How to Clean & Seal Tile Floors

Wait 30 days after installing tiles before sealing your new floor.

Tile flooring is one of the most durable and long-lasting finish materials available to cover floors in the home. These tiles may be made from ceramic, porcelain or natural stone products such as granite or marble. While tile will last for many years, some varieties are susceptible to staining, especially in the grout lines between the tiles. To keep your floor looking its best, regularly clean and seal it.

Things You'll Need

• Bleach
• Water
• Bucket
• Mop
• Scrub brush
• Water-based grout sealer
• Rags
• Impregnating tile sealer
• Paint roller

Instructions

1. Wait 30 days after installing a tile floor before sealing. The grout and mortar need time to cure completely before you apply the sealer.

2. Remove stains and dirt using a solution of half bleach and half water. Apply this mixture to your floors using a mop. If the grout lines are stained, try scrubbing this bleach solution into the grout with a stiff scrub brush. Allow the floor to dry before applying sealer.

3. Seal the grout lines using a water-based grout sealer. On heavily polished stone floors, the tiles themselves will not benefit from sealing. Sealing the grout will prevent stains and help maintain its color. Most grout sealers come with a special applicator, or you can use a small paintbrush to apply the sealer. Wipe away excess sealer from the surface of the tiles as you work.

4. Apply an impregnating tile sealer to honed or porous tile surfaces. This includes all non-polished tiles, including stone, Satillo, and even ceramic or porcelain. An impregnating sealer will soak into the tiles rather than just resting on the surface.

5. Pour the sealer over the floor to completely saturate the tiles and grout. Use a paint brush or roller to help spread the sealer evenly. Make sure the sealer reaches all grout lines as well as cracks or other grooves within the tiles.

6. Wipe away all excess sealer with a dust-free rag. Within 30 minutes of applying sealer, remove all excess material from the surface of the tiles as well as from all corners of the room. You may need to use several new rags to ensure all the sealer is removed. If any extra sealer is left behind, it will create a foggy effect known as "grout haze." This effect can be difficult to remedy later, so make sure to do a thorough job at this stage.

References

• John Bridge and Associates: Tile Sealers
• Home Time: Ceramic Tile
• Ceramic Tile and Stone Consultants, Inc.: Cleaning Tile