Routine tile care
Wipe glazed wall tiles periodically using a cloth or sponge dampened with non-abrasive household cleaner. Vacuum glazed floor tiles regularly to remove dirt and other gritty particles, then damp mop or sponge with a water-based all purpose cleaner. Wax cleaners and oil-based detergents may decrease the slip resistance of ceramic tile. Remember not to use ammonia, as it will discolor grout.

Clean unglazed wall and floor tiles in a similar manner using a solution of water and soap less detergent instead of an all-purpose water-based cleaner.

Grout care
Once the tile has been cleaned and dried (shortly after installation), grout joints should be treated with a silicone sealer. Grout, the material used to fill the spaces between tiles, is porous, and sealing it at this time will simplify maintenance in the future (epoxy grouts do not require a sealer).

We recommend you apply a sealer (grout joint application only) at least twice a year for maximum stain protection.

For all porcelain tiles, we recommend a grout release product to prevent finely powdered pigments from lodging in pores of porcelain surface.

Heavy-duty cleaning
Neglected or heavily trafficked tile may require more intensive cleaning. Clean glazed wall tiles with a scouring power or all purpose, water-based cleaner applied to a non-metallic pad. Rinse and wipe dry.

For glazed floor files, use a commercial tile cleaner, or apply a strong solution of an all-purpose, water-based cleaner or scouring power paste. Let stand for five minutes, brush and scrub. Then rinse with clean water and wipe dry.

For heavy-duty cleaning of unglazed wall tiles, make a paste of scouring power. Apply to surface and let stand for five minutes. Scour with brush, rinse and wipe dry.

Unglazed floor tiles can also be cleaned with a scouring power paste. Let stand for five minutes before scouring with a brush, rinsing and wiping dry. A small brush is suitable for most floors, but you may want to consider suing a scrubbing machine for large areas.

To clean badly soiled countertops, apply a solution of scouring power and very hot water. Let stand for five minutes, and then scrub with a stiff brush and rinse.

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, water-based cleaner. Allow cleaner to stand for five minutes before lightly scrubbing with a sponge. Rinse well.

Cleaners
Prior to usage, consult the manufacture of the cleaner, cleanser or detergent for more detailed instructions for use and the impact of their cleaning solution to your tile product.
NEVER combine ammonia with products containing bleach hazardous gases may result.

Do’s and don’ts
• Do not use cleansers containing acid or bleach for routine maintenance.
• Do not use wax cleaners, oil-based detergents or sealants to maintain your tile (exceptions are made for Quarry). The use of these products may decrease the slip resistance of ceramic tile.
• 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 on unglazed tile.
• Do test scouring powders on a small area.
• Do use a sealer on grout joints.
• Do have a damaged or broken tile removed and replaced only by a qualified tile contractor.

Tumbled stone maintenance
This product requires unique care. Proper care will preserve the Natural Stones 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. Tumbled Stone should be sealed with either a penetrating or surface coating type sealer, depending on desired look. 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 stone, wear factors, cleaning methods used, weather conditions and sun exposure.