Use and Care Manual

Developed by Nature Porfido
12 in. x 24 in. tile shown in herringbone pattern
Dal-Tile Corporation
TILE CARE &
MAINTENANCE
CARE & MAINTENANCE GUIDE PAGE 6 OF 6
MOSAIC GLASS AND MIXED MATERIALS
General Cleaning
Tile, whether glazed ceramic or porcelain, should be
maintained on a regular and frequent basis to prevent
build-up of soil, grease, residue, soap detergents,
sealers, dampness, liquids, etc., to keep the surface
clean and lessen slippery conditions.
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles require minimal
maintenance. Either can be cleaned with clear water
and/or a pH neutral liquid cleaner (soapless). Follow
with a clear water rinse and wipe dry to prevent film
formation. As with most porcelains, spilled liquids
may stain light-colored products if not promptly
removed. Neither sealing nor acid cleaning is
recommended for any of Marazzis glazed ceramic or
porcelain tile.
Glass Tile
Use a glass cleaner and a soft lint-free cloth for
cleaning glass tile. To remove soap scum or water
deposits a minimally abrasive cleanser and soft
bristle brush can be used.
STONE MOSAIC
Routine Care
Natural Stone products are porous by nature and
many of the cleaners acceptable for use on ceramic
tile can stain, damage or dull stone.
Dirt and dust will scratch the surface of stone. Natural
Stone should be cleaned with neutral cleaners and
should never contain acid or bleach. Acids, even a light
solution of vinegar and water, will etch and eventually
damage Natural Stone.
Stone Cleaners
Only use cleaners specifically designed for cleaning
stone. These cleaners contain no acids and are
concentrated neutral pH cleaners that will not aect
existing sealers or wax-type coatings. The surface of
the stone should be dampened with clear water. This
will keep the cleaning solution on the surface so it can
be eective. A solution of the cleaner and water mixed
to manufacturers instructions should be applied to
the stone surface with a sponge or mop.
On walls, kitchen counters or vanity tops, a spray
bottle can be used to apply the cleaning solution.
Allow sitting for manufacturers specified amount of
time (usually 3 to 5 minutes). Agitate with a sponge,
synthetic mop, soft bristle brush or through the use of
a floor scrubbing machine. Mop up dirty solution and
bu dry.
Once the stone has been cleaned, you can periodically
apply a spray-bu wax-type floor finish to enhance
the beauty and luster of polished stone. Apply the
finish with a spray applicator and bu immediately
with a white nylon pad.
Pre-Grout Sealing
A non-sanded grout is strongly recommended for
Natural Stone installations due to the narrow grout
joints customarily preferred. All travertine, slate,
tumbled stone and honed/flamed/unpolished granite
should be sealed prior to the grouting process to
protect them from staining. The application of a good
quality sealer should be used as a grout sealer and
applied again as the final sealing process once the
installation is finished.
Metal Tile
To clean, use a liquid non-abrasive household cleaner.
DO NOT use scouring pads, steel wool, sandpaper or
other abrasive products. Avoid cleaners containing
ammonia, bleach, abrasives, or other hazardous/
polluting compounds. Always test in a small
inconspicuous area while using a new cleaner to
ensure compatibility.