TILE CARE & MAINTENANCE
KEEPING TILES IN TOPP CONDITION
Although tiles can stand the test of time, a certain level of care needs to be maintained to keep them in their best possible condition. Here, Alan Saunders, Head of Trade at Topps Tiles, discusses how to ensure tiles are maintained and cared for properly.
As with all materials, the level of maintenance needed depends on the material of the tile, as each material has its own distinct requirements. Porcelain and ceramic tiles, once painted, are naturally waterproof, meaning they are ideal for use in areas of the home that are often exposed to water. These tiles require a mild, specialist tile detergent mixed with warm, clean water to keep them clean and protected.
Tiles made of elements such as natural stone, although characteristically hardwearing, require a higher level of care to preserve their surface and natural materials. It is recommended that tilers use specialist cleaning and maintenance products, such as stone-specific sealants, cleaning solutions and grout protector, to ensure tiles stay in top condition. Once correctly sealed, they will produce a lasting and practical tile which can stand up to a series of every day demands.
When it comes to tile maintenance, it is easy for people to overlook other important areas, such as grout, and just focus on the tile. Tilers should keep in mind that it is just as important to look after these elements so that a tiled surface stays in great condition and lasts for some time.
Grout is susceptible to mould growth and can easily take in dirt and debris. For this reason, it is advised that people use a chamois-style cloth rather than a sponge mop to clean their tiles, as the latter can push dirt and debris into the grout which is not only unsightly, but quite abrasive on a tile. Hard cloths and sponges can sometimes be the cause of cracks and other wear-and-tear that can shorten the life of your tiled space.
Topps Tiles Grout Protector, which is part of the Topps Tiles tile care range, is a sealant specifically designed to help protect and clean the grout, ridding it of mould growth and staining when used regularly. This specialist solution also protects the tile from water absorption, helping to prolong the structural composition of tiles over the years.
The Care Range was designed to make it easier for tilers, installers and DIY-savvy homeowners to achieve a flawless and professional finish. The kit ensures the correct preparation and protection of tiles, as well as enhancing and cleaning to elongate their lives.
As well as using these specialist products, there are a series of things that can be done every day to maintain them. Installers should advise their customers to sweep, vacuum and mop to gently clear away any surface dirt and
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spills. Tiles made of natural materials are likely to soak up any spills due to their porous surface so it’s important that these stains and spillages are cleaned up and removed before they become embedded into the tile or grout. These steps can also enhance a tile’s shine and colour.
As more homeowners are opting to stay in their homes for longer, it’s important for the installers and tilers to sit down with the homeowner and discuss high-traffic areas within the home, this way they can specify the right tile and material for that specific area. It also allows the tiler to offer them a maintenance package at the point of purchase to ensure the product stands the test of time.
This approach should also be replicated when it comes to bathroom wall tiles and kitchens.
www.toppstiles.co.uk www.tomorrowstileandstone.co.uk
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