Floor Care: Tile

Proper maintenance is the key to a trouble-free ceramic-tile floor. You should damp-mop your floor at least once a week (more often in heavy-traffic areas), with a mixture of ¹/₄ cup white vinegar to two gallons of clean tap water. Never use a detergent cleaner or soap, because it can dull the curface or promote the growth of mildew. Caution: Allow new ceramic tile and grout to dry for for 72 hours (three days) after your installation is completed before damp mopping. A slight film may appear on top of your new tile from the grout. This can be removed by rubbing with a dry towel or damp-mopping after the three-day drying period.

Protective Mats
Good-quality entry- and exit mats will help protect your ceramic from premature wear. Mats are also suggested at heavy pivot locations, such as in front of the kitchen sink or stove.

Chair and Table Protection
Any metal, wood, or plastic that will be resting, sliding, or rolling on top of your new tile should have an appropriate protective pad such as felt affixed to it. Pay specific attention to the chairs that are used most often, check all casters to ensure they are in good shape, and that no metal will be toughing the tile. Exterior metal that touches or rests on the tile may rust or corrode and cause staining to your new floor.