Choosing the best looking tile amongst the available options is the easy part, the difficult part is to maintain the tile for it to keep on looking brand new. Whether you’ve installed porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone, the key to keeping it looking brand new is consistent and correct care.
At Tile Art of Durango, we want to not just install beautiful tiles but also educate the homeowners on how to preserve it. Here’s your go-to guide for keeping your tile floors clean, shiny, and long-lasting
1. It Should be Part of Routine
One of the easiest ways to maintain your tile is by building simple habits into your daily routine:
- Debris and dirt can scratch the surface so it is important to vacuum or sweep regularly.
- Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a “hard floor” setting, avoid anything that may scuff the tile.
- Spills should be wiped up immediately, especially acidic substances like juice, wine, or tomato sauce, which can stain grout or harm natural stone.
Small gritty particles can cause scratches on the tiles.
2. Mop Weekly
Mopping can help clear out small dust from the floor but overdoing it or using harsh products can actually dull the tile over time.
- Use a cleaner specially designed for tile cleaning as it has low pH.
- Avoid vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners unless you’re working with unglazed ceramic or sealed stone; they can break down sealants or leave residue.
- Don’t flood the floor. A damp mop works better than soaking wet; excess water can seep into grout and weaken the adhesive underneath over time.
Bonus tip: After mopping, go over the tile with a dry microfiber cloth for that freshly-installed shine.
3. Grout Maintenance
This is the most ignored part of tile maintenance. Grout can make or break the look of your tile floor. Even if your tile is sparkling clean, dingy grout lines are not appealing.
- Clean grout monthly using a grout-safe cleaner or a DIY solution of baking soda and water.
- Use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub without damaging the grout or tile.
- For tougher stains, consider a steam cleaner, which uses only water and heat. Don’t use harsh chemicals.
If your grout starts to crack or discolor, it may be time to regrout or reseal.
4. Seal When Needed
If you have natural stone tile (like slate, travertine, or marble) or cement-based grout, sealing is non-negotiable. Sealing creates a protective barrier that repels moisture and stains.
- Stone tile typically needs sealing every 1–2 years depending on usage and type.
- Grout should also be resealed every 1–3 years to prevent stains and moisture damage.
Not sure if your floor needs to be sealed? Pour a few drops of water on the tile or grout. If it absorbs quickly, it’s time to reseal.
5. Avoid Dragging Furniture
Dragging heavy furniture across your tile floors can lead to chips, scratches, or cracked tiles.
- Always lift furniture when moving i
- Use felt pads or rubber protectors under table legs, chairs, and couches.
- Rugs and runners not only add comfort and style but also protect high-traffic areas from wear and tear.
6. Know When to Call the Pros
Sometimes, maintenance goes beyond a mop and brush. If you notice:
- Cracked or loose tiles
- Deeply stained grout
- Uneven flooring or moisture buildup
- Discoloration of natural stone
It is recommended to bring in professionals who can assess and fix the issue before it gets worse. At Tile Art of Durango, we can help with repairs, resealing, or even a full tile refresh if needed.
Final Thoughts
Your tile floor should maintain the same fresh look which can be easily achieved with a little routine care. With the right tools, products, and habits, you can keep your floors looking as fresh as the day they were installed.
If you’re ever in doubt about how to care for your specific tile type, we’re here to help. Whether we installed it or not, we’re happy to offer expert advice on getting the most out of your flooring.