and domestic areas.
Internal flooring & wall
External flooring & wall
Commercial and domestic areas.
Internal flooring & wall
External flooring & wall
Often used for balconies and walkways.
Not Hydrochloric or Flourine acid.
Not Hydrochloric or Flourine acid.
Not Hydrochloric or Flourine acid. Avoid heavy caustic detergents.
Can be discoloured by acid. Pre-test.
Semi-polished. Commercial flooring Change room partitioning. Do not use any acids.
Semi-smooth. External flooring, walkways, roads. Can be discoloured by acid. Pre-test.
Wood float, Smooth steel float, Honed & polished, Textured.
External flooring, Internal flooring, Driveways, walkways, roads, structure. Can be discoloured by acid. Pre-test.
Absorption is nil.
Absorption is very low. They cannot be sealed. No sealing required.
Absorption is negligible on unpolished porcelain and low on polished porcelain. Only seal polished porcelain with purpose built solvent sealer.
Terracotta is a very porous tile. Topical sealer + floor finish. Solvent or water based impregnating sealer.
Terrazzo is a moderately porous tile.
Topical sealer + floor finish. Solvent or water based impregnating sealer for vertical partitions.
Clay is a moderately porous substrate. Solvent or water borne sealers.
Concrete is a very porous substrate. Concrete is alkaline and reacts with acids. Only use acid if necessary.
Solvent or water borne sealers. Concrete often sealed with topical sealers.
CHOOSING THE CORRECT CLEANER
CHOOSE THE CORRECT STONE OR TILE CLEANER
Tough Soiling
Compacted soils – Soil build-ups – bakes on carbons
Discolouration – Mould & Mildew – Staining – Sanitation
Multi-task – Wide range of soils – Safe on most surfaces – Easy to use Delicate Substrate – Polished Flooring – Wooden Flooring – Near Metals Residues & Scale – Detergent residue – Limescale – Efflorescence
– High caustic level – Powerful wetting – Ultra concentrated – Chlorinated – Powerful destaining – Good emulsification – Low caustic level – Powerful wetting – Good dilution rates – Neutral pH – Good emulsification – Safe on all surfaces – Powerful wetting – Ultra concentrate – Fit for purpose – DG Corrosive 8 – Hazardous – Gloves and goggles –
– Hazardous – Gloves and goggles
Non DG rating – Irritant, low VOC – User friendly
No DG rating – Irritant, low VOC – User friendly – Some DG corrosive –Hazardous – Gloves and goggles
Tough Soiling
Compacted soils – Soil build-ups – bakes on carbons
TILE & STONE DEEP CLEAN / HD CLEANING
Mould & Mildew – Staining – Sanitation
T&G Power
Industrial, Kitchen, Food Manufacture, Commercial
Dilute 1:10 to 1:100
Performance
• Radical strength cleaning power for serious grime.
• Outstanding penetration and wetting chemistry for ultimate cleaning.
• Excellent for baked-on carbons, compacted soiling and heavy oils.
• Ultra-concentrated, providing economical dilution ratios.
Surface compatibility
• Safe for use on tiles and concrete. Use with caution on fine stone.
• Not suitable for use on surfaces coated with a floor polish or wax.
Safety
• Classified as corrosive class 8. Use gloves and goggles.
5L | 170233
CHOOSING THE CORRECT CLEANER
TILE & STONE DEEP CLEAN / HD CLEANING
Tough Soiling
Compacted soils – Soil build-ups – bakes on carbons
Mould & Mildew – Staining – Sanitation
Wide range of soils – Safe on most surfaces – Easy to use
Chlorofoam
Commercial, Institutional, Domestic
Dilute 1:32 (20mL per 1L of water)
Performance
• Thickened hard surface cleaner and sanitiser.
• Excellent foaming action sanitises & kills bacteria.
• Powerful mould & mildew remover.
• Ideal for use with foaming gun.
Surface compatibility
• Safe for use on all natural stone, tiles, concrete & unsealed vinyl.
• Not suitable for use on surfaces coated with a floor polish or wax.
Safety
• Not classified as dangerous according to ADG code 7.4.
• Hazardous, use gloves and goggles.
TILE & STONE DEEP CLEAN / HD CLEANING
T&G Degreaser
Commercial, Institutional, Domestic
Heavy soil: Dilute 1:4 to 1:10 (100mL / 1L of water)
General Purpose: Dilute 1:50 (20L / 1L of water)
Maintenance: Dilute 1:100 (10mL / 1L of water)
High Pressure Cleaners: 1:20 (50mL / 1L of Water)
Performance
• Removes tough dirt, grease & oils from tiles, grout and concrete floors.
• Quickly penetrates dirt, grease & oil.
• Rinses easily & quickly.
• Economical formula.
Surface compatibility
• Safe on all man-made tiles, natural stone products, grout and concrete at recommended dilutions.
• Do not use or allow T&G Degreaser to contact painted surfaces, non-ferrous metal surfaces and polymer coated flooring.
Safety
• Classified as an irritant. Wear protective gloves and goggles.
CHOOSING THE CORRECT CLEANER
CHOOSE THE CORRECT MAINTENANCE CLEANER MAINTENANCE CLEANING
& Stone
Delicate Substrate
Polished Flooring
Wooden Flooring
Vinyl & Linoleum
T&G Cleaner LF
Commercial, Institutional, Domestic
Dilute 1:100 to 1:500
Performance
• New generation chemistry for the non-residual, non-soil build.
• Provides anti-resoiling activity to the cleaned floor.
• Specially designed for use in auto scrubbers.
• Non-corrosive and non foaming.
Surface compatibility
• Safe for use on all porcelain, ceramic, terrazzo, quarry, granite, marble and construction stone surfaces.
Safety
• Classified as irritant.
5L | 170947
Porcelain
Ceramic
Granite, Marble
Sandstone
Tough Soiling
Compacted soils – Soil build-ups – bakes on carbons
TILE & STONE DEEP CLEAN / HD CLEANING
Discolouration
Mould & Mildew – Staining – Sanitation
Multi-task
Wide range of soils
Safe on most surfaces
Easy to use Delicate Substrate
Polished Flooring
Wooden Flooring
Near Metals
T&G Restore / Grout Restore
Industrial, Commercial, Sport, Leisure, Domestic
Dilute 1:10 to 1:100
Performance
• Outstanding penetration and wetting chemistry for ultimate cleaning.
• T&G Restore provised amazing cleaning with low hazard profile.
• Tackles limescale, soap scum, efflorescence & detergent residue.
• Ultra-concentrated, providing economical dilution ratios.
Surface compatibility
• Safe for use on ceramic and porcelain tiles.
• Not suitable for marble and fine stone and acid sensitive surfaces.
Safety
• T&G Restore and Grout Restore 20 classified as irritant.
• Grout Restore 60 - corrosive class 8. Use gloves and goggles.
Residues & Scale
Detergent residue
Limescale
STONE & TILE CARE PRODUCT GUIDE
SOILS AND STAINING
The accurate identification of the soil or staining agent you are attempting to remove is vital if you are to choose the correct product to use and enjoy any measure of success. Listed below are commonly found soils and stains that you will most probably encounter.
Limescale & Soap Scum Mould & Mildew
Detergent Residue Build-up
Neglected Grout Lines
Urine Spot & Stain
Grease & Grime
Efflorescence
LIMESCALE & SOAP SCUM
What is Limescale and Soap Scum
Limescale and Soap Scum are closely related. Limescale or hard water scale occurs when water evaporates and leaves mineral salts behind on the surface. They are also deposited on the surface as a result of heat. (Hence the scale build up in your kettle). Soap Scum is a combination of these hard water salts, body fats and the soap itself.
Where is it found?
These deposits are found where water is deposited on a surface which is repeatedly getting wet and the drying, such as pool surrounds, washroom surfaces, decorative fountains, etc.
How is it removed?
Hard water salts and soap scum are alkaline and respond well to acidic cleaners such as Grout Restore and T&G Restore, however agitation is often required for stubborn deposits. Where acaid cleaners cannot be used (e.g. on fine stone) Fine Stone Gel is the ideal choice.
Limescale and Efflorescence
Limescale and efflorescence are often found in the same areas (namely areas subjected to water) and can sometimes look very similar. Both limescale and efflorescence are treated in similar way with the exception of a focus on dry removal and post sealing with efflorescence.
Limescale and Soap Scum
This procedure is suited to ceramic, porcelain and acid resistant surfaces. Use Stone Gel Pro when cleaning marble and natural stone.
Procedure
1. Application: Apply T&G Restore (dilute 1:10) using a scouring pad, sponge or mop bucket. Grout Restore 20/60 can also be used.
2. Agitate: Agitate the area thoroughly using a scouring pad, brush or slow speed rotary scrubber. Allow 15-30 minutes dwell time. Do not allow to dry.
3. Rinse: Remove the dissolve soiling or with a wet pick-up vacuum. Washroom surface can often be washed down with running water.
4. Dry: Assist drying by squeegeeing or/and drying the cleaned areas.
NOTE: T&G Power or T&G Cleaner LF also works very well on soap scum using the above procedure. Outdoor areas can be rinsed down with a high pressure washer. Ventilate the area to facilitate fast drying times, Restrict foot traffic until totally dry. Use Stone Gel Pro (undiluted) when cleaning marble and natural stone.
MOULD & MILDEW
What is Mould & Mildew?
Mould & Mildew is fungal growth which shows itself as unsightly black or green marks or patches in washrooms, on garden, building walls and driveways. Mould mostly grows on porous surfaces which hold the moisture it needs to grow. Hence attractive sandstone walls soon show unsightly mold growth and likewise the grout in bathrooms are the first to display it.
Where is it found?
Mould and Mildew occur in areas where water and moisture are prevalent. Mostly it grows prolifically when the area is warm, moist and out of direct sunlight.
How is it removed?
Mould & Mildew is most effectively and efficiently removed with Cleanmax Chlorofoam (Chlorine detergent). Good agitation is required to remove the “mass” of the growth. Other chemicals which can be used are strong “Quat” sanitisers such as Maximicrobial.
Prevention
Mould & Mildew growth can be partially or sometimes totally prevented by sealing the substrate surface with a water repelling penetrating sealer such as Stone Sealer Pro. Mould may still grow on these sealed surface if atmospheric conditions are right but it can normally be removed with just a mild wash.
Mould & Mildew
This procedure is suited to both external and internal applications.
Procedure
1. Application: Apply Chlorofoam (use undiluted for severe cases and dilute 1:10 for lesser areas) suing a scouring pad, sponge or mop bucket.
2. Agitate: Agitate the area thoroughly using a brush (walls, counters and small areas) a slow speed rotary scrubber or deck scrubber. Allow at least 30 minutes dwell time.
3. Rinse: Washroom and external surfaces can mostly be washed down with running water or a high pressure washer.
4. Repeat: If the mould & mildew is not totally removed, repeat the last two steps.
5. Dry: Assist drying by squeegeeing or/and drying the cleaned areas. Increase natural ventilation if possible.
NOTE: Chlorine can damage grass and plants. Ensure suitable measures are taken to avoid contact. Chlorofoam can bleach damage some fabrics. Wear suitable protective clothing.
DETERGENT RESIDUE BUILD-UP
What is Detergent Residue Build-up?
Tiled flooring shopping centres, hospitals, schools and similar institutions are mostly kept relatively clean by regular maintenance cleaning. However, this regular cleaning regime often creates a resistent chemical residue build-up on the tiled surface and grout lines. This phenomenon is not easy to identify at first sight and is normally mistaken for regular soiling which results in severe cleaning headaches when the cleaner attempts to remove it using alkaline cleaning degreasers or floor strippers.
Where is it found?
Detergent residue build-up occurs nearly everywhere tiled flooring is regularly cleaned. Homes, shopping centres, institutions, etc.
How is it removed?
Detergent residue build-up requires a blend of acidic agents and emulsifiers to remove. The T&G Restore is the ideal answer for this problem. Build-ups which have occured over many years may require dwell times and vigorous agitation.
Prevention
Prevention relies on a change in the maintenance cleaning programme. This involves using correct dilutions of cleaning solutions, using low residue products, improving “dirty water” pick-up on auto scrubbers, using a wet pick-up machine instead of a mop bucket. The ideal solution which ticks all these boxes is the Cleanmax Cleaner LF.
Detergent Residue Build-Up
Procedure
1. Application: Apply T&G Restore (dilute 1:5 to 1:10) onto an area which can be worked within 30 minutes.
2. Agitate: Scrub this area using a slow speed rotary machine and pad. (Use a brush for uneven and rough surfaces). Walls and vertical surfaces will require manual agitation with a deck scrubber or scouring pad. Allow 10 to 20 minutes dwell time.
3. Extraction Clean: Clean and extract using an auto scrubber or wet pick-up. Rinse the area thoroughly with a 1:500 solution of T&G Cleaner LF to neutralise any residual alkalinity.
NOTE: Large areas can be efficiently done using an auto scrubber. Lift the auto scrubber squeegee and apply the solution. Do a second pass where the area is scrubbed and extract. During this second pass a 1:500 solution of T&G Cleaner LF can be used to neutralise and rinse in one step. Ventilate the area to facilitate fast drying times. Restrict foot traffic until totally dry.
NEGLECTED GROUT LINES
What are Neglected Grout Lines?
Grout lines, especially those found in flooring applications are often times an eyesore on an otherwise beautifully tiled floor. Grout lines are most commonly constructed with a cementicous base and are extremely porous, acting like a sponge in between the tiles. In addition to this unfortunate characteristic, grout lines are normally the lowest point on the tiled surface, into which cleaning detergent and dirt residue naturally migrate without being rinsed away. It is little wonder that the grout lines mostly are found with stubborn soil build-ups and tough stains.
Where is it found?
Anywhere there are tiles.
How are they restored?
Due to the fact that the soiling in the gout lines contains high levels of detergent they are most successfully cleaned using an acid cleaner with good emulsifying properties such as T&G Restore. Often specific attention has to be given to agitation because machine scrubbers seldom reach into the grout line. A follow up clean with Chlorofoam will remove any residual staining and create a near perfect finish. [Do not mix T&G Restore and Chlorofoam or free chlorine gas will be emitted which is poisonous.]
Prevention
You can never stop grout lines from getting dirty, however you can dramatically improve the situation by sealing grout lines with a good quality sealer such as Solv Sealer Pro and ensuring that the water pick-up function on any maintenance machine is in good condition.
Neglected Grout Lines
On ceramic and porcelain tiles. For grout on fine stone use this procedure with T&G Cleaner LF or Fine Stone Gel
Procedure
1. Application: Apply T&G Restore LF (dilute 1:5 to 1:10) onto an area which can be worked within 30 minutes. Cover the whole area, not just the grout lines.
2. Agitate: Scrub this area using a slow speed rotary machine and brush. (The use of a “Grout Brush” is ideal for this application). Walls and vertical surfaces will require manual agitation with a scrubbing brush. Allow 10 to 20 minutes dwell time.
3. Extraction Clean: Clean and extract using an auto scrubber, wet pick-up vacuum or mop bucket. Rinse the area thoroughly with a 1:500 solution of T&G Cleaner LF or clean water.
NOTE: Large areas can be efficiently done using an auto scrubber. Lift the auto scrubber squeegee and apply the solution. Do a second pass where the area is scrubbed and extract. During this second pass a 1:500 solutin of T&G Cleaner LF can be used to neutralise and rinse in one step. A second step clean using Chlorofoam can be done using the same procedure as above to remove any residual stains. Ventilate the area to facilitate fast drying times. Restrict foot traffic until totally dry.
URINE STAINS & ODOUR
What is Urine Stains & Odour?
When urine exists the body it is acidic. (Hence the etching and permanent staining on marble floors around toilets and urinals). As it dries it changes pH to alkaline and emits an ammonia odour. The resultant alkaline crystal contains the yellow urochrome yellow dye and bacteria which contributes to the mal-odour. If it dries out completely the odour can dissapear, but is reactivated by moist air or rewetting.
Where is it found?
Typically around toilets and urinals with higher saturation in grout lines.
How is it removed?
The alkaline urine crystal locks the bacteria and ammonia emitting agents inside. Disinfectants deodorisers on there own have very little effect. The alkaline crystal needs to be broken down and removed. An acidic detergent such as effectively breaks down and removes uric crystals. Removing the majority of the T&G Restore mal-odour and stain as well. If stubborn stains remain Chlorofoam can be used to de-stain the area.
Maintenance and Prevention?
The key to maintenance is to clean often. This enables the urine spills to be removed before they become the tough alkaline crystal. A fragranced washroom cleaner can be used.
Urine Stains & Odours
For ceramic, porcelain, sandstone, concrete and acid resistant surfaces.
Procedure
1. Application: Apply T&G Restore (dilute 1:20) using a scouring pad, sponge or mop bucket.
2. Agitate: Agitate the area thoroughly. A medium stiff brush will allow agitation of grout lines. Allow 10 - 30 minutes dwell time.
3. Rinse: Clean and rinse with clean water and assist drying by squeegeeing or / and drying the cleaned areas.
4. Sanitise: A washroom sanitiser / disinfectant can be used to remove any residual odour-causing germs.
NOTE: Chlorofoam can be used to remove stubborn staining (ensure T&G Restore is rinsed away before use of Chlorofoam). Chlorofoam will also destroy any remaining odour causing germs. Restrict foot traffic until totally dry. Urine Stains & Odours for ceramic, porcelain, sandstone, concrete and acid resistant surfaces.
GREASE & GRIME
Grease & Grime
General soiling, kitchens, dining areas, walkways, auto workshops, industry.
What is Grease & Grime?
Maintenance and restoration cleaning of all floors and walls in homes, businesses and institutions involves tackling a variety of oily, fatty oils and general grime. A combination of good quality cleaning equipment and purpose built grease cutting chemistry is needed to effectively emulsify and remove these oil-based soil deposits. Whilst strong alkaline / solvent blends are the most effective solutions to use, care should be taken to avoid damaging delicate surfaces. The ideal solutions for these applications is T&G Cleaner LF and T&G Power.
Procedure
1. Pre-treatment: Apply T&G Cleaner LF (dilute 1:5 to 1:10) onto an area which can be worked with, in not longer than 30 minutes. Use T&G Power for soil build-ups and tough applications.
2. Agitation: Scrub this area using a slow speed rotary machine and pad. (Use a brush or uneven and rough surfaces). Walls and vertical surfaces will require manual agitation with a deck scrubber or scouring pad. Allow 10 to 20 minutes dwell time.
3. Extraction Clean: Clean and extract using an auto scrubber or wet pick-up. Rinse the area throughly with clean water.
NOTE: Walls and outdoor areas can be rinsed down with a high pressure system. Ventilate the area to facilitate fast drying times. Restrict foot traffic until totally dry.
Wax films, Paint Spots & Oil Stains
Wax films, Paint spots and Oil stains
Includes the removal of many cosmetics, graffiti, bitumen, tar, putty, texta, greasy food stains and deep set oily grime.
Procedure
1. Preparation: Remove as much of the spill or stain by scraping or sponging off excess stain material.
2. Application: Apply T&G Cream using a scouring pad. Spread a thin layer over the whole stain and agitate well. Allow 2 - 15 minutes dwell time.
3. Extract: Remove the emulsified stain and chemical by sponging or with wet pick-up vacuum. Do not add water at this stage.
4. Repeat: If the stain is not totally removed, repeat the last two steps.
5. Rinse: Clean and rinse with a 1:50 solution of T&G Cleaner LF or T&G Degreaser followed by a rinse with clear water.
NOTE: Outdoor areas can be rinsed down with a high pressure system. Ventilate the area to facilitate fast drying times. Restrict foot traffic until totally dry.
What is Efflorescence?
Eflorescence is the result of mineral salts being carried to the surface of stone tiles or clay products by moisture. The moisture may come from beneath the tile due to the installation process or there maybe a sub-surface moisture source or it can come from moisture soaking into the top surface of the tile. As the moisture dries the mineral salts are left behind on the tile surface in the form of a white powder.
Where is it found?
Efflorescence is typically found around grout lines (floors and walls) and on cementicous & clay materials. It is often visible where there is evidence of excessive moisture pressence such as floor drain areas, water running down on a wall from a broken gutter.
How is it removed?
Efflorescence is best removed dry, by brushing. The addition of moisture will often cause more efflorescence. However, it may be necessary to remove the residual effloresence can be removed with an acid wash. Grout Restore or T&G Restore are both ideal for this application.
Prevention?
It is important to research the source of the moisture and take applicable preventive action to stop it recurring. Sealing the tile and grout with a penetrating sealer such as T&G Sealer Pro will dramatically reduce or totally prevent efflorescence. Sub-surface moisture surface must however be removed.
Efflorescence
For ceramic, porcelain, sandstone, concrete and acid resistant surfaces.
Procedure
1. Dry Removal: First vigorously dry brush / scrub the area to remove as much of the efflorescence as possible. If some still remains proceed to step 2.
2. Application: Sparingly apply Grout Restore 20 (dilute 1:20) using a mop, sponge or sprayer. Grout Restore 60 or T&G Restore can also be used.
3. Agitate: Agitate the area thoroughly using a scouring pad, brush (walls and small areas) or a slow speed rotary scrubber. Do not allow extra dwell time.
4. Rinse: Rinse with clean water or remove the dissolved soiling with a wet pick-up vacuum.
5. Dry: Assist speed drying by increasing natural ventilation where possible.
NOTE: Efflorescence is caused by water ingress into porous substrates, so it is important that only the minimum amount of moisture is used in this process. Ventilate the area to facilitate fast drying times. Avoid doing the job directly before nightfall or rain. Sealing the area after this process is highly recommended.
CHOOSING THE CORRECT SEALER
Penetrating Sealers
Choose the correct stone or tile sealer
Organic Staining
- Inhibit plant material stains
- Inhibit mould & mildew
- Inhibit pollution discolouration
Solvent Based:
- Better penetration in dense substrates
- Better performance in some applications
Water Based:
- Safe to use
- Environmentally friendly
- Non-flammable
- Often lower cost
Water Contaminants
- Inhibit efflorescence
- Prevent salt attack, spalling and stone degradation
Oily Stains
- Inhibit plant material stains
- Inhibit mould & mildew
- Inhibit pollution discolouration
T&G Cream Solv Sealer Pro
T&G Degreaser
T&G Cream
T&G Sealer Pro
Stone Sealer Gold
CHOOSING THE CORRECT SEALER
Internal Applications:
- Offices - Retail shops -Institutions
External Applications:
- Walkways
- Common areas
- Warehouse - Decks
Topical Sealers
Choose the correct stone or tile sealer
Tile, Fine Stones & Concrete
- Terracotta, quarry
- State
- Terrazzo
- Granite, Marble
- Limestone, Travertine
- Floated concrete
- Polished concrete
Solv Sealer Pro - Gloss and repairability
T&G Sealer Pro - UV resistant
Synthetic
- Vinyl - Linoleum
Secure Seal - Gloss and repairability
Note:
- Penetrating Sealers used in external applications help maintain slip ratings.
- Solv Sealer Pro is for internal use only.
