Use and Care Manual

Like all materials, ceramic tiles need maintenance, including cleaning and sealing. The
frequency of a maintenance program depends on the tiled areas location and the use it gets.
The busier an area is, or the more exposure it has to the elements, the more maintenance it
will require. A bustling family kitchen and a seldom-used guest bath may represent opposite
extremes, but you get the idea. A pool area may need to be cleaned more frequently because
of its exposure to water and chemicals. Your maintenance plan may consist of a weekly clean-
ing and semi-annual resealing or a daily cleaning and monthly resealing—or something in
between.
How to clean
Regularly sweep or vacuum tiled oors to remove any abrasive dirt or debris, which can leave
scratches or stains if dragged across a tiles surface.
To keep your tiled-and-sealed walls and/or oors looking good, cleaning with a solution of 1/4
cup of white vinegar to 2 gallons of water is often sufcient. When a deeper clean is required, we
recommend using specialty cleaners and maintenance products.
When selecting cleaning tools, opt for stiff, bristled plastic brushes, white scouring pads, and
mops. Avoid tools with metal bristles.
We recommend the Laticrete Revitalizer 2-in-1 Citrus Scent Cleaner and Sealant Spray for Natural
Stone & Grout to clean everyday messes. When applied regularly, its built-in sealer extends the
life of the product and prevents stains, making surfaces easier to clean. Before using any product
on your tiles, including cleaners, sealers, and brushes, we recommend testing for damage or dis-
coloration in an inconspicuous area.
Use plenty of clean water when washing tile oors: Rinse, mop, and repeat until the water in the
bucket runs clear.
Pay special attention when cleaning transition areas where oors and walls meet, as well as areas
exposed to more spills or messes, such as the walls behind kitchen appliances.
Do not clean ceramic tile with ammonia or with cleaners that contain bleach and/or acid. Acid
and ammonia-based cleaners may modify grout color.