General Maintenance Guidelines For Ceramic Tile

CSI Division
Division 9 - Finishes
Section
Ceramic Tile
Last Modified

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.
    • Cement grout is considerably more porous than ceramic tile and more susceptible to the accumulation of dirt and stains.
    • Epoxy mortar grout is not as prone to soiling and staining.
Do’s Don’ts
  • Dry clean ceramic tile by sweeping with a brush or dust mop or by vacuuming.
  • Use oily sweeping compounds, alkaline cleaning compounds, sealers, polishes, and non-slip coatings are NOT recommended.
  • Remove minor soils by mopping with water.
  • DO NOT leave water or cleaning solution on the floor any longer than necessary.
  • For excessive soiling, use a general-purpose, synthetic detergent mixed with warm water for washing the surface.
  • DO NOT use abrasives or other gritty materials on GLAZED TILES.
  • Rinse thoroughly and mop up rinse water, leaving the floor as dry as possible.
  • DO NOT use acids on glazed tiles.
  • Dirty grouting can be scrubbed with a stiff brush and a mild abrasive powder.
  • Avoid using steel wool pads for scrubbing (they may leave rust spots).
  • USE nylon abrasive pads for heavy duty cleaning.
  • DO NOT use abrasive powders for scrubbing ceramic tile (it is messy and almost impossible to remove).
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Last updated: Aug 13, 2017
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