Saltillo tiles are often a preferred choice for flooring in homes and offices due to their natural, rustic charm and versatility. These beautiful tiles are named after the Mexico city of Saltillo where they are handmade from local clay. They offer a warm, earthy touch to any space. However, their porous nature, prone to staining, makes Saltillo tile maintenance a unique task. Today, Silver State Floor Restoration would like to dive into the world of Saltillo tile cleaning and sealing, sharing practical tips and methods that will help keep your tiles looking pristine and vibrant for years to come.
What are Saltillo Tiles
Before we talk about cleaning and sealing, it’s important to understand what sets Saltillo tiles apart. These tiles are usually unglazed and can range from pale honey tones to darker terracotta hues. Their colors, textures, and slight imperfections reflect their hand crafted nature and add to their charm. However, their porous nature makes them very absorbent, which means they can stain or discolor if they are not properly cared for.
Saltillo Tile Cleaning Process
Regular cleaning is an essential part of maintaining the beauty of your Saltillo tiles. Here’s a step by step guide on how Saltillo tile is properly cleaned.
• Sweep or Vacuum: Begin by sweeping or vacuuming your floor to remove any dust or debris. It’s important to remove these particles as they can cause scratches during the wet cleaning process.
• Use pH-neutral Cleaner: Due to the porous nature of Saltillo tiles, acidic or alkaline cleaners can cause damage to the tile. You will want to choose a pH-neutral cleaner specially designed for terracotta tiles. Dilute it with water to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Mop the Floor: Use a soft mop to clean the floor with the diluted solution. Make sure not to over soak the tiles, as excessive water can seep into the tile and cause damage.
• Rinse and Dry: After mopping, rinse the floor with clean water to remove any soap residue. Once rinsed, dry the floor with a towel or cloth to prevent water absorption.
Sealing Saltillo Tiles
Sealing is an essential process to protect Saltillo tiles from stains, dirt, and damage. It fills in the porous surface of the tiles, making them less prone to water, staining and other substances that may absorb into the tile.
• Choose the Right Sealer: Sealers can be water-based or solvent-based. Water-based sealers are easier to apply and have less odor, but solvent-based sealers usually offer better protection.
• Application: Before application, ensure that the tiles are completely dry to avoid trapping moisture into the tile. Apply the sealer evenly with a mop or paint roller, working in small sections.
• Multiple Coats: Depending on the sealer, two to three coats may be necessary. Always wait for the previous layer to completely dry before applying the next coat.
• Dry Time: Allow the sealer to dry completely, usually 24 to 48 hours before walking on the floor or moving furniture back into place.
Saltillo Tile Maintenance is Key
Even after sealing, routine maintenance is key to keeping your Saltillo tiles looking their best. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, coupled with occasional wet cleaning using a pH-neutral cleaner, will suffice. It’s also advisable to reseal the tiles every few years, depending on the traffic and wear the floor experiences.
Tile Cleaning, Sealing & More in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
While Saltillo tiles may require a bit more care than their ceramic or porcelain counterparts, the warmth and character they bring to your space makes it worth the effort. For some, deep cleaning and sealing of the tile may not be a task they are up for. If you need help deep cleaning and sealing your Saltillo tile, contact Silver State Floor Restoration and schedule our services today.
