Even modern porcelain tiles cannot compete with cement tiles’ limitless pattern and color possibilities, which are still popular. Cement tiles are a highly resilient material that, with proper maintenance, can survive for generations. They can be used on both floors and walls.
Despite the long lifespan that has been demonstrated, cement tiles need frequent cleaning and periodic tile-specific maintenance to stay durable and attractive.
You can keep your cement tiles’ original appearance and structure for a very long time without them fading, scratching, or cracking if you use our easy guide on cleaning and preserving cement tiles.
Accidents happen, and the tiles may still be soiled even after sealing. As soon as possible, stains should be treated. Take the time to identify the stain before cleaning the cement tiles.
Table of Contents
Basic Care Is Essential For Cement Tiles
Cement tiles require simple maintenance, but it is not difficult to do so. To begin with, it would be ideal to wipe your cement tiles regularly with clean water and a neutral cleaner.
Avoid allowing any liquid to sit on cement tile surfaces to maintain their finest appearance. To avoid stains and long-term damage, wipe up spills immediately and properly dry the cement tiles with a clean cloth.
Because cement, like marble and other natural stone, is a porous substance that readily absorbs liquids, even water allowed to collect can discolor the tile over time.
Installing mats close to entrances to stop the damage caused by heavy footwear and usage is one easy technique to maintain cement tiles.
You might need to refinish cement tiles more frequently to maintain their brilliance in high-traffic areas or outdoors. Cement tiles can be refinished similarly to natural stone by removing a thin top coating to reveal a new layer of color underneath with a fine-grit wet-dry sandpaper.
Ways To Clean Cement Tile
The maintenance of cement tiles is simple. You can clean the cement tile with natural stone-safe products once properly sealed. Test new items in an unnoticed area first, and always adhere to the manufacturer’s usage and dilution recommendations.
It is recommended only to use non-acidic cleaning supplies. The tiles will become etched by acid, which will cause surface pitting and discoloration. Use of vinegar or vinegar-containing products is not recommended.
Don’t Use Abrasive Chemicals
Because cement tiles are porous, they require similar cleaning to the actual stone. Therefore, you are not permitted to use bleach-containing products or cleaners that are acidic or abrasive. Use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner, such as one made for terrazzo and natural stone floors.
Always follow the instructions on any cleaning product. To be sure there are no problems, we advise you to perform a test clean on a newly laid tile or a less prominent location.
Reseal your Cement Tiles
We advise re-sealing your cement tiles more frequently to keep them in good condition if you must use them in high-traffic areas or outdoors. A top-coat sealer will give the cement tiles in kitchens and hallways a little gloss and substantially facilitate maintenance and cleaning.
We advise topping down your wash bucket once a month to assist remove any extra dirt build-up that the sealant wasn’t able to remove.
Go For Yearly Maintenance
A top-notch tile cleaner should be used to clean the tiles once a year. Using this product and a water solution, thoroughly clean the floor twice. If any stains or filth on the tiles, scrape them gently.
Apply a penetrating sealant to the tiles to protect them after fully drying. Small amounts of the sealer can be poured directly onto the tiles to be sealed. Spread it around the surface and rub it in with a clean cloth.
Choose Different Cleaning Methods For Different Stains
If spills are not cleaned up promptly and correctly, cement tiles that have been sealed can also discolor. When allowed to sit on the tile surface and collect, beverages like wine and water can leave stains.
Since they can wear away at the sealer and harm the tile surface, avoid using acids to remove stains, such as bleach and citrus-scented soaps. Use oxalic acid as a last resort for inorganic stains on cement tiles. This acidic compound selectively attaches to metal ions and can get rid of stubborn rust stains.
Use oxalic acid alone, powder form, or in a solution with water. Apply the acid in circular motions over the stain after wetting the discolored area. Rinse to get rid of any acid or residual material. Relying sealant on tiles that have been cleansed with oxalic acid could be necessary.
Bottom Line
Light stains or water spots will disappear with time and a regular care schedule. The tiles will naturally tarnish, which adds to their classic appeal. The tile’s personality and individuality are a result of its polish. Remember that the majority of cement tiles require frequent resealing.
The tiles might need to be resealed, depending on the type of sealer used and the level of wear. There will be a recommended period for resealing depending on the individual brand of sealer employed, which is normally between 4 and 10 years. Additional cleaning and sealing may be needed if there is a lot of foot traffic.
