Cleaning, maintenance and protection of ceramic tiles

Advice for the laying and maintenance of ceramic tiles

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The carefulness and the way in which the floor is first cleaned after being laid will affect the tiles’ cleanability throughout the rest of their lifespan. Ceramic tiles are coated with what is commonly known as enamel - in fact it is nothing but a glassy layer - to be handled with care when it comes to maintenance.

1. First cleaning of ceramic flooring

For the first cleaning of ceramic flooring, we suggest that you:
- remove concrete residue left from laying/plastering with special products such as acid based detergents. Use electric brushes, sponges or any other tool capable of completing proper non-abrasive mechanical cleaning.
- rinse with water and stop only when the water used has been cleared. Improper rinsing may cause the formation of a layer of limestone that may stain or prevent full cleaning over time.
If the initial cleaning has not been performed accurately and meticulously, the floor may have rings, stains, darkened areas, etc. In this case, we would advise you to clean it again, using the acidic cleaner, and then rinsing several times with clean water. It should also be emphasised that daily cleaning - and not just the first cleaning after laying - may cause the formation of stains or rings, especially on soft and smooth surfaces. After all, we are dealing with a glassy material, and we must treat it as such.

AVOID:
The use of anti-rust or spray stain removers, as they often contain hydrogen fluoride, capable of causing irreparable damage to any type of floor.

Cleaning tips for porcelain stoneware

First cleaning

2. Normal cleaning of ceramic flooring

For normal cleaning of ceramic flooring, we suggest that you:
- remove dust with a dry cloth, and then wash the surface with a damp cloth, soaked with a mild detergent.
- remember that too much detergent, as well as the use of dirty water or polishing products, can form an invisible, dirt-sensitive layer over time.
AVOID:
The use of anti-rust or spray stain removers, as they often contain hydrogen fluoride, capable of causing irreparable damage to any type of floor.

Cleaning tips for porcelain stoneware

Ordinary maintenance

Extraordinary cleaning

3. Treatment of joints

In order to protect joints, we suggest a waterproofing treatment using a protective coating, designed to prevent the stain absorption. This waterproofing also makes it easier to remove dirt from the joints, keeping them looking like new for years. Apply the protector using a nozzle lined up with the joints, then spread it with a brush, creating an invisible film that is resistant to dirt. The surface can be used after a few hours.