Use and Care Manual

28
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use a sealer?
Stone, grout and masonry materials are porous and, if
not properly sealed, can easily stain. Sealers protect
the surface from damage caused by exposure to
chemicals, foot traffic, food, beverages, cooking oils
and a variety of other contaminants. Sealers can also
greatly reduce maintenance by allowing easy cleanup
of spills and dirt. Some sealers can enhance the natural
colors and veining in stone, some keep the surface
looking natural and others produce a gloss.
How often do I need to apply a sealer?
This depends on the type and quality of sealer used,
the type of tile or stone, where the tile is located (interior/
exterior, kitchen or bath), the type and frequency of foot
traffic, and cleaning and maintenance routines. UltraCare
sealers have a standard expected protection for up to
five years and maximum protection of up to 15 years.
How do I know if the sealer is working?
A simple, effective way to test the sealer is to drip water
onto the treated surface and allow it to stand for several
minutes. If the water leaves no mark when wiped off,
then the sealer is working. If the water penetrates and
leaves a dark spot, it’s probably time to reseal.
What’s the difference between a
penetrating/impregnating sealer and a
topical sealer?
Penetrating sealers, often called impregnators,
penetrate into the surface, leaving the surface
unchanged in appearance. Topical sealers form a film
and sit on top of the surface, giving the surface a sheen.
What is the best way to apply a sealer?
Sealers can be applied using a paint pad, sponge or
roller. Spraying is generally not recommended, but can
be effective in some applications.
What is the best cleaner for tile and
stone?
Always use a neutral-pH cleaner for routine and daily
maintenance. Acidic cleaners should only be used on
acid-resistant surfaces and strong alkaline cleaners
should only be used in heavily soiled or neglected
areas, for periodic cleaning. Neither acid nor alkaline
cleaners should be used for regular maintenance.
How often should I clean my tile?
This will depend on what type of stone or tile is used,
where the tile is located, how much foot traffic, etc.
Rough-textured stone or tile will require a more frequent
and intensive cleaning than a smooth or polished tile.
Kitchen floors will need to be cleaned more frequently
than bedroom floors. Generally, cleaning once per
week is sufficient.
I have a stain on my polished marble
floor that won’t come out. Is there
anything that will help?
Yes. UltraCare Deep Stain Remover for Stone is
designed to help absorb food, grease and oil stains
from natural stone. This product is non-toxic, non-
flammable, and is safe and easy to use.
My contractor used epoxy grout on my
tile and now there is a residue on the
surface that won’t come off. Is there a
cleaner that will take off the haze?
Yes. UltraCare Epoxy Grout Haze Remover is designed
specifically to remove dried epoxy residue from
the surface of ceramic tile, porcelain tile and stone
surfaces. This professional-strength, water-based
formula is easy to use, low-odor and non-flammable.
After my tile was installed, a cement-like
haze has been seen on the tiles. What is
it and can it be removed?
Yes, it can be removed. It is known as “grout haze”
and is caused by leftover cement from the grouting
process that wasn’t properly removed during the
cleaning stage. This haze can easily be removed from
the tile surface by using UltraCare Cement Grout Haze
Remover. This proprietary, acid-based cleaner will
easily remove cement grout haze from the surface of
acid-resistant tiles. Never use acid-based cleaners on
marble surfaces, as they can cause damage to these
surfaces.