How to Crystallize a Marble or Terrazzo Floor with KLEEVER K2 Pink Crystallizer from Coor & Kleever

Crystallizing terrazzo or marble floors is an excellent way to restore their shine, protect them from wear, and make them more durable. The crystallization process involves using a chemical product, typically a crystallizer, that reacts with the calcium carbonate in the marble or terrazzo to create a hard, shiny surface. Here’s a general guide on how to crystallize a terrazzo or marble floor:

What You Need:

• Crystallizer (such as ROSA K2 Pink Crystallizer by Coor & Kleever)
• Floor Polishing Machine (high-speed or low-speed machine, depending on your preference)
• Polishing Pads (hog hair pad  or a Supershine G3000 pad  for high-speed machines, steel wool pads for low-speed machines)
• Clean Water
• Mop or Microfiber Cloth
• Protective Gloves and Safety Glasses
• Dust Mask
• Towels or Cloths for Buffing

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Clean the Floor Thoroughly

Before starting the crystallization process, it’s crucial that the floor is free of dirt, dust, or any previous cleaning products that may interfere with the crystallizer. Cleaning is the first step in ensuring a smooth and successful crystallization.

• Sweep the floor to remove any loose dirt or debris.
• Mop the floor with clean water to remove any grime or residue.
• If the floor is heavily soiled or has stains, you may need to use a specialized cleaner before mopping.
• Allow the floor to dry completely before applying the crystallizer.

2. Choose the Right Crystallizer

There are many crystallizers available on the market, and the choice depends on the type of floor you have (marble or terrazzo). For example, K2 Pink Crystallizer by Coor & Kleever is an excellent option for both marble and terrazzo.

• Shake the crystallizer well to ensure it is thoroughly mixed.

3. Apply the Crystallizer

• Pour the crystallizer directly onto the floor in small sections (approximately 3-5 square meters at a time).
• Do not oversaturate the surface; apply a thin, even layer of crystallizer. This ensures the product works correctly and helps avoid residue build-up.

4. Buff the Floor with the Polishing Machine

The buffing process is where the crystallization happens, and it’s essential to choose the right machine and pads for the job. The type of machine and pad will vary depending on the speed and finish you want.

• If using a high-speed polishing machine (1500-3000 RPM):
  • Attach a hog hair pad  or a Supershine G3000 pad  .
  • Turn on the machine and begin buffing the crystallizer into the floor. Buff in small, overlapping sections to ensure even coverage.
  • Work in circular or back-and-forth motions. This generates heat and friction that helps the crystallizer bond to the surface, creating a shiny, hard finish.
  • Continue buffing each section for 3-5 minutes until a shine starts to appear.
• If using a low-speed floor polishing machine (175 RPM) with steel wool pads (for a gentler application):
  • Attach steel wool pads (medium or fine grade).
  • Work in the same manner as the high-speed method but at a slower pace. The low-speed machine is gentler and helps control the crystallizer’s application more carefully.
  • Move the machine slowly across the surface in overlapping motions, ensuring that the crystallizer is evenly spread and worked into the floor.

5. Check the Floor’s Shine

Once you’ve buffed a section, stop and check the shine. The crystallizer should be hardening and turning the floor glossy. If you’re satisfied with the result, continue on to the next section. If you want more shine, you can reapply the crystallizer to the area and buff it again.

• Wipe down the surface with a clean dry towel to remove any residue.

6. Final Touches

After completing the entire floor, give it a final wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining residue.

• If the floor needs a bit more shine, you can reapply the crystallizer and buff once more.

Additional Tips for Crystallizing Terrazzo or Marble Floors:

• Use the right pad: Make sure to choose the appropriate pads for your polishing machine (hog hair pad  or a Supershine G3000 pad  for high-speed, steel wool for low-speed). Using the wrong pad can affect the results.
• Don’t over-apply the crystallizer: Applying too much crystallizer can lead to excess residue that’s hard to remove. Always use a thin, even layer.
• Work in sections: Crystallizing in small sections ensures even coverage and a consistent finish.
• Protect the surface: After crystallization, the marble or terrazzo surface will be more durable, but it’s still a good idea to clean it gently to maintain the shine. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals that can dull the surface.

Benefits of Crystallizing Terrazzo or Marble Floors:

• Enhanced Shine: Crystallization restores the natural gloss of marble and terrazzo, bringing out its beauty and luster.
• Increased Durability: The process hardens the surface, making it resistant to dirt, moisture, and wear.
• Protection: Crystallizing provides a protective layer, making cleaning easier and preventing stains from penetrating the surface.
• Long-Lasting Results: A crystallized floor has a long-lasting, durable finish that requires less frequent maintenance.
• Non Slippery: A Safe floor.

Conclusion

Crystallizing your terrazzo or marble floors is an effective way to restore their shine, enhance durability, and protect them from everyday wear. By following the steps outlined above—cleaning the floor, applying the right crystallizer, and using the appropriate polishing machine and pads—you can achieve a glossy, professional-looking finish that will last for years.

If you have any further questions or need additional guidance, feel free to ask!