During renovation or construction work, it’s common to find residues of cement, lime, or construction dust on floors. If left to dry, these materials can become very difficult to remove. In this guide, you’ll discover how to remove cement from flooring using effective techniques and specific products such as VIACEM for terracotta, DELICACID for stone surfaces, and POWER DET for porcelain stoneware.
Why is it important to remove cement from the floor?
If not properly treated, cement residues can:
- Compromise the floor’s appearance, leaving streaks and stains.
- Damage more delicate surfaces, such as terracotta, natural stone, and porcelain stoneware.
- Hinder regular maintenance by trapping dirt and dust over time.
Effective Methods for Removing Cement from Floors
There are several techniques for removing cement residues, depending on the type of surface and the amount of hardened material.
1. Manual Removal with the Right Tools
If the cement hasn’t fully hardened, it can be removed using:
- A plastic or wooden scraper to lift off residues without scratching the surface.
- A stiff-bristled brush to eliminate more stubborn deposits.
- A damp cloth with warm water to soften surface residues.
Procedure:
- Gently scrape the cement with the spatula.
- Brush the area using stiff bristles.
- Wipe with a damp cloth to remove remaining residues.
2. Use of Specific Products for Cement Removal
For effective and safe cleaning, using professional products is the best solution. Depending on the type of flooring, you can choose from:
A. Cleaning Terracotta: VIACEM for Terracotta
Terracotta is a porous material that easily absorbs cement residues. VIACEM for Terracotta is a buffered acid-based cleaner, ideal for removing post-construction encrustations without damaging the surface.
How to Use It:
- Dilute the product in water according to the instructions.
- Apply the solution to the surface using a sponge or mop.
- Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
B. Cleaning Natural Stone: DELICACID for Stone Surfaces
If the floor is made of natural stone, a gentle product like DELICACID for Stone is essential. It is specifically formulated to remove cement residues without corroding or damaging the surface.
Procedure:
- Apply the diluted cleaner directly onto the cement stains.
- Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
C. Cleaning Porcelain Stoneware: POWER DET for Porcelain
Porcelain stoneware is durable but can retain cement residues. POWER DET for Porcelain is the ideal solution for removing encrustations without leaving streaks or dull marks.
How to Use It:
- Apply the detergent to the surface using a sponge or mop.
- Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub with an abrasive pad.
- Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
3. Natural Methods for Removing Cement from Floors
If you prefer an eco-friendly solution, you can try:
- White vinegar – useful for dissolving light cement encrustations.
- Baking soda and lemon – an effective mixture to soften residues.
- Warm water and neutral soap – helps remove surface-level cement dust.
These methods are suitable for small stains, but for more demanding removal tasks, the use of specialized detergents is recommended.
Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Cement from Floors
- Do not use sharp metal tools: They can cause irreversible scratches on the surface.
- Avoid overly aggressive products: Some acidic solutions can damage the flooring material.
- Do not scrub excessively: This may dull or wear down the surface finish.
- Avoid letting cement dry for too long: The longer it stays, the harder it will be to remove.
How to protect the floor after cleaning
After removing cement, it is advisable to protect the floor to prevent deterioration:
- Apply a protective treatment specific to the type of flooring.
- Perform regular cleaning with neutral pH detergents.
- Avoid the buildup of dust and debris, which can harden on the surface over time.
Removing cement from floors may seem like a complex task, but with the right tools and products, it becomes a simple and effective operation. Using professional cleaners such as VIACEM for Terracotta, DELICACID for Stone, and POWER DET for Porcelain ensures safe cleaning without damaging the surfaces.
By following the advice in this guide, you’ll be able to eliminate all traces of cement and preserve the beauty and durability of your floor.
Discover all post-construction cleaning products at Marbec!
The restoration of a flood-damaged Tuscan terracotta floor is a complex process that requires specific techniques and products. Impresa Pippolo di Timpano Giuseppe, specialised in the treatment of surfaces made of stone materials, carried out a targeted restoration operation, divided into two main phases: de-waxing and protective treatment. The first phase involved removing old layers of wax and dirt residues with SGRISER, a powerful alkaline-solvent wax remover. Next, VIACEM, a buffered acid detergent, was used to remove cement slurries and salt efflorescence. After thorough cleaning, EXCEL PLUS was applied, an anti-stain protective agent that penetrates deep into the terracotta without altering its breathability. To complete the treatment, a finish was applied with IDROFIN MATT, a matt wax that protects the surface and facilitates maintenance. Thanks to the use of professional products and the experience of Impresa Pippolo di Timpano Giuseppe, the floor has regained its original beauty, becoming more resistant to wear and weathering. This type of treatment not only restores the aesthetics of the terracotta but also ensures its durability, reducing the need for future maintenance.
