Answers to Your Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled the most common questions we receive from our clients worldwide. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.
General Information
General Questions
What services does GFS Global Flooring System offer?
GFS offers a comprehensive range of ten professional floor treatments: anti-slip treatment, marble polishing, scratch removal, stain and mark removal, surface softening, anti-stain protection, post-construction cleaning, engobe removal, epoxy grout removal, and specialized terracotta treatments. Each service is tailored to the specific surface type and client requirements.
How can I request a quote?
You can request a free quote by emailing us at info@gieffesse.com or calling +39 342 130 1260. For an accurate estimate, we will ask about the surface type, approximate area in square metres, desired treatment, and if possible, photographs of the areas to be treated. We typically respond within 24–48 business hours.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Our headquarters are in Parma, Emilia-Romagna, Italy, but we operate throughout Italy and internationally. We have completed treatments in over 15 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. For international projects, we manage all logistics including equipment transport and coordination with local staff. Distance is never a barrier when quality is the priority.
What is your typical response time?
We respond to all enquiries within 24–48 business hours. For urgent matters, you can reach us by phone at +39 342 130 1260 for an immediate response. After initial contact, we conduct a site survey (or a remote assessment via photographs) and provide a detailed quote within a few days.
Surface Safety
Anti-Slip Treatments
How does the anti-slip treatment work?
The GFS anti-slip treatment works at a microscopic level on the floor surface, creating invisible micro-channels that significantly increase grip for both shod and bare feet. The treatment does not alter the aesthetic appearance of the floor: colour, shine, and texture remain unchanged. The product is applied, left to act for a precisely calibrated time based on the material, then neutralized and removed.
How long does the anti-slip treatment last?
The duration of the anti-slip treatment depends on the surface type, traffic level, and maintenance routine. Under normal conditions, the effect is maintained for several years. For high-traffic areas such as hotel lobbies, we recommend periodic checks and, if necessary, a touch-up after a few years. We always provide precise maintenance guidelines to maximize the longevity of the treatment.
Does the anti-slip treatment change the appearance of the floor?
No. One of the key advantages of the GFS anti-slip treatment is that it does not alter the aesthetics of the surface. The floor retains its original appearance: colour, shine, and texture remain unchanged. This makes it ideal for luxury hotels and premium environments where aesthetics are paramount.
What safety standards does the anti-slip treatment meet?
Our anti-slip treatments comply with the DIN 51130 standard, the European benchmark for floor slip resistance classification. They also comply with Italian workplace safety legislation (D.Lgs. 81/2008) and guidelines for safety in hospitality and food service environments (HACCP). After every intervention, we provide documentation certifying the compliance of the treatment performed.
Natural Surfaces
Marble & Natural Stone
How often should hotel marble floors be polished?
Polishing frequency depends on traffic levels and surface usage. For hotel lobbies and high-traffic common areas, we recommend professional polishing every 12–18 months. For lower-traffic areas such as suites and corridors, the interval can extend to 24–36 months. We always provide a customized maintenance plan after each intervention.
Can deep scratches be removed from marble?
Yes, in most cases we are able to remove even deep scratches from marble, granite, and other natural stone surfaces. The process involves progressive honing with increasingly fine abrasives, followed by a final polish that restores the surface to its original lustre. Feasibility and results depend on the scratch depth and marble type: we always conduct a preliminary assessment before proceeding.
How are stains removed from marble surfaces?
Marble stains can have various origins: oils, wine, rust, limescale, acidic substances. Each type of stain requires a specific treatment approach. GFS uses professional products formulated for each type of contaminant, applied with techniques that ensure stain removal without damaging the surface. For particularly stubborn or deep stains, localized honing may be required.
How should marble be maintained after treatment?
After every intervention, we provide a detailed, customized maintenance protocol. General recommendations include using pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone, avoiding acidic products (lemon, vinegar, limescale removers), immediately drying any spilled liquids, and periodically applying a protective treatment. Our team is always available to provide guidance on daily maintenance routines.
For the Hospitality Sector
Hotels & Commercial Properties
Does the hotel need to close during the work?
No, in the vast majority of cases there is no need to close the property. GFS specializes in performing treatments with minimal impact on hotel operations. We work in zones, planning interventions in coordination with management to avoid any inconvenience to guests. We frequently operate during night hours or low-occupancy periods to ensure maximum discretion and minimal disruption.
Do the treatments produce noise or unpleasant odours?
Our treatments are designed to be as non-invasive as possible. Chemical treatments (anti-slip, anti-stain, mark removal) are silent and use low-odour products. Mechanical treatments (polishing, honing) produce a contained noise level, comparable to a professional vacuum cleaner. We always schedule the noisier interventions during the least sensitive time periods.
Can you treat large areas within tight timeframes?
Yes. We have the experience and resources to treat large surface areas within tight schedules. For large-scale projects, we deploy multiple teams working in parallel across different areas. Planning is essential: we define a detailed work schedule before commencement, agreed upon with the property management to meet your deadlines.
How is work scheduled in an operational hotel?
Every intervention in an operational hotel is planned in close collaboration with property management. We conduct a preliminary site survey to assess surfaces, define work zones, and agree a calendar that takes into account guest flow, scheduled events, and operational requirements. We work zone by zone, releasing each area as soon as it is completed, and provide constant updates to the hotel’s designated contact throughout the process.
Technical Matters
Technical Questions
What products do you use for treatments?
We use exclusively professional certified products that are non-toxic and environmentally responsible. Our suppliers meet the highest European quality standards. For each intervention, we select the most suitable products for the surface type and desired outcome. Technical data sheets and safety documentation for all products used are always available to our clients upon request.
Are the treatments safe for people and the environment?
Absolutely. Safety is a top priority at GFS. All products we use comply with European REACH and CLP regulations on chemical substances. After treatment, surfaces are completely safe for foot traffic and do not release harmful substances. Our operators always work with the personal protective equipment required by regulations, and we follow strict protocols for waste management.
Do you offer guarantees on completed treatments?
Yes, we offer guarantees on all our treatments. The guarantee duration varies based on the type of intervention, the treated surface, and usage conditions. After every job, we provide a document detailing the treatment performed, products used, maintenance instructions, and guarantee terms. Should any issues arise, we intervene promptly to resolve the situation.
What types of surfaces can you treat?
GFS works on an extensive range of surfaces: marble (Carrara, Botticino, Calacatta, Statuario, and many others), granite, travertine, all types of natural stone, porcelain stoneware, ceramic, terracotta, clinker, volcanic stone, slate, and many more. For each material, we have developed specific protocols that guarantee the best possible result without any risk to the surface.
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