Cleaning Porcelain Tile

Natural stone flooring has become a popular choice in facility entryways and lobbies, but many facilities across the country are discovering porcelain tile to be a much cheaper alternative. These tiles are less expensive than natural stone and display a realistic appearance that mirrors high-gloss stone, marble and terrazzo floors, but require less maintenance.

Porcelain's dense, low-absorptive body inhibits the penetration of contaminants and, therefore, is a tile that is easier to maintain than stone. Porcelain not only limits dirt and stains, but also prevents top sealers and most chemicals from penetrating the surface. Also, porcelain tile does not need to be sealed, but does need surface protection to impede dirt collection and improve ease of cleaning.

General maintenance and cleaning of porcelain varies depending on the surface texture and soil load. A typical daily floor-care program for porcelain tile requires dust mopping with an untreated dust mop, vacuuming, damp mopping with non-oil, non-acidic and non-soap based neutral cleaners, and if necessary, the use of an autoscrubber.