Tile Cleaning  (Q & A)

1.       What surfaces do we clean?

Porcelain, ceramic, sandstone, limestone, granite, slate, terracotta and all types of driveways.

2.       How well will my tiles come up after cleaning?

Before we start cleaning the area of tiles you have requested we will ALWAYS do a test patch. This step is VITAL. If a test patch is not done and all your tiles are cleaned and the technician doesn’t discover until finished that the colour has been stripped, tiles been scratched or grouting sucked out what can be done? Very little as the damage has already been done.

On the other hand say no damage has been done but you’re just not happy with the job. What then? This can all be prevented by simply doing a test patch. The test patch will show you how the tile has come up and also if any damage has been done. If you’re not happy with the test patch we will happily leave at no charge.

3.       How do you know if your tiles will be cleaned right?

Many mistakes can be made when cleaning tiles if the technician doesn’t know what he is doing. The average tile cost including installation is worth over $100 sqm now that is allot of money. Do you want someone cleaning your tiles who hasn’t completed a tile cleaning course?

So you can get the best possible result we have completed a “Professional hard surface cleaning and sealing certificate with Australia Institute of Tile and stone”. We also use only the highest quality chemicals and equipment. I mean doesn’t every company say that? Most do and to prove we are not making a false claim we will happily provide the phone number of our supplier and details of the products we use.

4.       How long will my tiles stay clean for?

If you clean your tiles with the products we recommend and you look after them they will stay looking fantastic for years.

To keep your tiles looking amazing for longer we highly recommend sealer. It prevents soil sticking and staining the tiles. It acts as a protector barrier over them. If you do have a spill on the tiles you still need to clean it up right away as it will penetrate through the sealant coating after 30 – 60 minutes. Some tiles cannot be sealed upon inspection we will let you know.

5.       Can I use any floor cleaner on my tiles?

Not a good idea. If you use the wrong product for cleaning your tiles it will leave a sticky residue and streaks on top of the tile. You will find that your tiles will get dirty quickly because dirt and dust particles will stick to them. They will lose that lovely colour or shine they used to have.

After cleaning your tiles we can give you a sample of the right product to use and also the supplier’s details.

6.       How often should my tiles be cleaned?

Usually from 1-3 years depending on how much traffic they receive. Areas such as your kitchen will need cleaning more regularly due the high traffic and food spills.

7 steps to clean your tiles

1.       We carry out a test patch on one tile in a small inconspicuous area. Once the test patch is complete we will inspect the tile closely for any imperfections before starting the job.

2.       All dry dust, grit, sand, dirt etc will be removed from the surface. Then any material that may cause scratching in the cleaning process like grout haze, paint, plater will be removed.

3.       The tile cleaning solution will be applied to the surface by mop to get an even coating.

4.        To get the best results we will then scrub/agitate the cleaning solution into the tile

5.       Your tiles will be high pressured steam cleaned at 110c by a $40,000 tile cleaning machine. The steam helps cut through the dirt easier removing it all from the tiles.

6.       We will then neutralise the tiled surface. This means applying a chemical to stop the cleaning solution from still working away at the tile. If this is not done the cleaning solution will continue to work away at the tile well after we have gone damaging it.

7.       To keep the tiles looking great for longer we then apply sealer. This is additional and optional. You may question the cost and I guarantee you it is definitely worth it. It will save you time and money. You won’t have to have your tiles cleaned as often and they will stay looking cleaner far longer. If it’s not in your budget you can simply choose to have it just in the most heavily trafficked area.

Cost

Tile cleaning which includes all the above

$7 sqm

Sealer

$5 sqm