Terracotta tiles can add a warm and rustic charm to any space, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a timeless and elegant look. However, terracotta tiles require special care and maintenance to retain their beauty over time.
If you’ve noticed white marks or stains appearing on your terracotta tiles after cleaning, don’t fret. In this blog, we will look deeper into what can cause these white marks and discuss effective cleaning and maintenance techniques to keep your terracotta tiles looking clean and beautiful for years to come.
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To gain expert insights into the unique challenges of cleaning terracotta tiles, we consulted Pierre, a tile cleaning specialist from Art of Clean. With extensive experience in dealing with various tile types, Pierre shed light on why terracotta tiles, in particular, can pose challenges due to their distinctive characteristics.
Terracotta tiles can be either handmade or machine-made, and understanding the differences between the two is crucial for effective cleaning and maintenance. They usually craft handmade tiles manually, resulting in slightly uneven surface and colour variations. These imperfections add character and charm to the tiles but can also make cleaning more challenging. On the other hand, machine-made tiles are more uniform and precisely cut, offering a cleaner appearance and ease of maintenance.
Pierre explained that white marks on terracotta tiles can occur for a few reasons. One common cause is the presence of an old sealer that someone didn’t properly remove during cleaning. This residual sealer can lead to uneven finishes and stubborn white marks on the tiles. To achieve an even, clean finish… it’s crucial to strip any existing sealer completely before resealing the tiles.
1. Use the Right Cleaning Products:
To clean terracotta tiles effectively, you must use the right cleaning products. Opt for a suitable cleaner like Tile Master #3, designed to remove ingrained dirt and soil without damaging the tiles.
2. Proper Stripping and Sealing:
Before sealing the tiles, it’s essential to strip any existing sealer completely. For this purpose, Art of Clean recommends water-based or solvent-based strippers, depending on the severity of the sealer buildup. Proper stripping ensures that the tiles’ surface is clean and ready for resealing. Once you have thoroughly cleaned the tiles, consider using a colour-enhancing impregnator or a matte wax dressing to protect the tiles’ surface and enhance their appearance.
3. Embrace Imperfections:
Terracotta tiles often come with unique imperfections due to their handmade nature. These imperfections, such as slight colour variations and surface irregularities, add character and authenticity to the tiles. Embrace these quirks, as they are part of the tile’s charm and beauty.
4. Regular Maintenance:
Regularly clean the tiles with mild cleaning solutions and avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the sealer. Sweeping or vacuuming the tiles often can prevent dirt and debris from settling into the pores of the tiles and causing stains.
Terracotta tiles can be a beautiful addition to any home, providing a classic and timeless look that never goes out of style. However, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure that these tiles maintain their natural beauty and durability over time. By understanding the causes of white marks on terracotta tiles and following expert tips for cleaning and maintenance, you can enjoy your tiles’ elegance for years to come. Remember to embrace the unique imperfections of terracotta tiles, as they add character and authenticity to your space, making it truly one of a kind. With the right techniques and cleaning products, you can keep your terracotta tiles looking clean, vibrant, and inviting for a lifetime.
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Written by Tracey Gilbey, Marketing and Admin Coordinator at Art of Clean.
For further advice or information on our Carpet and Soft Furnishing care, please do not hesitate to contact the Art of Clean team on 01223 901551 in Cambridge. Our services include Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, oriental and area Rug Cleaning, Curtain Cleaning, Patio, and Driveway Pressure washing, Leather Cleaning, Stone and Tile Floor Cleaning, and Wood Floor Sanding and Restoration. We also supply new flooring and carpets through our sister company Art of Flooring. Our Dry-Cleaning service is provided by Farthings Cambridge
