Before tile even leaves the factory, it has been through rigorous steps to insure that it is strong, attractive and stain resistant. Even so, there are steps in prevention, care and maintenance that should be done to prolong the life span of your tile for years to come.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “The best defense is a good offense,” and that is certainly true when it comes to a tile installation in your home. Particularly with natural stone products and grout, a good quality sealer can repel stains and lessen both maintenance costs and time in the future. Unfortunately, no sealer lasts indefinitely, but with a recommended time scale of every several years, resealing your tile is a job that is relatively affordable and simple.

Simply cleaning with a solution of mild soap and water on a regular basis is enough to keep tile looking clean and beautiful, but there are instances where more drastic steps need to be taken.  In many cases bleach or other household products can help remove deep set-in stains from your tile or grout.  However, especially with natural stone tiles, most, if not all of these products can etch or scratch the surface of the tile.  For this reason, it is recommended that you use only products specifically formulated for tile care to clean your surfaces.  If you have any doubt about the safety of using a cleaning product on your tile, contact the knowledgeable staff at Southeastern Tile Connection and let them advise you on what is best for your particular type of tile.

True to the meaning of the word, maintenance is an on-going proposition that goes hand in glove with prevention and care.  Following simple suggestions like cleaning up spills immediately makes day-to-day cleaning easier and takes away the need for deeper cleaning at a later date.  By having your tile and / or grout sealed at installation and then reapplying a sealer every few years, you insure a stain resistant surface that helps you keep your tile looking great indefinitely.        

The staff at Southeastern Tile Connection heartily recommends the ZERO – Ultimate Stone Care Series products from Superior Stone Products. Other companies use silicone and mass-produced fluoropolymers that are intended for use in other industries. Superior Stone Products is a true chemical company that formulates its products to specifically care for natural & engineered stone, quartz surfaces, cultured marble, cement surfaces, tile and grout.