Cleaning Porous Ceramic Floor Tile

Since unglazed floor tiles are very porous and susceptible to surface contaminants they require frequent cleaning to prevent becoming stained and damaged.

Cleaning porous ceramic floor tile.

How to grout porous tile. Porous tiles and stone can be sealed to minimise the entry of water and stains. Natural stone tiles increase the value of a home and appeal to buyers but these decorative tiles also absorb moisture and grout into their surfaces leaving ugly and. Grout is incredibly porous like a giant sponge which means it will absorb any grease grime oils or spills it comes into contact with says leslie reichert green cleaning coach and author of the joy of cleaning and while the culprit may vary from room to room mildew in the bathroom cooking.

Ceramic tiles are typically easy to clean but the grout between the tiles is usually much more difficult to clean. Properly maintaining porous floor tiles preserves their aesthetic appeal and allows them to last longer. With no protective layer of glass unglazed tiles are more difficult to clean. Most ceramic and stone tile is porous meaning it has indentations and an uneven surface that can often be difficult to clean thoroughly with just a mop and a bucket.

If desired buff with a clean rag to get those tiles shining. Combine that with deep set grout lines between the tiles and you are left with an uneven surface that requires an occasional deep cleaning. With tile the difference between dingy and dazzling often comes down to the grout in between. Many homes have ceramic tiles in the bathroom kitchen and other rooms that require periodic cleaning.

To clean tile walls follow the same steps but with a cloth or non metallic scouring pad instead of a mop. Although you can use tile enhancers to improve the appearance of glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles leaving these types of tile floors unsealed will not generally cause lasting damage. On the other hand failing to seal unglazed porous tiles such as those made from terracotta or natural stone can lead to permanent staining and water damage to your new floor. Glazed tiles are more resistant to dirt and moisture than unglazed tiles.

Grout is applied to tiles to lock them tight keep out water and provide a finished look. Ceramic tiles are dense non porous products that will not typically be damaged by most tile cleaning products or scrub pads. But grout is porous substance and often white or light colored so prone to getting dingy. Sealing is the application of a non visible chemical to slow down the penetration of stains into the surface and also holds the stain at a higher level in the tile where it is easier to clean out.