Posted on June 5th, 2023

The aesthetic appeal and enduring durability of tile floors have long made them a popular choice for homeowners and businesses. Whether you've chosen a classic ceramic, luxurious porcelain, or exquisite marble tile, proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring they continue to enhance your space for years to come. At Alexis Flooring, we have garnered a wealth of knowledge and experience from our many years serving Temple, Pennsylvania, as a premier flooring contractor. In this post, we share essential tips on how to maintain and care for your tile floors.

Why is tile floor maintenance important?

Tile floors, while durable, can lose their luster over time if not properly maintained. Grime and dirt can accumulate in the grout lines, dulling the shine and discoloring your floor. Neglect can lead to the degradation of the protective glaze on the tile surface, making it prone to damage. Regular care and maintenance ensure your tile floors retain their beauty and durability, protecting your investment.

Daily Care for Your Tile Floors

Sweeping or Vacuuming

The daily care of tile floors begins with simple sweeping or vacuuming. This removes dust and dirt particles that can scratch the tile surface when walked on. It’s important to use soft-bristled brooms or vacuum cleaners specifically designed for hard surfaces to avoid causing damage.

Mopping

After sweeping or vacuuming, it’s good practice to mop your tile floors with a damp mop, using warm water. If your tiles are very dirty, consider using a mild detergent. Always dry the floor after mopping to prevent water spots from forming.

Dealing with Stains on Tile Floors

Stains are inevitable, especially in high-traffic areas or places prone to spills like kitchens and bathrooms. The good news is that most tile floors are designed to resist staining. When dealing with stains, it's crucial to act quickly before they seep into the grout.

For organic stains like coffee, tea, or fruit juice, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water usually does the trick. For oil-based stains, a mild dish soap solution can be effective. Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the tile.

How to Clean Tile Grout

Tile grout is often the most challenging part of maintaining a tile floor. It's porous and tends to absorb spills and stains easily. A mixture of baking soda and water applied to the grout lines and left overnight can effectively lift stains. Scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly the next day. For tougher stains, a professional-grade grout cleaner may be needed.

Periodic Deep Cleaning

Over time, daily sweeping and mopping might not be enough to keep your tile floors looking their best. Every few months, consider a deep cleaning. This involves using a steam cleaner or a professional-grade tile cleaner to remove stubborn dirt and grime that normal cleaning can't reach.

Professional Care for Your Tile Floors

While daily maintenance and periodic deep cleaning can go a long way toward maintaining your tile floors, sometimes professional help is needed. Chips, cracks, and deeply embedded stains may require professional repair or cleaning services. At Alexis Flooring, we offer comprehensive flooring installation and maintenance services, ensuring your tile floors always look their best.

Tile Sealing: An Extra Layer of Protection

Tile sealing is an important yet often overlooked aspect of tile maintenance. A quality sealer protects the tile surface from staining, especially in the case of unglazed tiles or natural stone tiles like marble. It also helps keep grout lines cleaner for longer. It's recommended to reseal your tiles every 1-2 years, but always refer to the manufacturer's instructions, as some tiles may not require or be suitable for sealing.

Quick Tips to Prevent Damage to Your Tile Floors

While our focus is on cleaning and maintenance, it's equally important to take preventive measures to minimize potential damage to your tile floors.

• Use doormats: Place doormats at entrances to prevent dirt, sand, and other gritty particles from being tracked onto your tile floors.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Certain cleaning agents can cause damage to your tile floors. Never use cleaners containing acids or bleach on your tiles, as they can wear away the finish.
• Lift, don't drag: When moving furniture or heavy appliances, always lift them rather than drag them across your tile floor to avoid scratches or cracks.
• Promptly clean spills: Any spill, if left unattended, can seep into the grout lines or stain the tile. Cleaning spills promptly minimizes potential damage.
• Use Furniture Pads: Attach felt or rubber pads to the bottom of furniture legs to prevent scratching your tile floors.

Recognizing When It's Time to Call the Professionals

There comes a time when home remedies and maintenance just aren't enough, and that's where we step in. Are you noticing stubborn stains that refuse to disappear? Does your grout remain discolored even after thorough cleaning? Or perhaps your tiles have suffered cracks or chips? These are all signs that it's time to call a professional.

At Alexis Flooring, we understand that every tile floor is unique and deserves a custom approach to care and maintenance. We don’t just provide services; we provide solutions that are tailor-made to your needs. Our team of professionals is trained to handle a variety of flooring materials and is equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to bring back the shine and luster your floor once had.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while tile floors are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, proper care and maintenance are key to keeping them in their best condition. From daily cleaning and stain removal to professional services and preventive measures, we hope this guide has provided you with valuable information to help maintain and care for your tile floors.

Remember, at Alexis Flooring, your satisfaction is our priority. We’re here to answer any questions you may have or assist you with your flooring needs. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us at (484) 797-8252 or [email protected]. We look forward to helping you maintain the beauty of your tile floors for many years to come!