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Historic Preservation - Technical Procedures

Spectitle:
General Maintenance Guidelines For Ceramic Tile

Procedure code:
0931001S

Source:
Hspg Prepared For Nps - Sero

Division:
Finishes

Section:
Ceramic Tile

Last Modified:
02/24/2012

Details:
General Maintenance Guidelines For Ceramic Tile



GENERAL MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES FOR CERAMIC TILE


This standard includes general guidelines for maintaining ceramic
tile floors.

-    In cleaning ceramic tile, keep in mind that there are two
    different surfaces, the tile and the grout.

    1.   Cement grout is considerably more porous than ceramic
         tile and more susceptible to the accumulation of dirt and
         stains.

    2.   Epoxy mortar grout is not as prone to soiling and
         staining.

DOS

-    Dry clean ceramic tile by sweeping with a brush or dust mop or
    by vacuuming.

-    Remove minor soils by mopping with water.

-    For excessive soiling, use a general-purpose, synthetic
    detergent mixed with warm water for washing the surface.

-    Rinse thoroughly and mop up rinse water, leaving the floor as
    dry as possible.

-    Dirty grouting can be scrubbed with a stiff brush and a mild
    abrasive powder.  

-    USE nylon abrasive pads for heavy duty cleaning.

DON'TS

-    Oily sweeping compounds, alkaline cleaning compounds, sealers,
    polishes, and non-slip coatings are NOT recommended.

-    DO NOT leave water or cleaning solution on the floor any
    longer than necessary.

-    DO NOT use abrasives or other gritty materials on GLAZED
    TILES.

-    DO NOT use acids on glazed tiles.

-    Avoid using steel wool pads for scrubbing (they may leave rust
    spots).

-    DO NOT use abrasive powders for scrubbing ceramic tile (it is
    messy and almost impossible to remove).

                             END OF SECTION