Autumn can be a tricky time in terms of stains, with Halloween mayhem and Firework Night hot on its heels. Organic residue, grease and wax are common culprits and, on natural stone in particular, correct treatment is really important to avoid damaging the tile.
Pumpkin residue on a slate hearth
For Halloween, LTP Grimex and LTP Solvex are a great combo and will remove most stubborn stains from natural and engineered stone tiles. LTP Grimex is an alkaline-based cleaner, so it’s formulated to break down organic residue, fats, oils, wax and grease. That covers most stains that you’ll likely to encounter, including pumpkin residue, face-paint, fake blood, sugary treats, hair dye, candle wax and drinks. It’s also really good at lifting general dirt from porous surfaces.
LTP Grimex is a heavy-duty grime and stain remover and it can be used on all types of natural stone – including limestone, travertine, slate, terracotta, marble and granite – porcelain and ceramic, regardless of the tile’s finish. As with any deep cleaner, it’s always best to test the solution on an inconspicuous area first, before applying across the whole surface. Grimex can be diluted according to the severity of the stain – either 1:10 in warm water for mild staining or 1:3 with warm water for more stubborn marks. In each case, it’s applied with a cloth or mop.
How to apply LTP Grimex
For mild stains, using the 1:10 dilution, apply the cleaner and then rinse by wiping the tiles thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth.
For more severe staining, using the 1:3 dilution, apply, agitate the tiles with a scrubbing brush, leave the solution for 5-10 minutes – keeping tiles wet with additional solution – and agitate again. The treatment can then be mopped up and the tiles should be rinsed thoroughly with clean water to neutralise the surface.
For more severe wax residue and for paint stains, we recommend treatment with LTP Solvex. A non-caustic remover, Solvex can also be safely used on all types of natural and engineered stone.
How to apply LTP Solvex
Generously dab the treatment onto stains with a cloth or brush; always protect hands with suitable gloves. Work the solution in manageable areas – as far as you can reach without treading into the cleaner. Leave it to react for up to 30 minutes; during this time, more should be applied if it starts to dry out. Using a coarse, stiff brush or an LTP Black Emulsifying Pad, lift the softened residue from the surface. The process should be repeated if any staining remains. Lastly, rinse tiles with LTP Grimex, using a 1:3 dilution applied with a cloth, mop or brush. Then, rinse again with plenty of water and leave to dry.
Topping up protection
If the surface sealer on your tiles is worn or quite old, it’s worth applying a new coat after deep cleaning, to top up the protection. This can be carried out once the surface is sufficiently dry; this may take a minimum of 24 hours. We recommend LTP Mattstone H2O for natural stone and barrier treatment, LTP Porcelain Tile Protector for matt porcelain pavers.
For further information, please contact LTP on tel. 01823 666213 or email [email protected]. Also, for online help on-the-go, visit LTP TV on YouTube and Product Selector at https://ltp-productguide.co.uk
