Routine Tile Care

Wipe glazed wall tiles periodically using a cloth or sponge dampened with a neutral, nonoil-based household cleaner. Vacuum glazed floor tiles regularly to remove dirt and other gritty particles, then damp mop or sponge with a neutral, all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner. Do not use ammonia; it may discolor grout.

Travertine Resin, Stone and Slate, Ceramic

These items may be cleaned with any neutral, non-abrasive cleaner suitable for ceramic tile or stone. Do not clean with scouring pads, steel wool, sandpaper, or other abrasive materials.

Metal

To clean, use an ordinary household cleaner. For best results, we recommend a liquid, non-abrasive cleaner. Powdered or abrasive household cleaners should be tested in a small inconspicuous area to ensure that no damage will result. Do not clean with scouring pads, steel wool, sandpaper or other abrasive materials. Do not use cleaners containing ammonia, bleach or other harsh chemicals. Do not drag or slide furniture or appliances across the tile or permanent damage may result.

Grout Care

Once the tile has been cleaned and dried (shortly after installation), grout joints should be treated with a silicone sealer. Grout is porous, and sealing it will simplify future maintenance. Epoxy grouts do not require a sealer. Reapply sealant semi-annually for maximum stain protection.

Heavy-Duty Cleaning

Glazed Wall Tile

Clean glazed wall tiles with scouring powder or all-purpose cleaner applied to a non-metallic pad. Rinse and wipe dry.

Glazed Floor Tile

Use a commercial tile cleaner, or apply a strong solution of an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner or scouring powder paste. Let stand for five minutes; brush, then rinse with clean water. Wipe dry.

Badly Soiled Countertops

Apply a solution of scouring powder and very hot water to countertops. Let stand for five minutes. Scrub with a stiff brush and rinse.

Maintenance

Stone and Slate - Stone and Slate products require unique care. Proper care will preserve the natural stone's original appearance.

Use a neutral cleaner with a pH between 7 and 10.Avoid all purpose cleaners or soaps containing water-soluble inorganic or crystallizing salts, harmful alkali or acids. Stone and Slate products should be sealed with either a penetrating or surface coating type sealer, depending on the desired look.

Test the sealant on the stone or slate for effect on color prior to full application. Sealed surfaces should be tested periodically for effectiveness. Many factors will contribute to the length of time a sealer will last, including the type and texture of the stone or slate, wear factors, cleaning methods used, weather conditions and sun exposure. Commonly available tile cleaning products can be used to remove soap scum, hard-water deposits and mildew stains. These products are available at local supermarkets or home service centers. For soft water, use an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner. Allow cleaner to stand for five minutes before lightly scrubbing with a sponge. Rinse well.

Maintenance Products

Tile cleaning products and sealants may be purchased at your local home center or floor covering store. Consult the manufacturer of the cleaner/sealant for usage instructions and more detailed information regarding the impact of their product on your tile, stone and grout prior to application.

Do's and Don'ts

• Do not use cleaners containing acid or bleach for routine maintenance.
• Do not use wax-based cleaners, oil-based detergents or sealants to maintain your tile (sealants may be used on grout joints).
• Do not use harsh cleaning aids like steel wool pads or any scouring pads containing metal.
• Do not use a cleaning agent that contains color (unglazed tile only).
• Do test scouring powders and sealants on a small area prior to full application.
• Do use a sealer on grout joints.
• Do have a damaged or broken tile removed and replaced only by a qualified tile contractor.