Tiles play an important role in making a great impression, whether on the interior or exterior level. However, we all have to admit the fact that tiles on the exterior often have to face more challenges than the tiles lying inside. From heavy foot traffic to harsh lighting, weather effects and other environmental factors affect the overall beauty and look of the tiles. Though natural stone tiles like marble, granite, and limestone can withstand different weather conditions, it is their maintenance that matters a lot.
Though they will not show signs of cracking or chipping thanks to our carefully selected material and crafted tiles and pavers created with high-class precision and provided after a strict quality check if you don’t maintain them, then what would be the point of keeping those tiles? This is why our guide will help you to take care of your tiles in the best way possible. But first, let’s discuss why you should know about this.
Why Tile Care Matters?
Here is why tile cleaning matters a lot.
Better Safety
Spills on the floor tiles can be slippery. Disposing of leaks quickly to prevent accidents. It is especially important for households with senior citizens and children.
Preserves Tile Finish
Some of the tiles are glazed or finished with a protective layer, which is harmed by dirt and small debris. Frequent cleaning of the finish presents the basis for its maintenance and preservation.
Longevity Of Tile Life:
Dirt and gravel can wear the tile out. With time, they can become the major cause of damage to tiles, especially tiles made of softer material. This gradual damage to tiles, but regular cleaning will prevent this damage. Hence, you will extend the life of your tiles.
Clean Appearance:
The cleaning is performed regularly so that tiles appear flawlessly. Dust, dirt, stains, and grime can reduce the beauty and appeal of ceramic and porcelain tiles. The shining and coloring of the tiles remain undiminished for a long time due to regular cleaning, thereby preserving the beauty of the tiles. You can consider selecting i.e. Oxidant Water-based Stain Remover for natural stone and porcelain surfaces
Better Hygiene:
Floors can be a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. Plus, they can contain allergens and other nasties. Regular tile cleaning removes this category of microorganisms, therefore contributing to a healthier living environment that deserves more attention in homes where kids are small, the elderly live, or people who suffer from allergies or respiratory diseases.
Maintenance The Grout
The grout lines will absorb stains and will become discolored if they are not cleaned frequently. However, it sometimes may be difficult to lighten this discoloration. Consistent cleaning stops grout from becoming greasy, and it stops grout from getting stained.
Mold and Mildew Prevention
In areas with high moisture levels, like bathrooms and kitchens, tiles are the places for the development of mould and mildew. Regular disinfection can hinder the growth of fungi, which can be harmful to human health and can be very resistant to different elimination methods when they have settled down.
Improves Overall Room Ambiance:
A cleaned floor is one of the most important parts of a well-maintained room. Dirty or littered floors can make even the most glamorous-looking space feel messed up.
Clean And Maintain Different Types Of Tiles
Here is what you need to know regarding all this.
How To Clean And Polish Marble Floor Tiles?
Use a dry mop:
Marble Tiles are a tough but delicate material so before using cleaning solutions from NT Pavers, you should clean the loose and trapped dirt from the tiles. A dry dust mop will be sufficient enough to eliminate any excess dirt and will bring better results when using a damp mop.
Mix a cleaning solution:
Warm water and a mild, neutral pH cleaning agent should be mixed in the correct ratio in a container. Alternatively, you can dilute dishwashing soap and water with a few drops of marble cleaning agent, i.e. Aqua Treatment Natural Stone Sealer. To rinse the tiles, use another container filled with clean water.
Mop and rinse:
As soon as you have the cleaning solution ready, begin mopping. Clean small areas first with a soft cotton cloth or microfiber mop soaked in the cleaning solution, then wring it out well. Getting rid of dirt quickly and efficiently can be achieved by working in a small area. To prevent the marble from yellowing and rusting, use a second mop soaked in clean water to rinse the newly mopped floor gently. You can consider i.e. Mar Gel Plus Stain Removal For Natural Stone for a better marble cleaning experience.
Managing tough stains On Marble Tiles
For tough stains, use the following methods:
To Clean Scuffs:
Scuffs on marble tiles can be removed gently with a tennis ball.
Ink Stains:
Rub the inked surface gently with a soft cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol. After a few minutes, wipe it clean with clean water. Repeat the process until the ink has been removed.
Organic Stains:
Repeat the process until the stain is removed with 12% hydrogen peroxide soaked in a soft cloth. Rinse the area with clean water afterward.
For Oily Stains:
The oily stain should be cleaned with warm water and a few drops of HIDRO SST Natural Stone Sealer. If the stain does not go away, dust a few tablespoons of cornstarch on the oily area and leave it for at least four hours. Repeat this process as often as necessary.
How To Clean Travertine Tiles
Act Fast:
Immediate removal of the fluid from the designated area or a quick sweeping of solid debris is the best method to employ quickly to prevent such stains on your travertine tiles. Adopting this method will give you enough time to avoid impossible-to-remove blemishes.
Seal:
You have to be careful and select a sealant, especially for the travertine tiles for the exterior wall tiles if they are to be placed outdoors in a lanai area. It will keep the shining and clean look of the travertine tiles that you may expect after scrubbing.
Mopping:
Dry mopping your travertine floors with a clean, dry dust mop is a good way to go. The purpose of it is to daily clean away dirt, dust, and debris. Additionally, if required, you can softly mop it with warm water in case of travertine. If you need to, you can also use travertine floor cleaner i.e. Deep Degreaser For Natural Stone which is specific for travertine.
Maintain Regularly:
It is advisable to cleaning the travertine tiles every few days to get rid of the dirt that can become the major enemy of the finesse and eventually make the stone fade. Whenever you face the task of precise and seal cleansing for your travertine floor tile surfaces. You can consult NT Pavers to learn more about cleaning different types of tiles.
How To Clean Limestone?
Sealing The Limestone
The first step towards protecting your limestone against stains is sealing it. Because limestone is porous, it will need to be sealed to prevent staining from spills. It can last up to two years after it has been sealed. The best way to test this is to see if the water beads up on the floor or if it is soaked up. If it doesn’t bead, then you know it needs to be re-sealed.
Vacuuming Or Sweeping Dust And Debris
You can use a soft broom or a vacuum to clean spills on your floor that are not liquid. As dirt and dust build up on your limestone flooring accompanied by walking on, it will wear and lose its shine, potentially scratching your tile flooring. You should sweep or vacuum it daily. Put a mat at each entryway to catch excess dirt so it doesn’t get tracked inside. This will help prevent this.
Using Specialized Limestone Cleaner
Limestone tiles cannot be cleaned with just any cleaner. It is important to use a special limestone cleaner if you want your flooring to last a long time. Lemons and vinegar, which are acid-based solutions, are often used in homemade cleaners. You may damage your limestone flooring as this chemical may damage your limestone. You can consider selecting i.e. Deep Degreaser For Natural Stone for a better limestone cleaning experience.
Use A Wet Mop Or Soft Clothes
The limestone flooring should never be mopped with a hard surface. You may want to mop your floor regularly but use a soft cloth and a minimal amount of water when you do.
Spills Require Immediate Action
Spills can seep into the limestone and remain there over time if not cleaned immediately. To avoid stains, clean spills as soon as possible.
Use a steamer for a deep clean
It is possible to steam your floor if it has a few stains or if you want to deep clean it from time to time. If dirt and other materials have sneaked into the floor, it can cause it to appear stained. These machines can be rented from home improvement stores. Steamers can help loosen the dirt in those pockets and dissolve them. Make sure to dry the floor completely when you’re done.
How To Clean Sandstone?
Do not Scrape and Brush:
It is best to avoid brushing or scraping the sandstone if it is chipped, scaled, flaked, or has other signs of deterioration during the cleaning process. You should use only a high-quality biological cleaning solution or else you might do more harm than good. Find out what kind of stone it is next and what technique should be used to clean a stone tile depending on the kind of stone it is.
Cleaning Gently:
The major point is to be gentle as much as you can despite the type of sandstone you are cleaning. Safely use some proper yet kind of hard techniques without harming the actual stones. However, biological problems like mold and lichens can be time-consuming especially if they are attached for a longer time.
Clean Water And Mopping:
Ensure the stone is fully saturated with clean water and begin with clean water, a soft scrub brush, and plastic scrapers. Various brushes effectively clean sandstone. It is better to keep different types of brushes on hand with multiple sizes and different types of bristles. Always start with the soft brushes and only use the hard ones if it is necessary. Metal and wired brushes aren’t recommended and it is better to avoid them at all costs.
Use of non-ionic detergent:
To avoid staining and damaging the stone, you should only use non-ionic detergent to clean the stone tiles. They used to have neutral PH that would affect or harm the sandstones. However, do not expect any miraculous treatment as only slowly scrubbing and gradually cleaning will bring out the best result.
How To Clean Porcelain Tiles?
Sweep or Vacuum
Regular sweeping is just enough to keep the porcelain tile looking its best. You should start the porcelain tile cleaning by sweeping the floor with a dust mop or vacuum to remove dust and debris.
Remove Dirt
Dirt compiling on tile can result in fading color or dirty grout lines over time. So remove any dirt and grime sticking on the floor tile by using a soft nylon brush.
Apply Cleaning Solution
Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for porcelain tiles. Do not use an abrasive or harsh cleaner. You can also use a mixture of soap and mild detergent. You can consider selecting i.e. Tile Cleaner For Porcelain Tile.
Mop The Surface
Use a mop dampened in the cleaning solution to mop the entire surface. Do not leave a single area. Mop the porcelain tile thoroughly.
Dry And Buff
Once you are done mopping, you should leave the floor to dry. Once it is dried out, buff it to give it a new shine.
Final Words on Cleaning The Tiles
Cleaning the tiles can enhance the beauty of your exterior without a doubt. However, it is crucial to understand that not all tiles can be cleaned in the same way. This is the reason why you should keep in mind what type of tiles require the specified cleaning methods. NT Pavers already offers several comprehensive guides on maintaining and cleaning different types of tiles. So you can browse our guide regarding tile upkeep and maintenance. Contact us to get a high-quality and premium collection of tiles and pavers for indoors and outdoors.