Tile and grout have many variables that can benefit home to standardized options to unique and customized looks with the options of manmade tile to natural stone along with colors, patterns, textures, compositions, sizes, and other style characteristics. When it comes to the proper care and maintenance of tile however, there is more to mopping the surface and sweeping the loose dirt. In order to keep the tile and grout looking immaculate, preserve the condition and longevity, there is more a little more maintenance involved, depending on the tile’s origins.

DIY VS Professional Tile Care

When heading to the department store for supplies, many homeowners can quickly become overwhelmed with the options for cleaning, sealing, and polishing; some of the products even claim to do all of these things in one application. Where homeowners should wash the tile according to the type of tile or stone they have on a routine basis, they should not depend on these products for the overall care and maintenance. At best, these products are heavily diluted and do not hold up to expectations. Professional maintenance should be incorporated every 6-12 months in addition to your cleaning efforts to maintain the luster, cleanliness, and shine of your tile and grout. We at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to elaborate on polishing, sealing, and cleaning for your tile and grout.

Cleaning, Polishing & Sealing Natural Stone

All manmade tile and natural stone tile need to be professionally cleaned and most need the sealant application and a polishing service to maintain the appeal in addition to your daily and weekly cleaning routine.
1) Cleaning. Even if the tile and grout appear clean at face value, a professional cleaning should still be scheduled at least once a year. Just as you ensure the surface is cleaned on a daily basis, even if there is no obvious layers of filth, extracting the grit and grime from the porous material is essential not only to keep the tile and grout looking amazing, but prevent the deterioration from accelerating. Professionals have several methods to clean tile and grout, but most rely on the steaming power to loosen the compacted soil and help the gunk rise out of the porous cavities and with powerful suctioning equipment, the debris is completely removed. Detergents aid in loosening the substances as well as sanitizing the surface, making the professional cleaning a superior clean.
2) Polishing. Not all tile requires a polishing but generally, the natural stone is typically polished, benefiting it in 2 primary ways. After a professional cleaning, getting the stone polished will enhance the elegance of the stone and the second benefit is that it protects the tile from fingerprint smudges and water spots more readily. Polishing the tile in the shower/tub area also prevents moisture and soap scum buildup.
3) Sealing. Sealants are a protective coating that help the tile and grout resist substance and moisture, reducing the risk of staining as well as decreasing the chances of mildew and mold growth. Natural stone has a tendency to need the sealants more than other options. For example, granite countertops that are properly sealed offer more resistance to etching, soil buildup, and stains. As time marches on and with daily cleaning practices, the sealants eventually wear down; making routine sealing applications a necessary element to the maintenance. If you are unsure, a simple test can determine the sealants integrity. On the tiled surface, drop approximately 3” diameter of water in several places and let it sit for 30 minutes. Upon your return, if there is a dark circle or a water ring, it indicates the water penetrated through, letting you know a sealing service is due.

Natural Stone Care & More in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada

While tile and grout is a very durable and resistant option for the surfaces throughout your home, it still requires maintenance to protect it from the vulnerabilities. Professional cleaning, sealing, and polishing are important at least once a year and more often as needed in your Las Vegas, NV home or business. When your tile needs these services, call Silver State Floor Restoration today to ensure it is done right!