Boston, MA
Updated Thursday, March 11, 2010 3:54 AM
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Some Thoughts
There are many things to consider when planning a tile installation of any type. The most obvious would of course be the actual tile product to be used. Many installations are simple and straight forward. Others are complex with many design elements. Although the aesthetics of a tile job is of the utmost importance, it may not be the most important aspect of the project at hand. Before any tile can be installed on a wall, floor or any other surface the material that is going to receive that tile must be chosen.
There are many types of materials that can be used as underlayments for a tile project, some are better than others; some should not be used at all. The best type of underlayment to use is one that has been designed specifically for tile. I am not going to mention any here but all underlayments are not created equal, yet this choice is going to determine how well a tile installation is going to perform and how long it will last. Another aspect of this choice is of course how it is installed. I have seen people time and again buy a high quality undelayment and then compromise that quality by not following the correct installation procedures. Not all situation call for the same type of surface preparation, and some times a surface that might not be appropriate in one circumstance can be ideal in another; each situation must be evaluated separately.
Preparation is key to any project, whether it be a tile project or not. A small problem at the initial stage of an installation can become a major headache later on. Size and complexity of a tile job will be a determining factor on the amount of preparation that will be required, a small and simple tile job will almost always be easy to prepare for and execute. A large or complex installation is going to require much fore thought and planning for things to go smoothly. The proper underlayment and preparation are paramount to a well executed tile installation that will last many years to come.
There are many other elements to consider when planning a tile installation, but none are as important as those motioned above, except maybe the setting materials and adhesives that should be used.
General cleaning recommendations for ceramic tile.
Sweep or vacuum floor then uses a clean damp sponge to remove surface dust or dirt.
You should wipe or mop tiles frequently with a floor cleaner, such as “Armstrong Cleaner”, “Spic & Span”, etc... Do not Use steel-wool pads, abrasive and all- purpose cleaners, wax or apply polish to glazed ceramic tiles
Take care of your grout by cleaning spills immediately and sealing grout with a grout sealer.
Tips on how to treat stains,
For mildew, use a mildew remover such as X-14, Tile-X, or bleach.
For soap scum, water deposits etc. use a floor cleaner and a plastic mesh scouring pad.
For coffee, tea, food, fruit juice, etc. use a non abrasive, clear, household cleaner and hot water. Follow directions on label.
For finger nail polish, dissolve with polish remover, if stain remains, use non abrasive liquid household cleaner.
For grease and fat, cover area with salt or baking soda and water; let stand overnight, remove and scrub.
For gum wax and tar, first chill area with ice. Scrape away excess material with a plastic or wood scraper. Remove residue with nonflammable paint stripper.