Ceramic Tile - Care and Maintenance

Ceramic products, for the most part, require minimal maintenance.
Glazed and unglazed tile, under normal residential situations, can be
cleaned using clean water and a tile cleaner recommended by the
manufacturer. Always follow up with a rinse of clean water to completely
remove all the cleaning solution. Regular maintenance is recommended
to avoid build-up of dirt, residue, grease, soap, detergents, or other
external contaminants.

Improper maintenance and improper cleaning products can result in
a build-up on the surface, causing the tile to be slippery. Wax cleaners
and oil-based detergents may decrease the slip resistance and are not
recommended for use on your ceramic tile.

For basic cleaning, the following procedures are recommended:
1. Sweep or vacuum surface
2. Mix water with tile and grout cleaner per manufacturer’s instructions
and apply to surface
3. Allow solution to sit for three to five minutes
4. Agitate with sponge or mop
5. Mop up solution
6. Rinse mop and change cleaning solution at least every 500 square feet
7. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
8. Dry mop floor to remove moisture or pick up residue with a wet-vac
9. Wipe the floor dry

For tile with coarse or abrasive type surfaces, maintenance will need to
be performed more frequently. Agitation will need to be more vigorous
and water changes more frequent. Proper cleaning of these types of
tile is necessary for the slip resistance value to be maintained. Grease or
water accumulation may create slippery conditions. Be careful to avoid
introduction of grease from dirty mops to your floor surface while cleaning.

Because the grout on your ceramic tile needs time to thoroughly dry after
installation, we recommend you do not scrub or wash your ceramic tile
for five days after installation. We also recommend protecting your floor
against abrasive dirt at entrances to buildings with dirt catching floor mats.