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Tile care and Maintenance
Tile care and Maintenance
July 13, 2022
Tile cleaning and maintenance has never been so easy. CTM offers a range of different cleaners for different purposes. Should you have any queries or problems, please visit your nearest store and talk to one of our knowledgeable staff members.
Glazed Tiles
Unglazed Tiles
Glazed Ceramic Tiles
Heavy-Duty Tiles (Kilimanjaro Tiles)
For the most part, glazed tiles simply need to be wiped with a damp cloth or sponge to maintain their lustre.
Stains may be removed with a mild solution of Porcelain and Ceramic Tile Cleaner.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, as regular use will eventually scratch the glazing of the tiles.
Soap should also not be used, as it leaves a film that dulls the lustre and promotes the growth of mildew in damp areas.
Any cleaning solution should always be thoroughly rinsed off with clean water.
Glazed tiles require no polishing or buffing to maintain their finish. The only exception may be terracotta or quarry tiles which could be oiled, waxed or sealed. We recommend Surface Sealer or Deep Seal.
Soiled grout can be cleaned with a plastic bristle brush and Grout Renew. Avoid using steel wool, as minute particles remain behind and rust in the surface of the grout, producing unsightly stains.
Unglazed floor tiles and terracotta tiles can be cleaned with the same solutions used for glazed tiles above.
Do not use powdered cleaners, as undissolved powder penetrates the pores and dulls the tiles.
Sealants are recommended on unglazed tiles.
Where required in residential situations, the manufacturer’s instructions should be followed.
With normal use, sealants usually do not last longer than three or four years and resealing may be required.
Shower areas require a thorough weekly cleaning to remove hard-water deposits, soap scum and traces of bath oils.
Showers should also be well ventilated in order for them to dry out thoroughly to prevent the growth of mildew on walls and floors. Mildew can further be controlled by spraying or wiping the mildew down with Mould Buster.
Glaze is the layer found on the face of the tile by firing an applied coating. This has three effects.
- -It creates an impermeable surface.
- It protects the tile for considerably longer wear.
- It adds an attractive, reflective sheen to the base colour of the tile.
Glazed ceramic tiles are suitable for any number of interior designs, from classic and modern to natural and rustic. Durability can vary, depending on the resistance to abrasion, but with proper maintenance and treatment, you should enjoy a good 10 years of a beautifully finished surface - true value for money!
PRO TIP:
Ensure consistent shading and quality in your batch purchase of glazed ceramic tiles by checking the box labelling and inspecting sample tiles across the batch. This will give you peace of mind that you won’t experience matching problems should you require additional tiles.
These tiles are exceptionally strong and durable.
The extrusion process applies highly compacted pressure to the make-up of the tile body, while a higher firing temperature results in a tile that is rock-solid.
The look of this tile is ‘earthy’, imitating natural stone. In fact, heavy-duty tiles can be confidently used for both interior and exterior areas, offering a slip-resistant solution that doesn’t require covering or protecting the surface.
PRO TIP:
Heavy-duty tiles are available in three sizes, the most extensively used being 240X240 and 330X300. You may notice slight tonal discrepancies between tiles, however this is part of the natural appeal and intended charm of the tile.
