Ceramic Tile Care and Maintenance  

Routine Ceramic Tile Care
Wipe glazed wall tiles periodically using a cloth or sponge dampened with a non oil-based household cleaner. Vacuum glazed floor tiles regularly to remove dirt and other gritty particles, then damp mop or sponge with an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner. Remember not to use ammonia, as it will discolor grout. Clean unglazed wall and floor tiles in a similar manner using a solution of water and soapless detergent instead of an all-purpose cleaner.

Grout Care
Once the tile has been cleaned and dried (shortly after installation), grout joints should be treated with a silicone sealer. Grout, the material used to fill the spaces between tiles, is porous, and sealing it at this time will simplify maintenance in the future (Epoxy grouts do not require a sealer). We recommend you apply a sealer at least twice a year for maximum stain protection.

Heavy Duty Cleaning
Neglected or heavily trafficked tile may require more intensive cleaning. Clean glazed wall tiles with a scouring powder or all-purpose cleaner applied to a non-metallic pad. Rinse and wipe dry. For glazed floor tiles, use a commercial tile cleaner, or apply a strong solution of an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner or scouring powder paste. Let stand for five minutes, brush and scrub. Then rinse with clean water and wipe dry.

For heavy-duty cleaning of unglazed wall tiles, make a paste of scouring powder. Apply to surface and let stand for five minutes. Scour with brush, rinse and wipe dry. Unglazed floor tiles can be cleaned in the same manner. Though a small brush is suitable for most floors, you may want to use a scrubbing machine for large areas.

To clean badly soiled countertops, apply a solution of scouring powder and very hot water. Let stand for five minutes, scrub with a stiff brush and rinse. Soap scum, mildew stains and hard-water deposits may be removed from ceramic tile using cleaning products that are commonly available at your local supermarket or home improvement store. With soft water, use an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner. Allow to stand for five minutes before lightly scrubbing with a sponge. Rinse well.

Do's and Dont's

Do not use cleansers containing acid or bleach for routine maintenance.

Do not use wax cleaners, oil-based detergents or sealants to maintain your tile (sealants may be used on grout joints and natural stone).

Do not use ammonia (it will discolor grout).

Do not use harsh cleaning aids like steel wool pads or scouring pads containing metal.

Do not use a cleaning agent that contains color on unglazed ceramic tile or natural stone.

Do not mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas

Do test scouring powders on a small area first (not recommended for natural stone).

Do use a sealer on grout joints.

Do have any damaged or broken tiles removed and replaced only by a qualified contractor.

 

 

 
Copyright © 2005 - Empire Tile & Marble Supply Inc. - Web site designed by Dream Fountain