Maintaining ceramic tile has been something that people have agonized over for years, and will likely continue to groan over for many more to come. The thing is that as long as you know what you are doing, the cleaning and maintaining of tiled flooring can be a not so difficult task to embark on. Before diving into the nitty gritty of cleaning tile, it is helpful to know some basic terminology to go along with this project.
Similar to concrete, grout is a grainy substance which comes in either pre-mixed paste or powder form to be mixed with water, which is then inserted between tiles in neat rows to hold it in place. It protects the tile from falling and also prevents water seepage into the wall behind the tiles, stopping molding and mildew from damaging the wall.
Caulk is the rubber-like substance that works as a sealant usually around the edges of a shower, window, door or any other area which requires sealing. Both grout and caulk can come in a myriad of colors to help match the tile used in any project, though more commonly, you will see caulk and grout in varying colors of white or off-white; both are susceptible to mold, mildew, damage and dirt.
Before you begin to clean, it is a good idea to determine just what degree of cleaning will need to take place. If your tile is in an area that is exposed to moisture, humidity or water (like bathrooms, specifically), you run a more serious risk of mildew and mold, which blackens the appearance of tile, grout and caulk, and can also be rather dangerous to walls and for the people living there. Mold and mildew can also be incredibly slick and creates a trouble for traction for those trying to step on it, increasing the chances of slipping and falling. In order to prevent damaging mildew or mold to appear, remember to use quality cleaning products regularly in your cleaning routine that battle water damage and mold, specifically.
Many of the other generalized cleaners that could be used can be found around the house; vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are two prime examples. Cleaning tiles with hydrogen peroxide leaves a streak-free finish and also has the added advantage of being anti-bacterial and kills germs and battles mold. Green cleansers are also very popular for use in poorly ventilated areas, or areas which have contact with children (like bathrooms) since they do not emit any harmful gases that could make the inhabitants ill.
The Writer is a home improvement specialist.
No comments:
Post a Comment