Can the black and white squares be treated together?

Yes, but they are assessed separately because the stones can differ. We test a small area first so you can see the result before we do the full floor.

Do I need listed building consent to polish a hallway floor in Kensington?

Cleaning and polishing is maintenance rather than alteration, so it typically does not need consent even in a listed building, whereas replacing or moving the stone would. If you are unsure, ask your managing agent or the council’s conservation team.

Can you work around residents in a mansion block?

That is part of planning the job. We would agree which areas close and when with the porter or managing agent, and residents should be given notice of any noisy work.

Marble & Natural Stone Cleaning in Kensington

Marble, limestone and granite cleaning and polishing for Kensington’s hallways, staircases and mansion-block entrances.

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Kensington is where the black-and-white checkerboard marble hallway is most familiar: a Victorian detail found in many of the grander stucco terraces, and one that has often outlived several generations of owners. Mansion blocks add communal entrance halls and staircases in stone that see far more traffic than a private hall.

After decades of ordinary use, these floors tend to show wear evenly across the whole surface rather than as one damaged patch: a general loss of shine, fine scratching from grit, and dull marks where something acidic once sat. That kind of wear is corrected by honing and polishing the stone, not by cleaning it harder.

Checkerboard marble hallways

A checkerboard floor combines two stones, often white marble and a black stone or black marble, which can wear and react differently. White marble marks easily, and black squares show scratching and residue, so any treatment has to suit both.

We test a hidden area first and agree the finish with you, since the contrast between the squares depends on it.

Mansion-block entrances and staircases

Communal stone is normally managed by the freeholder or managing agent, and work on it is usually arranged through them. Because the floor is also the main way in, the practical question is how to keep the entrance usable, meaning which parts to close off and when.

We plan that with your porter or agent before starting.

Our products and methods

We use carefully selected cleaning products and follow manufacturer instructions. Product suitability is checked according to the type of stone and the requirements of each property.

Getting a quote in Kensington

Send photos of the floor in daylight, including a low-angle shot to show scratching. We cover all of Kensington (W8) and arrange sign-in, parking and timing with your porter, concierge or managing agent.

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Marble and stone cleaning in Kensington: questions

Very. Even dullness usually means years of fine scratching and old product build-up rather than a single spill. It is corrected by honing and polishing, then sealing, rather than by more cleaning.

For the official position on listed building consent, see Historic England’s listed building consent guidance.

Marble & Stone Cleaning in Other London Areas

Mayfair Pimlico Holland Park Chelsea Belgravia Notting Hill Fulham

Where we work

All of London, with detailed pages for the neighbourhoods on our areas page.

Monday–Saturday 9am – 6pm · Sunday 11am – 6pm

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