When it comes to a really deep tile clean, wire brushes are often a go-to. In fact – and rather surprising – their use is sometimes recommended on tile forums, yet it’s definitely not the right approach for removing stubborn stains. A wire brush will scratch a natural stone tile and damage a cementitious grout joint, as well as any protective sealer applied. Despite being super robust, a wire implement will also dull a porcelain tile. In addition to the scratches caused, there’s also the added risk that they’ll leave rust marks. This happens because particles of iron get caught in the scratches and, when they get wet, turn orange and stain.
In order to repair a scratched natural stone surface, you’ll need to gently etch the tile with a professional treatment, clean the surface to remove residue, and then apply new protection. This three-stage procedure will also work for scuffs and scratches caused by dragging furniture or white goods across the surface.
Three-step renovation
During Phase I, apply LTP Cement, Grout & Salt Residue Remover. This treatment features an acid-replacement solution, so it removes residue and mildly etches the stone, without causing damage. Dilute the solution 1:1 with cool water and carefully apply it to each tile, without overlapping from one tile to another. Then, agitate the tiles immediately using a black emulsifying pad. Care should be taken not to step on floor tiles during this phase. Tiles should then be rinsed immediately with cold water and a sponge, twice, using clean water each time. The surface should then be left to dry.
For Phase 2, we recommend LTP Grimex Intensive Cleaner, which is diluted 1:3 with cool water, applied across the surface and left to act for 15 minutes. This neutralises the surface. After applying, scrub the tiles and grout joint using a white emulsifying pad and then extract residues with a sponge or floor cleaner. Then, rinse the surface with clean water a second time, remove any remaining residue and leave the tiles to dry.
During Phase 3, a colour enhancing sealer is applied to restore the natural colour depth of the tiles. We recommend LTP Colour Intensifier & Stainblock. Apply it evenly with an applicator and allow the surface to dry naturally. After 45 minutes, buff the tiles with a microfibre cloth. The surface should then be left to dry for a minimum of 12 hours before being walked on and should not come into contact with water for a further three days. Underfloor heating should not be switched on throughout this process.
Ongoing maintenance
Going forward, stone tiles should always be cleaned with a gentle pH-neutral detergent. We recommend our LTP Waxwash for floors and LTP Stonewash for wall tiles. For porcelain tiles, we recommend LTP Porcelain Floor Tile Cleaner. Both will thoroughly clean while protecting the newly-applied sealer.
A regular routine cleaning regime will make ongoing maintenance easier and will retain the tile’s aesthetic. Most surfaces will benefit from a wet clean around once a week.
For more advice, please visit https://www.ltp-online.co.uk, call the LTP technical team on 01823 666213 or email [email protected]
