Tile Care

Here are some simple steps to maintain the beauty of your tile.

Glazed Walls/Countertops
Wipe with damp cloth or sponge using all-purpose cleaner. Use window cleaner for glossy surfaces. Wipe dry with cloth.

Glazed Tile Floors
Vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles.
Damp mop using solution of water and "soapless detergent".

Glazed Tile Showers
Use all-purpose or bathroom cleaner. Allow to stand for five minutes rinse and dry. May also use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar or a commercial tile cleaner.

Unglazed Tile Walls
Sponge with a diluted solution of water and "soapless" detergent".

Unglazed Tile Floors
Vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Damp mop or sponge with water and/or a diluted solution of water and "soapless detergent".

Natural Porcelain/Semi-Polished Porcelain
Vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Damp mop using a solution of water and "soapless detergent", rinse and then wipe dry.

Commercial Applications
For smaller commercial areas, vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Using a "soapless detergent", scrub with an inexpensive nylon brush (such as a "Doodle Bug"). Follow by using a dry/wet vac to remove water and soap residue. Note: After initial cleaning, replace nylon brush. Replace thereafter as it becomes worn. A clean scrubber makes for a clean floor. For large commercial settings, consider the use of a commercial floor scrubbing machine.

DO's and DON'Ts of Ceramic Tile Care
-Do not combine ammonia and household bleaches.
-Do not use harsh cleaning agents (such as steel wool pads) which can scratch or damage the surface of your tile.
-Do test scouring pads in a small area first.
-Do use a silicone sealer on grout joints if continuous staining is a problem.
-Do read and follow label directions for all cleaners.

Care and maintenance of Tile Grout
Grout may present a special cleaning problem because it is susceptible to many staining agents. Apply a silicone sealer to grout joints several times a year for maximum protection.

In addition to keeping the grout clean, be sure to keep grout joints in good repair. Scrape out loose, cracked or powdery joints and refill with a good grout.

One common grouting trouble spot is the joint between the tub and and the wall in your bathroom. As the house or tub settles, the grout may crack and crumble. It's relatively simple to remedy. Remove the old grout with a sharp pointed tool, watching out that you don't scratch tile or tub. Then dry the joint thoroughly and fill with a flexible caulking compound, such as silicone rubber caulking.