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Testimonials

Thank you Tile Cleaners ® for dealing with the solvent sealer I had and resealing my hallway; I know it's a pain but you did a great job. I will definitely call you again as I need help with my tiles in the office.

Paul Gold, Gold Coast, QLD

I noticed that some of the tiles in my bathroom walls were loose and the grout was coming off. I am a very busy so kept on postponing calling someone to fix it. One day I got home and the loose tiles were lying broken on the floor. Can you imagine my frustration? I rang my brother in panic and he gave me Tile Cleaners' contact details. I rang them straight away. The guys told me I needed a tiler and professional regrouting work done so I thought it would take ages to fix my problem. However they organized the work very well. I had my tiles fixed on Friday night the same week and the entire bathroom regrouted on Saturday. Thank you some much for your quick help; it was such a relief.

Kerry McMyre, Mosman, NSW

My mother's tiles were old and ugly, as she has been living in the same house her entire life without ever really taking care of her tiles. I called Tile Cleaners to get advice on what to do with them. They came to her house the next day to have a look at my mum's tiles. I am very satisfied with how patient and highly professional you were with my mother. I am sorry I couldn't be there when you arrived, and I am really impressed by how you managed to explain everything to my mom and help her out. Thank you for doing a great job.

Angela Coopers, Concord, NSW

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Limestone Sealer favicon.ico - Molonglo Valley

Limestone is a sedimentary rock which is formed at the bottom of the ocean. It consists wholly or mainly of calcium carbonate. In its pure state it is white but it may be coloured by other materials. This calcite is sourced primarily from the shells and bones of marine organisms. The sediment that builds up preserves these organisms into fossils. Over millions of years the heat and pressure cause a chemical reaction which turns this sediment into limestone.

Limestone floor is actually quite porous and prone to scratching, staining and fracturing. It also needs to be allowed to breath, instead of being covered by synthetic sealers or urethane. We offer the right solution to protect your Limestone by using highly penetrating impregnating sealers.

favicon.ico Polished Limestone TilesThe primary cause for polished stone floors becoming dull is walking on them. Prolonged foot traffic grinds and packs in dust, sand, and grit. Although the scratching that occurs is very fine, it eventually covers the majority of the surface and over time dulls the finish to the point where it loses its reflective properties. To make your stone surfaces smooth and reflective, we employ the use of high speed polishers.

Limestone is usually used in kitchens, floors, walls, bathrooms, dining rooms, around swimming pools, building foyers, public areas and facades. Since ancient times, stone has been popular as a building and decorating material. Its strength, durability, excellent insulation properties, ability to be shaped, and the variety of stone types and colours make it an exceptionally versatile building material. The porosity and makeup of limestone does however leave it prone to certain types of damage if unsealed.

Protecting Limestone

The longevity and usefulness of limestone tiles can be extended if it is effectively sealed against the ingress of damaging liquids and minerals.

Polished Limestone favicon.icoMany older buildings have durable limestone flooring. This is the chalky porous type typical of most French and Spanish limestone. Etched by acids, including soft drinks. Absorbs oils and other liquids and is more easily stained than marble. Composed of Calcite and some Magnesium. Common colours are black, gray, white, yellow and brown. Has a smooth granular surface. Varies in hardness. Should be sealed with a penetrating sealer to prevent staining and reduce soiling. Should only be cleaned with neutral pH detergents. Because it is soft, it should never be cleaned at pressures above 800 PSI and then only if the grout is in good condition.

Professional regular maintenance will be required to maintain its honed or polished appearance. Limestone looks best with a honed or low/medium sheen appearance however many people insist on a high shine finish. Limestone will never have the gloss of marble or granite. Some low calcite limestone can be extremely difficult to polish and therefore vitrification would be required. Vitrification however can give the stone an unnatural plastic appearance if repeated too often.


Sealing Limestone Floors

All limestone is highly porous - a tablespoon of water on a limestone surface will be absorbed in seconds, although it does vary in porosity from piece to piece. Porosity is also affected by its finish - highly polished limestone is a little harder to penetrate than limestone with a honed (matt) finish.

Due to its high porosity it is particularly important for limestone to be sealed with a high quality impregnating sealer which will not affect its slip resistance or look. Limestone is used both outdoors and indoors, and our impregnating sealers will seal limestone equally well in either.

Limestone can be difficult to maintain if a proper maintenance cycle is not put in place from the point of installation. As it is usually not polished, the problem of scratching is not as big an issue as it is with marble, however if proper barrier matting is not introduced even a honed surface will lose its attractiveness. The most important factor to consider with the maintenance of limestone is the possibility of staining.

Limestone's calcite composition makes it susceptible to acid attack from spilt food and drink. Its high porosity can also mean oil will permeate the surface and leave staining if it is not properly sealed with a penetrating / impregnating sealer.

Pre-Sealing Preparation

  1. Any surface to be sealed should be clean and looking just as you want it before it is sealed - it may be impossible to remove stains after sealing without having to strip the sealer again. Acidic cleaners should not be used on limestone as it will damage it.
  2. Limestone must have no other coating such as wax or a topical sealer before it's sealed, so any such coating must be removed before sealing.
  3. Floor must be thoroughly dry before applying any sealer.

Our Limestone Floor Restoration service will bring back your limestone tiles & grout to its best possible condition, and protect them for years to come.

Protection from Acid Etching

It is very difficult to seal limestone against acid attack.
Limestone and other calcite based stone such as marble and travertine are prone to acid etching. Limestone is immediately 'etched' (eaten / corroded) by any acidic material on contact - including lemon juice, cola, wine and champagne. For this reason the honed (matt) look is popular, as it doesn't show the matt etch marks as much as polished limestone. In any case, acidic substances should be cleaned up as soon as possible, and limestone should not be used outdoors in areas where there is acid rain.

Limestone Floor Care & Maintenance

Limestone is a very hard tile to keep clean especially if it is not sealed. It does not go good in wet conditions so the best way to take care of youre Limestone is to get sealed.

Do’s:

  • Clean spill-ups right away
  • Seal limestone floors since it’s made from natural stone
  • Place a mat at each doorway
  • Use a Microfiber mop to clean floors
  • Clean floors regularly

Don’ts:

  • Never use bleach, ammonia or vinegar to clean limestone floors
  • Don’t use cleaners that are acidic
  • Never use an abrasive cleaner or scouring pad.

Protection from Acid Etching

It is very difficult to seal limestone against acid attack.

Limestone and other calcite based stone such as marble and travertine are prone to acid etching. Limestone is immediately etched (eaten / corroded) by any acidic material on contact, including lemon juice, cola, wine and champagne. For this reason the honed (matt) look is popular, as it doesn't show the matt etch marks as much as polished limestone. In any case, acidic substances should be cleaned up as soon as possible, and limestone should not be used outdoors in areas where there is acid rain.

We provide specialised cleaning, stripping & sealing solutions for limstone floor surfaces.

Our equipment can handle both domestic and commercial cleaning jobs, leaving your floors spotless and hygienic.

Frequently Asked Questions


When we talk about a "sealer," we are referring to a liquid or carrier that contains a resin. This substance is applied to porous surfaces, whether they are natural stone or man-made materials. The primary function of a sealer is to provide protection against staining caused by water and/or oil-based materials. By applying the sealer, you can prevent these substances from penetrating and staining the surface. Additionally, a sealer can enhance the overall cleaning results by making it easier to clean and maintain the surfaces effectively.

Sealing limestone tiles is highly important for their protection and longevity. Unlike polishes, sealers are specifically formulated to prevent liquids and dirt particles from penetrating the natural stone. It is crucial to have your limestone tiles sealed, ideally when they are first installed. This initial sealing can provide effective protection for up to 15 years. To ensure the preservation of your limestone floors and prevent any accidental permanent damage, it is advisable to contact us promptly after the installation so that we can apply the necessary sealant and safeguard them from potential harm.

At Tile Cleaners®, we offer a range of high-quality sealers specifically designed for sealing limestone tiles. You have the option to choose between an Impregnating Sealer or a Topical Sealer, depending on your specific requirements and preferences. Our goal is to provide you with multiple choices to ensure that you can select the most suitable sealer for your limestone tiles, guaranteeing effective and long-lasting protection.

When it comes to sealing limestone pavers around swimming pools, our top recommendation is our high-quality Impregnating Penetrating Water Based Sealer. This specific sealer is designed to provide comprehensive protection to the limestone pavers, penetrating deep into the stone to ensure effective and long-lasting results. One notable advantage of this sealer is its ability to eliminate the slipperiness that can be associated with other sealers used on limestone pavers. By opting for our Impregnating Penetrating Water Based Sealer, you can confidently protect your limestone pavers around the pool area while ensuring enhanced safety and durability.

Tile Cleaners® recommends performing a straightforward "water test" to assess the need for sealing your limestone floors. This test, widely recognized in the stone industry, can help you determine whether your floors require sealing. To conduct the test, place a few drops of water on the limestone surface and allow them to remain for approximately 10 to 30 minutes. Afterward, wipe the water dry. If the stone did not darken during this process, it indicates that your limestone is adequately sealed and does not require further sealing. However, if the water caused the stone to darken, it suggests that the water was able to penetrate the stone, indicating the need for sealing to protect the limestone properly.

Tile Cleaners® exclusively uses water-based sealing products for their services. In most cases, solvent-based sealers are not utilized, except when they are the only viable option. It is important to note that the sealer employed by Tile Cleaners® does not alter the texture of limestone tiles in any manner. Rest assured, the sealer's primary function is to provide protection against staining while preserving the desired lustrous and natural appearance of your limestone tiles.

Absolutely, we provide color enhancing services specifically designed for travertine. The color enhancement process involves the application of a specialized compound that enriches and intensifies the natural appearance of the travertine. By applying the color enhancer, the tiles' tones and hues are deepened, bringing out the inherent beauty of the travertine material. This treatment imparts a subtle wet or low sheen finish, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your travertine surfaces. Our color enhancing services are aimed at highlighting the unique characteristics and enhancing the aesthetics of your travertine.

When it comes to the texture of limestone floors, applying Tile Cleaners® color enhancer will not cause any changes. The color enhancer is designed to specifically enhance the color of your limestone tiles without altering their texture. By utilizing this product, you can accentuate the natural beauty of your limestone surfaces, enriching their color and giving them a more vibrant appearance. Rest assured that the texture of your limestone floors will remain intact while achieving the desired color enhancement.

During the sealing of your limestone floors, our professional team will provide a comprehensive explanation of the job processes, ensuring complete clarity on what to expect. The process encompasses several key steps. Firstly, any existing sealer, if present, will be stripped away. Subsequently, the limestone will undergo a thorough cleaning and neutralization process to eliminate any dust, residue, or other substances that may affect the performance of the new sealer. Once the limestone floor is dry, a new sealer will be applied and allowed to set. The end result will not only restore the floor's appearance to a like-new condition but also provide essential protection, making the maintenance of your limestone surfaces more convenient.

The duration of the resealing process for your limestone floors can vary depending on the size of the area being sealed. On average, most jobs take approximately 4 to 8 hours to complete. To provide a more convenient experience for our customers, we strive to conduct both the cleaning and resealing on the same day, eliminating the need for multiple appointments.

The drying process for your limestone tiles involves two stages. The first stage is when the tiles become touch dry, which typically takes approximately 4 hours. However, for the sealer to fully cure and reach its optimal effectiveness, it generally requires a period of 24 hours. Once the sealer has fully cured, you can safely place everything back in its original position. It is important to note that during this 24-hour period, it is advisable to avoid placing any heavy objects, such as furniture, directly on the tiles and grout to prevent potential damage.

The lifespan of a sealer before reapplication is influenced by the type of sealer used. Topical sealers typically provide protection for approximately 3 years before requiring reapplication. In contrast, impregnating sealers are more durable and can last up to 15 years or even a lifetime when applied to vertical surfaces. However, areas with high foot traffic or frequent use may necessitate more frequent inspections and resealing to ensure ongoing protection. Conducting a water absorption test can help assess the porosity of the surface and aid in selecting a sealer with longer-lasting durability. It is advisable to refer to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and consult professionals to determine the specific reapplication schedule suitable for your tiles and grout.

Deepshield™ Impregnating Penetrating Sealer does not alter the slipperiness of your limestone tiles' surface as the sealer penetrates the top layer of youWhen it comes to the slipperiness of limestone floors, the application of Deepshield™ Impregnating Penetrating Sealer does not cause any changes. This particular sealer effectively penetrates the top layer of the limestone tiles without altering their slipperiness. However, it is worth noting that the use of a topical sealer may lead to increased slipperiness when the floors are wet. To ensure both the desired appearance and slip resistance of your limestone floors, it is advisable to seal them with a high-quality, invisible, and fully breathable impregnating sealer. By doing so, you can protect your surfaces from moisture damage and maintain the natural beauty of your limestone floors while minimizing any potential slip hazards. r limestone. Topical Sealer may result in your limestone floors becoming slippery when wet. To maintain the look and slip resistance of your limestone and to prevent damaging moisture from being trapped within the stone, it is recommended to seal your surfaces with a high quality, invisible, fully breathable impregnating sealer.

Exposure to acidic substances poses a risk of etching or corrosion to limestone tiles, as they can be easily affected by such compounds. Protecting limestone against acid attack can be challenging as sealing may not offer complete resistance. However, the most effective approach to safeguarding your limestone tiles is to promptly seal them and clean up any spills without delay. Given the high porosity of stone-based tiles, sealing becomes essential in providing protection against potential acid attacks and liquid spills in the future.

The application of Tile Cleaners® colour enhancing sealer can potentially assist in concealing scratches on your limestone floors, although it cannot guarantee that they will be completely restored to their original condition. By utilizing Deepshield™ Penetrating Colour Enhancing Sealer, you can darken your limestone tiles by up to 20% and effectively camouflage etches, revitalizing the overall appearance of your floors and restoring their natural beauty.

In order to preserve the pristine condition of your limestone tiles after they have been sealed, Tile Cleaners® suggests following a regular cleaning routine. It is recommended to clean the tiles and grout on a weekly basis using a mild detergent that effectively removes dirt and grime without compromising the integrity of the sealer. It is crucial to avoid using strong detergents with acidic or alkaline properties as they may impact the sealer. Instead, opt for mild detergents and pH neutral substances for optimal results. Additionally, the best way to safeguard your limestone tiles against staining is to apply one of our highest quality sealers, which provides superior protection.

Tile Cleaners® follows a pricing structure based on the square meter measurement for each individual limestone room. You can find a comprehensive price list on the Tile Cleaners® website, allowing you to review the cost details. Prior to commencing the work, our team will accurately measure each room, discuss the specific tasks to be performed, and confirm all associated costs with you. This ensures transparency and clarity regarding the pricing of the sealing service for your limestone tiles.

For accurate measurement of the area that needs sealing, we advise measuring each individual limestone area separately. The most straightforward method is to multiply the width by the length of each area. As an illustration, if a room measures 3 meters in length and 2 meters in width, the total area would be calculated as 3 X 2 = 6m2. This approach ensures precise measurements and allows for an accurate estimation of the sealing requirements for your limestone surfaces.

Tile Cleaning provides assistance with moving furniture during the floor sealing process. Their team of dedicated technicians is available to help with the relocation of furniture items that can be reasonably managed by one person, such as those with wheels or lightweight furniture like tables and chairs. However, it is important to keep in mind that while Tile Cleaning takes precautions to protect your belongings, they cannot be held responsible for any damages that may occur during the furniture moving process. To ensure the safety of valuable or fragile items, it is recommended to either relocate them to a secure area or properly secure them before the technicians arrive. By taking these necessary precautions, you can help ensure the safety of your furniture and minimize the risk of potential damage while the floor sealing process is being carried out.

In preparation for the sealing process, it is necessary to remove all furniture and items from your limestone floors. This ensures that the area is clear and ready for the arrival of the professionals who will be carrying out the sealing. By clearing the space beforehand, you facilitate a smooth and efficient process for the application of the sealer on your limestone floors.

Client Range

We clean and restore a
huge range of tiles and surfaces in all locations including:
Kitchen, Balcony, Bathroom, Shower, Swimming pool, Pool pavers, Restaurant, Café, Bar, Home, School, Clinic, Hospital, Companie, Office

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