Homeowners often choose tile for high-traffic zones. But regular tile care is necessary to maintain this hardy surface. These easy tips will insure Your Tile and Grout looks new and performs better, longer.
Tile Care Tip #1
When grit and soil are tracked across your tile floors, the friction can mar the finish. The first step in tile care is to dry dust mop or vacuum your tile regularly. After removal of dry particles, your damp mopping will be more effective and will go faster. Regular cleaning and removal of everyday fall-out from our shoe soles, our pets’ feet and our kid’s toys will get the most out of a tile floor.
Tile Care Tip #2
Make sure to place mats or area rugs at any entry point onto your tile floor. These will help catch the sand, dirt and grit that cause the most damage to hard surface flooring. To ensure safety, the mats and rugs you choose should be backed with a non-slip surface. Remember to shake out your mat or rug or vacuum, to remove excess particles so they won’t end up on your tile.
Tile Care Tip #3
When it comes to wet-mopping, beware of using the wrong cleaner on your floors. Some products can create a build-up on the surface of tile. Others can even cause a slip hazard. Also, avoid the use of abrasive products like scouring powders, creams or bristle brushes which can scratch the surface.
Tile Care Tip #4
Always use a cleaner that is formulated for tile and grout floors. Mix the cleaning product and follow the instructions on the bottle. After you apply the product, let it stand for 3-5 mintues before mopping it up.
Tile Care Tip #5
After mopping, you still have a few steps to complete for the best results. Rinse your floors with clean water. Once you are done, dry your tile floor using a dry mop or wipe the floor dry with a clean cloth.
Tile Care Tip #6
Rather than letting it collect, tackle the soap scum on your tile surfaces one use at a time. By using a squeegee after each shower or counter use, you can avoid a build up and keep these surfaces looking new longer.
Tile Care Tip #7
If your tile is showing a residue, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a blend of 1/2 cup of ammonia to a gallon of water. Be aware that if you use the ammonia solution too frequently, it may dull the surface of your tile.
Tile Care Tip #8
Pull humidity and moisture from a bathroom with moving air. Open a window or run the exhaust fn for 10-20 minutes after a shower. This will help prevent mold growth on the grout.
Tile Care Tip #9
Tile Care is all about the grout. Regular removal of dry soil and gentle wet mopping and drying of tile floors reduce the likelihood that wet dirt will be pushed into your floor’s grout lines. Still, it is advisable to clean grout on a regular basis to avoid lasting stains.
Tile Care Tip #10
If your grout is already discolored by soil, schedule a professional cleaning as needed. Professional protocols and products may be able to minimize the problem. Remember, though, that grout contaminated by mold or mildew may remain discolored, even after a professional cleaning. Mold can also return to grout after a cleaning – usually due to a malfuction in the moisture barrier under the tiled surface. Unfortunately, the only remedy in this situation is a removal of the tile and correction of the sublayer.
One last pointer will ensure your cleaning efforts last as long as possible. Either at the time of installation or else after a deep cleaning, you want to have your grout sealed. Grout is porous. Without a thorough sealing, this surface can trap dirt and become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold and fungus. Not only does grout sealant protect the grout, it helps keep you and your family healthy. Professionals recommend you seal your mid to high-traffic areas no less than once per year. It is best to schedule that service after a deep cleaning of the tile and grout. For low traffic areas, resealing every 4-5 years is enough.
