Tile & stone mainenance

Tile & stone mainenance

With proper floor care and maintenance, you can keep your tile or stone floor looking good for a long time. Below are some tips to follow.

Grout care

• Seal your grout.
• If your tile was installed using cement grout, the grout must be sealed
72 hours after installation to prevent staining. Epoxy grouts don’t require a sealer.
• Maintain your grout.
• Even if the grout is properly sealed, discoloration and damage can still occur if you don’t maintain it properly. Deep clean the grout periodically with a cleaner specifically designed to remove buildup from grout. A proper cleaner can remove all types of buildup, including mildew stains, soap scum, grease,
and oil.

Floor protection

• Use protective pads for furniture.
• When your furniture is in direct contact with your tile or stone floor, they may cause damage, such as scratches or gouges. To prevent this from happening, affix protective pads to each point of contact.
• Use mats in high traffic areas.
• Place protective mats in all areas where traffic is heavy, such as the entryway and exit. These mats will trap harmful substances, such as dirt and oil. They will also prevent premature wear.

Cleaning

• Be careful with vacuums.
• Although it may be safe to vacuum a textured stone floor to remove debris, never use the beater bar. The bristles can scratch the floor, causing permanent damage. For a safer option, remove debris using a dust mop or a soft broom.
• Deep clean with a damp mop.
• At least once every week, clean your stone or tile floor with a damp mop. Use a cleaner appropriate for hard surfaces and grout. Be sure that the cleaner you choose has a neutral pH. Otherwise, it may stain the grout. Avoid cleaners that contain damaging chemicals such as ammonia, chlorine,
vinegar, and acid.
• Clean spills immediately.
• If you spill something on your tile or stone floor, mop or wipe it up immediately. Leaving the substance on the floor may cause stains or other damage.

Restoration

• Refinish or reseal as necessary.
• Depending on the type of tile or stone used, you may need to reseal or refinish your floor at regular intervals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for resealing or refinishing the floor.
• Know when to replace tile or stone flooring.
• If your floor can’t be restored, consider replacing it. Patina Studios offers new flooring and installation to customers in Lexington, South Carolina and the surrounding area.

For more expert advice in caring for and maintaining your beautiful tile and stone floors, Patina Studios is here to help! Our flooring professionals can answer any and all questions you may have, including if it’s time for new flooring. Visit our showroom, to see your boundless flooring possibilities today!