Wipe glazed wall tiles periodically using a cloth or sponge dampened with
a neutral, non oil-based household cleaner. Vacuum glazed floor tiles
regularly to remove dirt and other gritty particles, then damp mop or sponge
with a neutral, all-purpose, non oil-based
cleaner. Do not use ammonia; it may discolor grout.
Once the tile has been cleaned and dried (shortly after
installation), grout joints should
be treated with a silicone sealer. Grout is porous, and sealing it will
simplify future
maintenance. Epoxy grouts do not require a sealer. Reapply sealant
semi-annually for
maximum stain protection.
Glazed Wall Tile – Clean glazed wall tiles with scouring
powder or all-purpose
cleaner applied to a non-metallic pad. Rinse and wipe dry.
Glazed Floor Tile – 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, then rinse with clean water. Wipe dry.
Badly Soiled Countertops – Apply a solution of scouring powder and very hot
water
to countertops. Let stand for five minutes. Scrub with a stiff brush and
rinse.
Stone and Slate –
Stone and Slate products require unique care. Proper care will
preserve the natural stone’s original appearance. Use a neutral cleaner with
a pH
between 7 and 10.Avoid all purpose cleaners or soaps containing
water-soluble inorganic
or crystallizing salts, harmful alkali or acids. Stone and Slate products
should be sealed
with either a penetrating or surface coating type sealer, depending on the
desired look.
Test the sealant on the stone or slate for effect on color prior to full
application. Sealed
surfaces should be tested periodically for effectiveness. Many factors will
contribute to the
length of time a sealer will last, including the type and texture of the
stone or slate, wear
factors, cleaning methods used, weather conditions and sun exposure.
Commonly available tile cleaning products can be used to remove soap scum,
hard-water
deposits and mildew stains. These products are available at local
supermarkets or home
service centers. For soft water, use an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner.
Allow cleaner
to stand for five minutes before lightly scrubbing with a sponge. Rinse
well.
MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS
Tile cleaning products and sealants may be purchased at your local home
center or floor
covering store. Consult the manufacturer of the cleaner/sealant for usage
instructions and
more detailed information regarding the impact of their product on your
tile, stone and
grout prior to application.
• Do not use cleaners containing acid or bleach for
routine maintenance.
• Do not use wax-based cleaners, oil-based detergents or sealants to
maintain your
tile (sealants may be used on grout joints).
• Do not use harsh cleaning aids like steel wool pads or any scouring pads
containing metal.
• Do not use a cleaning agent that contains color (unglazed tile only).
• Do test scouring powders and sealants on a small area prior to full
application.
• Do use a sealer on grout joints.
• Do have a damaged or broken tile removed and replaced only by a qualified
tile contractor.
Travertine Resin, Stone and Slate, Ceramic – These items
may be cleaned with any
neutral, non-abrasive cleaner suitable for ceramic tile or stone. Do not
clean with
scouring pads, steel wool, sandpaper, or other abrasive materials.
Metal – To clean, use an ordinary household cleaner. For best results, we
recommend
a liquid, non-abrasive cleaner. Powdered or abrasive household cleaners
should be
tested in a small inconspicuous area to ensure that no damage will result.
Do not clean
with scouring pads, steel wool, sandpaper or other abrasive materials. Do
not use
cleaners containing ammonia, bleach or other harsh chemicals. Do not drag or
slide
furniture or appliances across the tile or permanent damage may result.