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Maintenance and Care

Protecting New Tile Installations

To avoid damage to finished tile installations, schedule floor installations to begin only after all structural work, building enclosure, and overhead finishing work, such as ceilings, painting, mechanical and electrical work are completed. Keep all traffic off of finished tile floors until the installation has fully cured (usually 5-7 days depending on environmental conditions) or provide up to 3/4" thick plywood over Kraft paper to protect floors before installation materials have fully cured.

After your new tile installation has fully cured, it is highly recommended that a quality sealer be used to seal the grout and pourous tile and stone. First, a cleaning process must be done 24 hours prior to the desired time to apply the sealer. Usually this can be accomplished using plain water and a clean sponge to wipe the surface clean. Should a cleaning agent be necessary, it is recommended to use only a mild, acid neutral cleaner. After the cleaning process, allow 24 hours for the new tile installation to dry thoroughly. Apply the sealer according to the manufacturers dirctions and allow to dry and cure.

Your new tile installation is ready for use. Remember, only use either plain water or mild, acid neutral cleaners for the maintenance of your tile and grout. Harsh chemicals will cause damage over time.