CARE & MAINTENANCE

Glazed Floor Tile

Routine maintenance of glazed floor tile consists of simply sweeping and damp mopping with clean water and a mild solution of neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile. Areas exposed to heavy traffic can be cleaned with a solution of a heavy-duty neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile and may also require scrubbing, depending on the texture of the surface.

It is very important to change the mop water frequently -approximately every 100-500 square feet- depending on how soiled the surface is.

Unglazed Floor Tile

Unglazed mosaic, porcelain or quarry floor tile should be maintained by dust sweeping and damp mopping with clean water and a mild solution of neutral cleaner formulated for tile. Areas exposed to heavy traffic can be cleaned with a solution of a heavy-duty neutral cleaner formulated for tile and can require scrubbing, depending on the texture of the surface.

As an unglazed quarry tile floor ages, a patina forms on the surface which gives it a soft shine and keeps the floor looking fresh longer.

Glazed Wall Tile

Routine maintenance of glazed wall tile usually consists of simply wiping with a damp cloth or sponge. The use of a neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile is acceptable as long as any residue is removed with a clean water rinse. If the tiled area has been neglected for an extended period of time, a solution of a heavy-duty neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile is recommended for cleaning.

Glazed Countertop Tile

Countertop applications will require more frequent cleaning in this same manner depending on the exposure to grease, foods, acids, etc. Sealing the grout joints on a countertop is always recommended to prevent staining of the tiled area has been neglected for an extended period of time, a solution of a heavy-duty neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile is recommended for cleaning.

Glazed Shower Tile

Shower applications will 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 a mild solution of neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile, letting it stand for three to five minutes, and then rinsing. If the tiled area has been neglected for an extended period of time, a solution of a heavy-duty neutral cleaner formulated for glazed tile is recommended for cleaning.

Sealers

Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations before sealing unglazed mosaics, porcelain, and quarry tile. There is no need to seal glazed ceramic tile. However, sealing the grout joints is recommended unless an epoxy grout is used.

Glass Wall Tile

For maintenance and cleaning, it is recommended to use a soft, clean cloth with warm water or with a non-abrasive cleaner formulated for use with glass. Do not use any cleaners with an abrasive agent as these could scratch the tile surface.

Glass tile should not be installed in floor applications because it can fracture when exposed to extreme weights and is very susceptible to scratching.

Natural Stone Disclaimer

The purchaser acknowledges that natural stones such as Travertine, Marble, Slate, Limestone, and Granite are products of nature and have been quarried from all over the world. As natural products, they are prone to variations in color, texture, shade, and veining that will differ from the samples shown. Dramatic variations in natural products are not considered flaws of natural stone but may occur as a result of the type of stone being used, as well as the current quarry conditions. No two pieces of natural stone are exactly alike and it is pertinent that the tiles are blended before they are set.

Always request samples of present stock as variations in the material may occur without notice. It is the customer’s responsibility to inspect the material before installation. Anchor Floors and More does not warranty natural stone products for shade coloration, size/ thickness variation, clefting, nor surface finish variation. Natural stone tiles are susceptible to cracking and pitting.

New Installation

Sealing is highly recommended on newly installed natural stones. Select a high-quality sealer to provide maximum surface stain protection.

Pre-Grout Sealing

Pre-sealing natural stone prior to grouting can make the grouting application much easier and will help protect all natural stone surfaces from grout pigment staining during the installation and grouting process.

Sealing

Once the grout has properly cured it is recommended to seal the stone with a high quality penetrating sealer. Generally, stone sealers are designed to penetrate the stone leaving a no-sheen, natural look and provide protection from liquids that would otherwise absorb into and possibly stain the stone. Various maintenance products are available to enhance and highlight the character and beauty of the stone while sealing at the same time.

Regular Stone Care

Interior natural stone floors should be frequently cleaned using a non-treated dry dust mop to remove dirt and dust that may scratch the surface of the stone. Mopping with a stone cleaner is recommended for routine cleaning. It is important to use a stone cleaner that is specifically designed for your particular stone. Never use vinegar or cleaners containing acid or bleach.

Maintenance Products

The information contained herein is intended as a general information source only. It is always recommended to test a small area before using any stone sealer, cleaner, or maintenance product. It is also recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear the appropriate protective clothing to provide a safe installation.

DO:

• Dust mop floors frequently
• Clean surfaces with mild detergent or stone soap
• Thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing
• Blot up spills immediately
• Protect floor surfaces with non-slip mats or area rugs and countertop surfaces with coasters, trivets or placemats

DON’T:

• Use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids on marble, limestone, travertine or onyx surfaces
• Use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners
• Use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers
• Mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas
• Never mix chemicals together unless directions specifically instruct you to do so