Elegant tile floors make an immediate statement once you walk in the door. Tiles are a versatile flooring choice that offers endless choices. If you’re interested in seeing some tile options, check out our tile page or contact us! 

Tiles are a durable flooring choice with plenty of benefits. Different tile types require varying levels of care. Ceramic and porcelain tiles require low maintenance. Coarser stone tiles (slate, marble, granite or limestone) need individualized care and often specific cleaners.

Care for Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

Your ceramic and porcelain tiles will sparkle if you follow a few simple cleaning steps. 

  • Regularly sweep and clean up dirt and debris from your floors. Sand and grit can dull glazed surfaces, but these types of tile resist dirt well. 
  • Use a rag or a non-sponge mop. Sponge mops can push dirt into grout lines making your floors harder to clean. Change the water often so you aren’t pushing around filthy water. 
  • Floors hazy after cleaning? If so, you might have some residue on your flooring. You can remove residue by using an all-purpose cleaner. 
  • Dry your tiles with a rag to prevent water spots rather than letting them air dry.  

Care for Stone Tiles

Coarser tiles, like slate, marble, granite and limestone, add a unique look to your flooring. You can’t clean stone tiles like you would ceramic and porcelain flooring. Some cleaning chemicals can damage stone flooring. Instead, you’ll want to use products specifically designed for your type of stone tile. 

  • Slate: You can use a mild cleaner on slate tiles, but not anything acidic (like lemon or vinegar). 
  • Marble: Marble tends to be high-maintenance, but its look makes it worth it. Generally, avoid cleaning marble tile with anything that has an acidic pH level. Avoid cleaners with lemon or vinegar because they can etch the surface of the tile. Don’t use cleansers that could scratch the marble, such as brushes with tough bristles or scouring powders.
  • Granite: Use a pH-neutral cleanser on granite tiles. Harsher cleansers can discolor or streak granite. Buffing can keep your granite floor shiny, as well. 
  • Limestone: Select a cleaner that’s designed for limestone tiles. Clean up spills quickly before they can seep into the stone. It’s also important to seal your limestone floors every few years to make sure they look their best. 

Clean Your Grout

Dirty grout doesn’t help your tile floors shine. Unfortunately, grout tends to be porous and absorbs stains. The good news is you can clean your grout and get your flooring looking fresh again. You can either purchase a grout cleaner or make your own (baking soda and water). It’s a good idea to test a small, hidden area first. If your grout is stained, leave the cleaner on overnight. In the morning, use a stiff nylon (not metal) brush to scrub the grout. After about 10-14 days, you can seal grout with a silicone-based sealer that will prevent future stains. 

Have Tile Questions?

Hopefully these tips help you keep your tile looking new and ensure you can enjoy your tile floor for years to come. Don’t have a tile floor but want one? We can help! Please reach out so our Graham’s Design Team can work with you to select the perfect tile for your home. You’ll be surprised by how many tile options you’ll see!