Routine Care and Cleaning
For daily cleaning, always use products that are pH neutral and specifically formulated for tile and stone. Daily cleaners such as TEC Everyday (for ceramic and porcelain) or Refresh Pro (for unglazed ceramic and natural stone) are pH balanced and contain no abrasives or acids but still have the strength to cut through grease and oil.
Some cleaners contain substances that can damage natural stone and tile surfaces. Products such as acidic solutions, ammonia, or bleach can damage surfaces, degrade sealers, and discolor grout. Abrasives can scratch the surface of your tile. Soft nylon brushes, rags, and sponges work great with tile and stone cleaners on most surfaces. You want to be sure to rinse well with water to remove any soapy residue.
Restoration
Old tile and grout that has accumulated a buildup of dirt, soap, mineral deposits or stains can be cleaned with a restorer.
Cleaners with a neutral pH are best for everyday cleaning. However, tougher stains need tougher cleaners. Organic substances (food, grease, oil, mold, mildew, and soap scum…) are easily cleaned with alkaline cleaners, while acidic cleaners are best for inorganic substances (lime, hard water spots, rust…). TEC SuperClean works great on organic substance and TEC LikeNew will clean up inorganic substances. If you have a combination of stains or build ups you can try using TEC SuperClean followed by LikeNew.
When cleaning natural stone products make sure you use a cleaner that is safe on that particular material. With all materials and cleaners you should be sure to test a small area first before cleaning the entire surface.
Natural Stone and Unglazed Ceramic Tile Sealers
Natural stone and unglazed ceramic tiles, as well as grout, are porous materials and should be protected with a sealer. Sealing your tile will prevent stains from absorbing into the material. Sealing your stone and unglazed ceramic tiles will make cleaning easier both during the installation process and during routine cleaning. Some common natural stones that should be sealed are; travertine, marble, slate, granite, limestone, and onyx.
H.Winter recommends using a penetrating sealer. TEC Guard All is an ideal sealer for all natural stone (polished and unpolished), unglazed ceramic tiles, and grout. If you wish to enhance the color