Now that you have installed your new wall and floor tiles and your home has dazzled friends and family, how do you maintain the glamorous shine that your tiles initially had?

Keeping the home clean and tidy is an endless and thankless task for many. Theoretically, tiles are easier to keep clean and are thought to be more hygienic than carpets and other flooring options. Tiles will, however, get dirty and in order to maintain their glory it is important to treat and clean them correctly.

Glazed ceramic tiles are covered with the protective glazing that characterises this group of tiles. They are non-porous, in other words, water or other liquids are unlikely to penetrate their surface area and cause stains or discolouration. Many other tiles, however, are porous and in order for them to last a lifetime it is essential that they are sealed and cleaned correctly.

Tiles that need to be sealed are all natural or stone tiles, such as granite, marble, travertine, terracotta and slate. These tiles are porous, and if not sealed will absorb moisture and other liquids which may stain or damage the tile.

Before you seal

• Before you seal your tiles it is of paramount importance that the tiles’ surface is well prepared. This includes removing any dirt, old cement, adhesives or any other bits of debris that could become embedded during the sealing process. Any impurities on the floor surface may also cause problems during the sealing process.

• Newly laid tiles will need a settling in period of between seven to ten days and it is important that no one spills any liquids or chemicals onto the tile surface during this stage.

• Always seek professional advice before attempting to carry out any surface preparations or before sealing the tiled surface yourself. The different kinds of tiles will require different methods of preparation and sealing.

Sealing stone and cement tiles

There are several important considerations to take into account when sealing porous tile surfaces:

• Once the tiles are completely clean and dry and they have been given a period in which to settle, the sealing process can commence.

• Carefully research which sealant is best suited for your type of tile. Ask the experts and make sure that you are using the correct sealant.

• Before sealing the entire floor, first do a small portion in an area that is somewhat hidden. This will enable you to see what the surface will look like. Allow the sealant to dry, as the colour might change slightly during the drying process.

• Once you are satisfied that you have the correct sealant, you can then seal the tiles. Never use a roller or paint brush to apply the sealer, but rather a proper applicator fitted with a sheepskin sleeve.

• Never pour sealant directly onto the tiles. Use the appropriate tray and applicator. This will ensure that you will get an even spread.

• Allow the sealant enough time to dry properly before walking over the surface or moving furniture onto the tiles.

• Never apply a sealant in direct sun or on warm tiles as this could affect the bonding and sealing process.

Cleaning tiles

Regular cleaning of tiles is necessary to keep them looking good. The range of domestic tile cleaners is extensive, but before running out and grabbing the first commercial tile cleaner, first do your homework. Certain cleaners can do more harm to tiles than good, so use chemical cleaners with caution. It is often a good idea to spend a little more on proper cleaners specifically designed for your type of floor surface.

• Some cleaners that contain ammonia or acids can damage and eat away the sealant and damage the tiles.

• Sweeping tiles with a normal broom may have limited effect as dust particles will be lifted into the air and will then resettle. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to lift accumulated dirt off the surface.

• Avoid using a string type mop for cleaning, as this has more of an effect in swishing water around the tiles and shifting dirt rather than lifting the dirt away. A squeegee type of cleaner will work far better in cleaning tiles.

• Replace dirty water with clean water or else you will simply be recycling the dirt back onto the tiles.

• Some cleaners may leave a residue on the surface, so once you have cleaned the tiles with a cleaning agent; rinse the surface with clean water.

Surface sealers and penetrating sealers

Surface sealers cover the surface and protect the tile. Three to four coats may be needed. Remember that porous tiles absorb the sealant and more than one coat will be needed. Apply the sealant in a methodical criss-cross action so that the sealant absorbs into all areas.

Penetrating sealers are designed to penetrate into the surface of the tile. Thin coats should be applied one at a time until the tiles will no longer absorb the sealant.