Velvetech is the new technology with an European patent inspired by the effect of sanding on the surface. Velvetech has silk-like reflections and a velvety soft hand. The naturalness of the surface is emphasised by areas of different opacity that contribute to the depth of the surface.
Natural Surface
Warning: Velvet is a delicate surface
Polished and Velvet finishes are suitable for residential or medium-traffic commercial floors, excluding hotel lobbies and areas subject to the transit of trolleys with hard or metal wheels, where non-slip performance is not required (for which see the technical data sheet). The exception is the DCOF (ANSI A326.3) value, which for Velvet alone is >0.42 Wet.
The glossy polished finish offers a surprisingly bright, mirrored surface with slight irregularities typical of natural marbles.
The surface's shine and great ease of cleaning are the result of in-depth studies and technical research aimed at ensuring its durability over time.
The Velvet finish replicates the effect of polished marble.
It has a velvety touch and semi-opaque highlights.
The natural character of the surface is highlighted by areas of different opacity perceptible in oblique or reflected light.
To minimize the unevenness of the tiles both on the floor and on the wall it is recommended to use easy installation systems with leveling spacers with anti-scratch platforms.
Preserve the surface by avoiding the presence of abrasive materials and using systems to protect the metal feet of furniture and chairs.
If the product is in direct contact with the outdoors, prevent abrasions from foot traffic by using moisture and dirt-absorbing devices (fixed or movable mats depending on the intended use of the space) across the entire width of the entrance.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
1. FINAL CLEANING
In case of cement-based grouting (class CG-EN 13888) with contrasting colors or epoxy-based grouting (class RG-EN 13888) of POLISHED and VELVET finishes, always test cleaning products on a few spare tiles or on installed tiles in an area that’s not visible.
To remove cement-based grout use a buffered-action acid cleaner following the manufacturer's instructions with a white Scotch-Brite sponge or rough rag or brush with white pads for large surfaces.
Then rinse thoroughly with clean warm water until any haloing or residue in the crevices is removed.
If any areas remain that are not perfectly clean, repeat washing and rinsing with a melamine sponge/pad.
For the removal of epoxy fillers, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions, being aware that it is essential to remove residues before they begin to harden, as subsequent removal can be extremely difficult.
To remove surface stains and streaking, use specific cleaners for organic residues, following the manufacturer's instructions.
2. ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Proper cleaning is done simply with a cloth, dampened sponge, or microfiber cloth in a diluted solution of a common mild tile cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions for use.
For cleaning large areas, use scrubbers with soft nylon bristle brushes.
Strictly avoid the use of:
Detergents with waxing, brightening, shining, and polishing properties.
Wire or steel wool or pads that are excessively abrasive.
If the surface of the tiles appears different in appearance or color from the original (shinier than usual), or if it stains more easily, a cleaning with melamine pads or brushes adaptable to mops or floor scrubbers (for large surfaces) should be done. Use a diluted solution of a common alkaline-based tile cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions, and then rinse thoroughly.
For medium traffic residential or commercial floors.
Avoid hotel lobbies and areas transited by hard-wheeled trolleys.
Polished and Velvet finishes are intended for areas where anti-slip performance is not required (for individual values please refer to data sheet). As an exception, DCOF (ANSI A326.3) value, for Velvet alone, is >0.42 Wet.
Preserve the surface with soft pads for furniture and chair legs.
If the product is installed close to the entrance, use a door-mat for the entire width of the entrance to scratch away residual dirt or moisture on the soles of shoes.
For installation and maintenance, follow the instructions on our website.