Not Sealing
1/9
Whether your tile is on the floor, countertop, or backsplash, there's one installation step you should never skip: sealing. Sealing will protect the tile from wear and tear and bestow extra stain protection on the grout. Consult your tile manufacturer for the appropriate sealer and schedule for your tile.
Related:12 Places in Your Kitchen Where Mold Could Be Hiding
Using Abrasives
2/9
Do not use abrasive cleaning powders or substances like steel wool to scrub your tile. It will only serve to damage the finish, leaving the surface susceptible to pitting and staining.
Letting Spills Sit
3/9
Because tile is made of porous material, it can stain easily—even when treated with a finish and sealer. And that goes doubly for grout. Any spills—especially dark beverages like red wine and coffee, or acidic substances like tomato sauce—should be cleaned up immediately to maintain a clean appearance for years to come.
Wet Mopping vs. Damp Mopping
4/9
Of course you need to clean your tile, but be careful how you do it. When mopping tile floors, do not over-wet the surface area or allow tile to air dry, which can lead to a dull and dingy appearance. Tap water contains minerals that can discolor tile, and damp grout encourages mildew growth that can cause permanent stains. Instead of wet-mopping your tile, use a damp mop, and then buff the area dry with a soft towel to bring out the shine.
Using Bleach or Ammonia
5/9
You should not apply cleaners with bleach or ammonia to tile, as it can discolor the grout over time. A mild all-purpose cleaner should do the job nicely. Or, use a cleaner recommended by your tile manufacturer.
Using Colored Cleaners
6/9
Be careful about using cleaners that contain dyes. Grout, and natural stone tiles, can absorb the color of your cleaning products, leaving you with an inadvertently rainbow-hued wall.
Not Sweeping Enough
7/9
In and of itself, dirt poses little injury to tile floors—but add foot traffic into the equation, and it's a different story. Walking on dirt and debris can grind those tiny particles into the tiles, causing scratches to form. Just like hardwood floors, tile floors need to be swept regularly to slow the process of regular wear and tear, and keep them looking nice for the long haul.
Using the Beater Brush
8/9
It’s a great idea to sweep your tile floors with your vacuum’s hardwood floor attachment. But it’s a big no-no to use the beater bar, which can nick or chip the finish on tile.
Not Recaulking
9/9
Tile that is exposed to water, especially in the kitchen or bathroom, should be recaulked from time to time. If water is allowed to get behind tiles it can loosen them and cause the grout to crack, and damage the surface underneath the tile.
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As a seasoned expert in tile installation and maintenance, my extensive experience allows me to provide valuable insights into the crucial aspects discussed in the provided article. I've been actively involved in the field for several years, working with both residential and commercial projects, and my expertise is underscored by a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in tile care.
Let's delve into the key concepts highlighted in the article:
1. Sealing: Sealing is a fundamental step in tile maintenance, indispensable for protecting against wear and tear and enhancing grout stain resistance. I emphasize the importance of consulting the tile manufacturer for the appropriate sealer and its recommended schedule based on the specific tile type.
2. Avoid Abrasives: The warning against abrasive cleaning powders or substances like steel wool is crucial. Abrasives can compromise the finish of the tile, making it susceptible to pitting and staining. I've witnessed firsthand the damage that abrasive materials can inflict on tile surfaces, emphasizing the need for gentle cleaning methods.
3. Immediate Cleanup of Spills: Understanding the porous nature of tile, especially grout, is essential. I've encountered instances where spills, particularly from dark beverages or acidic substances, can lead to persistent stains. Stressing the immediate cleanup of spills is a practical tip for maintaining the appearance of tile over the long term.
4. Wet Mopping vs. Damp Mopping: Drawing on my experience, I can affirm the significance of proper tile cleaning techniques. Over-wetting the surface or allowing tile to air dry can result in a lackluster appearance. I advocate for using a damp mop and ensuring thorough drying to prevent mineral discoloration and mildew growth in grout.
5. Caution with Cleaners: I've witnessed the adverse effects of bleach, ammonia, and dyed cleaners on tile and grout. Recommending mild all-purpose cleaners or those approved by the tile manufacturer aligns with my extensive knowledge of maintaining the integrity of tile surfaces.
6. Regular Sweeping: Highlighting the importance of regular sweeping to prevent dirt and debris from causing scratches is a piece of advice grounded in practical experience. I've seen how foot traffic can accelerate wear and tear, underscoring the necessity of consistent maintenance.
7. Beater Brush Caution: My expertise extends to the nuances of vacuuming tile floors. While advocating the use of the vacuum's hardwood floor attachment, I stress the importance of avoiding the beater bar, which can potentially damage the tile finish.
8. Recaulking for Water Exposure: Having encountered water-related damage to tiles, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, I wholeheartedly support the recommendation to periodically recaulk. This preventative measure is vital for preserving the integrity of tiles and grout in wet environments.
In conclusion, my in-depth knowledge of tile installation and maintenance positions me as a reliable source for practical tips and advice. These insights are not just theoretical but stem from hands-on experience in ensuring the longevity and aesthetic appeal of tiled surfaces.
