Routine Care: Clean glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles regularly to avoid dirt, grease, and soap scum buildup. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and rinse with clear water. Promptly clean spills, especially on light-colored tiles, to prevent stains.
Polished Porcelain: For fully polished porcelain, avoid acid-based cleaners and use a sealer before grouting. These tiles may require extra protection to maintain their appearance and prevent hazing or staining.
Maintenance Tip: Clean with a non-abrasive cleaner and avoid sealing or using harsh chemicals. When removing wax or sealers, use a Tile Sealer & Adhesive Remover for safe results.
Natural Stone Care
General Cleaning: Natural stone tiles are porous and require specialized care. Avoid acid or bleach-based cleaners, as they can etch the surface. Use neutral pH cleaners for routine cleaning and apply stone-specific sealers for protection.
Stain Removal: For oil stains, use a stone poultice to draw out the stain. If your stone becomes dull, use a marble polish to restore its shine.
New Installations: Seal natural stone before grouting to prevent staining from grout. Apply a high-quality sealer post-installation for additional protection.
Recycled Glass Tile Care
General Cleaning: Recycled glass tiles are non-porous and easy to maintain. Use a non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaner and soft cloth for regular cleaning. Test cleaning solutions on a small area before use.
Maintenance Tip: Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials to prevent scratching the surface. Glass tiles typically do not require sealing unless specified by the manufacturer.
Grout Care
Premium Grouts (TEC Power Grout, Mapei Ultracolor FA): These grout types resist stains and repel dirt. Use a pH-neutral cleaner for routine cleaning. For grease or soap scum, use an alkaline cleaner.
Cementitious Grouts: Apply a penetrating sealer 72 hours after installation to protect against moisture and stains. Sealers help simplify maintenance and prevent discoloration.
Epoxy Grouts: No sealing required. These grouts are highly resistant to stains and moisture, but regular maintenance is still necessary.
Grout Restoration: If grout is deeply stained, use a grout stain to restore its color. Be sure to clean the grout thoroughly before application.
Grout Haze Removal: To remove grout haze, use Sulfamic Acid for cementitious grout haze or an Epoxy Haze Remover for epoxy grout. Never use these on natural stone.
Maintenance Tips:
Always test cleaning products in small, inconspicuous areas first.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals to preserve the surface integrity.
Regularly clean grout lines to maintain their appearance and prevent buildup.
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