Tile Tips
Cleaning
Cleaning on a daily basis due to pedestrian traffic is particularly simple, since only clean (preferably hot) water with a grease remover is required. Polished or satin-finish tiles can be cleaned equally well with a damp cloth.
The use of wax, oil and similar products is not recommended since the low porosity of porcelain gres tiles prevents them from being applied correctly.
You may also be faced with organic type stains (wine, coffee, soda, oil, blood, etc.), which have dried on hard and cannot be removed with a mop. These can be removed by applying concentrated bleach and leaving it to dry. Particularly stubborn stains may need this treatment to be repeated.
Products such as paint or tar will require a specific solvent (acetone, paint stripper) in order to be removed. Better results are obtained on recent stains left in contact with the solvents for a longer period of time.
Remains of adhesive products and metal marks are easily removed using a commercial acid descaling product (known as concrete remover), after making sure that the chosen product does not contain any traces of hydrofluoric acid. Household “salfuman” (hydrochloric acid solution) must be avoided since it may contain this acid.
Normal maintenance of glazed wall tile used on counter tops and light duty floors usually consists of wiping with a damp cloth or sponge. The use of multi-purpose household cleaners or window cleaners is acceptable as long as any cleaner residue is removed with a clean water rinse.
Shower areas generally require more periodic cleaning in order to remove soap scum, body oils and hard water deposit buildup. Normally, shower areas may be cleaned by spraying an all-purpose cleaner on the tile, letting it stand for 3-5 minutes and then rinsing. A white vinegar and water solution should remove most hard water stains.
To remove mildew we suggest a commercial fungicide, chlorine bleach or ammonia. If discoloration remains, a bleaching agent (chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide) wiped over the area should remove it. All treated areas should be rinsed well and wiped dry with a clean, soft towel.
Glass tiles should be cleaned periodically with a soft cloth and warm water or a mild, non-abrasive, regular glass cleaner. A squeegee may be used to remove excess water to help prevent hard water build up.