A Homeowner’s Quick Guide to Tile Maintenance

Tile is an extremely versatile flooring material that also works perfectly for bathroom walls, shower enclosures and kitchen backsplashes. While tile is fairly durable, it’s still important to perform proper maintenance on it to ensure that it stays as attractive as the day it was laid. To keep your tile looking beautiful for many years to come, follow these basic tile maintenance tips: 

• Seal tile after installation. While many types of tile are glazed, such as ceramic tile, not all are. For those that aren’t, consider applying a sealant to the surface of the tile to help make it water- and oil-resistant and prevent staining. This is best done when the tile is first installed, but if that isn’t an option, it can be done after the fact as well. Just keep in mind that sealed tile can become very slippery when wet.
•  Stop dirt in its tracks. Along with dirt comes abrasive sand and grit, which you want to keep off your tile as much as possible. To prevent dirt and other debris from being tracked all over your tile floor, lay down a rug or doormat at all entryways; these will help catch the majority of the dirt. For added protection, make sure there’s a door mat at the exterior of all your entrances as well. 
• Sweep and mop frequently. Dirty floors are unavoidable, but the mess can be kept to a minimum with the frequent sweeping and mopping of your tile floors. When choosing your preferred cleaners and cleaning supplies, don’t use anything that’s rough or abrasive to avoid scratching the tiles. In addition, stay away from soap- or vinegar-based cleaners.
• Clean up the grout. The other component of tile floors is the grout: the hardened material that fills the gaps between each tile. Grout can become stained and dirty easily, and will need to be cleaned regularly to keep it looking good. Stains from mildew and other substances can be removed using a weak solution of water and bleach. Apply to the grout with a washcloth and scrub lightly. For stains that are a little more stubborn, an old toothbrush works great to add a little more scrubbing power. Avoid using stiff-bristled scrubbing brushes.

Get Help From the Pros

If, despite your best efforts at regular maintenance, you still need to schedule tile replacement or cracked tile repair, call on Handyman Connection. We can be reached at (800) 88-HANDY for all of your tile and home remodeling needs.