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PORCELAIN SLABS/ Laminam, Technogress

 

Porcelain stoneware slab is the material for interior decoration finishes, e.g. horizontal work surfaces such as kitchen worktops, bathroom countertops and tabletops, but also to cover vertical surfaces such as door panels. Laminam slabs are carefully made with porcelain stoneware by wet grinding of clayish natural raw materials, granite and metamorphic, feldspar-containing rocks and ceramic pigments, which are then compacted by special shaping process 1200°C with hybrid firing.

Thanks to the production process used, as well as the high-quality raw materials and firing temperatures, porcelain surfaces have exceptional features, including heat resistance, scratch resistance, resistance to weathering and stains. The extremely low porosity and low water absorption makes them the most hygienic surface material.

Porcelain is low-maintenance, moisture-resistant, scratch-resistant and stain-resistant. Completely inhospitable to germs and bacteria, porcelain tile is also among the easiest materials to clean.

 

Routine Cleaning

For daily cleaning of Laminam slabs, use warm water and, possibly, mild detergents (e.g. soap or worktop detergents), using a cloth or soft sponge. Rinse with plenty of water then dry the surface with a soft cloth or kitchen paper. To prevent an opaque film from forming, it is advisable not to use products containing wax. Do not use detergents or abrasive sponges.

 

Stain Removal

Natural and Soft Touch Finish

To remove stains or particularly resistant residues from the Laminam surface, we recommend preliminary cleaning with warm water and a mild detergent. If this should not be enough, use gradually stronger cleaning techniques, using specific products depending on the stain to be treated, such as:

  • Non-abrasive detergents with neutral pH
  • Slightly abrasive detergents
  • Acidic detergents (e.g. limescale remover) or basic detergents (e.g. bleach)
  • Solvent-based detergents (e.g. acetone)

Subsequently, rinse with water and dry. To eliminate any residue of dried materials deposited on the surface, such as chewing gum, remove by using a wooden or plastic scraper. After that clean with a mild detergent, using soft sponges or cloths.

If the worktop is stained with inks or felt-tip pens, promptly clean the area using specific detergents, such as: Paint thinner, Trichloroethylene, Turpentine or other solvent-based detergents available on the market. Avoid spreading the mark over the entire surface. Finally, rinse with water and dry.

Any stubborn graphite residues or any marks left by metal objects can be removed by direct contact with acids, such as limescale remover or commercially available muriatic acid, for 10 minutes, then rinse with water and dry. If necessary, use a slightly abrasive sponge, testing it before on a small portion of the material.

 

Polished Finish

Certain types of stains, unless they are removed quickly, may leave varyingly visible marks on the surface, which fall within the tolerance of the specific type of finishing. Promptly dry the surface with an absorbent cloth if you have spilled liquids such as coffee, red wine, tea, etc. without spreading the staining agent.

If the stain remains for a long time it will be difficult to remove completely. Bleach may be used to remove stubborn stains. Dampen a soft cloth with bleach and rub the surface for a few seconds. Most stains will no longer be visible just 2/3 minutes after application.

Alternatively, you can try direct contact on the surface. The detergent should be left on for no longer than 10 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly – always and in any case – with plenty of water and, finally, dry the surface. If necessary, clean several times.

  • Do not increase the contact time.
  • Acidic products (such as a limescale remover), acetone and ammonia may also be used.
  • Do not, under any circumstances, use abrasive sponges or materials, such as detergents containing abrasive particles, metal scouring pads or steel tools.
  • Do not use detergents with strong basic pH (higher than 11) for cleaning.

Filo Series with Metallic Finish

  • Do not use acids or products containing acids, such as limescale remover, on products in the Filo Series.
  • Do not, under any circumstances, use abrasive sponges or materials, such as detergents containing abrasive particles, metal scouring pads or steel tools.
  • Alcohol for domestic use can be used, or basic detergents (such as bleach) as required for more stubborn dirt, making sure to rinse with plenty of water.
  • Clean by using a soft sponge dampened with water and detergent, then rinse and dry the treated surface using a dry cloth to remove any residues of dirt or detergent.

 

 

PORCELAIN TILES 

 

Porcelain tile is low-maintenance, moisture-resistant, scratch-resistant and stain-resistant. Completely inhospitable to germs and bacteria, porcelain tile is also among the easiest materials to clean.

 

Glazed Tile:

For glazed porcelain tiles, use the following instructions for general cleaning:

  • Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor. An untreated dry dust mop is recommended instead of a broom.
  • Mop the floor with a mild cleaning solution (do not use wax, oil-based, or abrasive cleaners).
  • Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean and clear water.
  • Drying is also recommended – to increase the shine and to prevent water spots.

 

Textured Tile:

A textured porcelain tile surface requires additional cleaning procedures. A standard wet mopping will not effectively clean a textured surface. For cleaning textured surfaces, follow these instructions:

  • Sweep or vacuum dust and debris from the floor. When sweeping, use a soft-bristle broom and sweep in two directions. First follow the direction of the tile and then sweep diagonally. This will ensure the removal of all foreign material residing in the texture.
  • Saturate the tile with a neutral cleaning solution, such as vinegar, with hot water and stir. Allow the cleaning solution to remain on the floor for 5–10 minutes. Scrub the floor with a brush once more using a two-direction method.
  • Rinse the floor with clean, clear water to remove the cleaning solution.

For high traffic locations, it is recommended to clean the floor at least once per day and wet mop at regular intervals.

 

Always Remember:

  • Do not clean porcelain tile flooring with ammonia or with cleaners that contain bleach and/or acid. Acid and ammonia-based cleaners may modify grout color.
  • Do not use wax, oil-based, abrasive cleaners or sealants.
  • Agents that contain any dyes or colors are not recommended.
  • Use rugs at entrances to prevent dirt and grit from being tracked onto the tile flooring from outdoors.
  • Do not use steel wool pads, because loose steel particles may create rust stains in the grout.

Disclaimer:

Please note that the information on this page is a general summary of industry-accepted standards and tips regarding natural stone considerations, applications and care. We have compiled this information to help you in your stone selection and care. MGSI is not involved in geological testing and has no formal proof of the information presented in the article and relies on industry wide information and standards. MGSI will not be responsible for any direct or indirect claims and damages, resulting from the improper application and/or interpretation of this information. Please note that natural stone varies substantially. Ask your stone specialist what works best for your project

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