How to clean tiles: cleaning after installation

Guide to cleaning after installation of flooring and cladding

“Post-installation” cleaning helps remove residues of joint grouts, cement and lime. This operation is mandatory after installation both for glazed and unglazed tiles. Never clean tiles that are too hot (e.g. exposed to sunlight during hot summer months) since the reaction of aggressive chemicals may become harsher. In the summer, proceed with the operation during the coolest period of the day.

Grout used: Cement grout mixed with water

When to clean: after 4/5 days and within 10 days from grouting

What to use: Acid-based detergent

  • Keranet (Mapei)
  • Cement Remover (Faberchimica)
  • Pavim (Panariagroup)
  • Deterdek (Fila)
  • Trek (Lithofin)
  • Zementschleierentferner (Mapei)
  • Hmk R63 (Hmk)
  • Solvacid (Geal)
  • Cpclean (CpSystems)
  • Cpdecon - Specific for products that are not-resistant to acids (CpSystems)

 

Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer of the detergent. Test the product on the tiles before use. This applies in particular to honed or polished products. Before cleaning the surfaces must be dampened with water. After cleaning, dry up any remaining liquid (if possible using a wet vacuum cleaner) and rinse thoroughly and several times with water. Soak up any remaining rinsing water with a wet vacuum cleaner or a cloth.

If post-installation cleaning has not been performed correctly, repeat washing after installation as described, if necessary using the same detergents but in higher concentrations.

Grout used: Epoxy grouting, Two-component and reactive

This type of product must be removed immediately and diligently since these grouts harden very rapidly, even in just a few minutes. Strictly follow the cleaning methods recommended by the grout manufacturer and check if it is effective by performing a cleaning test before grouting the entire floor/wall.

Warning: once it has hardened, grout is very difficult or even impossible to remove. Contact the grout manufacturer.

Non-slip surfaces

Due to their particular non-slip, rough or structured textures, non-slip surfaces are more difficult to clean. Therefore pay particular attention to cleaning methods, in particular clean sooner and use motorised brushes
with white and beige discs.

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