Travertine tiles are a popular choice for their timeless beauty and versatility. To ensure they maintain their luster and durability over time, proper cleaning and sealing are crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to effectively clean and seal your travertine tiles, allowing you to enjoy their natural elegance for years to come.

Pre-Sealing

When using travertine in specific environments, such as around saltwater pools or seaside residences, it is essential to take extra precautions. We recommend using Spirit Premium Consolidator for complete and total consolidation in these environments. Methods of application include spraying, brushing, microfiber applicator, and dip sealing. This consolidation process helps protect the tiles from the corrosive effects of saltwater. For further information on stone consolidation, please feel free to contact Spirit Sealers.

If Spirit Premium Consolidator is not used, Spirit Pre Seal is an excellent alternative for providing added water resistance to travertine tiles. This is particularly beneficial in shower cubicles, around swimming pools, or when using dark-coloured grout on light-coloured stone. Spirit Pre Seal acts as a grout release for hard-to-grout surfaces and wall pointing, making the grouting process much more manageable.

Pre-Sealing Instructions

For total coverage, you can dip-seal the travertine tiles, covering all six sides with Spirit Pre Seal. However, it’s crucial not to stack drying stones against each other without proper airflow. Allow the tiles to breathe, and remove any excess sealer within 5 minutes to ensure optimal results. If you have any doubts or questions about pre-sealing, don’t hesitate to reach out to Spirit Sealers for guidance.

Initial Cleaning and Grout Haze Removal

The first step in the sealing process is to clean the travertine tiles thoroughly and remove any grout haze that may have accumulated during installation. Travertine can be sensitive to acids, so it’s essential to avoid using acid-based cleaners for this purpose.

Cleaning Steps:

  1. Sweep and Vacuum: Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the area to remove loose debris and dirt from the tiles.
  2. Use Spirit Neutral Cleaner: Dilute 20 parts of clean water to 1 part of Spirit Neutral Cleaner in a bucket and apply it to the area that needs cleaning. Use a broom to ensure even distribution of the solution.
  3. Allow Solution to Sit: Let the cleaning solution sit on the tiles for 2-3 minutes. If you notice it drying too quickly, add more cleaner to keep it wet. Clean the tiles in manageable sections.
  4. Scrub with Spirit Doodlebug: Scrub the area with a Spirit Doodlebug, a scouring pad set with a multi-directional head that can easily reach hard-to-clean areas.
  5. Rinse and Remove Excess: Remove the cleaning solution with a dense mop and rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. If available, use a wet/dry vacuum for optimal results.
  6. Avoid Acid-Based Cleaners: It’s crucial not to use any acid-based cleaners on travertine tiles to prevent etching. If grout haze persists, a light dilution of Spirit HDC can be used, followed by a rinse with Spirit Neutral Cleaner.

Sealing Travertine Tiles

After the initial cleaning, the travertine tiles should be allowed to dry completely before proceeding with the sealing process. It is essential to choose a breathable penetrating sealer to ensure long-lasting protection without affecting the natural appearance of the stone.

Sealing Steps:

  1. Select the Right Sealer: We recommend using Spirit Premium Seal for the best results. Spirit NPS and Spirit Water-Based Premium Seal are also suitable options.
  2. Test First: Before applying the sealer to the entire surface, test it on a spare piece of travertine to ensure compatibility and the desired outcome.
  3. Application: Use a Spirit Microfiber Applicator to apply the sealer evenly to the tiles. Apply two coats with approximately one hour of drying time between each coat. Follow the instructions on the sealer’s can or bottle closely for best results.

Maintenance and Re-Sealing

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your travertine tiles looking their best and extend the life of the sealer.

Re-Sealing Considerations

  • Weather conditions, harsh cleaning methods using high-pressure cleaners, and overuse of alkaline, acid, or solvent-based cleaners can affect the sealer’s performance and potentially damage the substrate.
  • Follow the appropriate Spirit Guide for your specific travertine substrate to ensure the best protection and longevity of the sealer.

Conclusion

By following these comprehensive steps for cleaning and sealing travertine tiles, you can preserve their natural beauty and enhance their durability. At Spirit Sealers, we are committed to providing premium-quality sealers and cleaning products to protect and maintain your stone and tile surfaces. For personalized guidance or more information on our products, feel free to contact us.