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slgibbs1

15 years ago
Does cement tile have to be sealed regularly? I was thinking of kitchen, but I want low Maintenance
Cement Tile · More Info

Comments (5)

  • 15 years ago
    Here's a lively little primer on cement tiles, with some useful info from owners in the comments section. From what I understand, you'll need to seal it first, and then later only occasionally for high-traffic areas. People seem to find it a very easy floor to maintain. Here's more: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/old-is-new-cement-tile-makes-a-comeback-stsetivw-vs~174365
  • PRO
    15 years ago
    Hi All,
    Think of the level of care for cement tile floors about on par with hardwood floors but certainly more moisture proof.

    You wouldn't want to drag a ladder with sharp edges across a wood floor so you don't want to do that on a cement tile floor either.

    If you spill acidic food or wine, you get it up quickly just as you would on a wood floor.

    No, they are not as "industrial strength" as cheap imported beige fired ceramic tile (yawn:o) but then they are a work of art, unlike the big box mass produced tiles.

    I am updating our installation instructions today which has a new cleaning and stain removal section:
    http://www.villalagoontile.com/installing-cement-tile.html

    The main thing is to protect the tiles during installation from workmen's feet and spills just as you would a new hardwood floor. Then once the cement tile floor is properly sealed and waxed...let the party begin !

    Lundy
  • PRO
    14 years ago
    it depends on the area where you are using the tiles....cement tiles always have a higher porousity as compared to its counterparts like natural stone etc....tiles need to be sealed with a good quality penetrating sealer which should last like for almost 4-5 years...for a space like kitchen definately the floor should be sealed
  • PRO
    14 years ago
    Cement tiles are easy to care for but they should be sealed and spills need to be cleaned up quickly to avoid staining. Cement tiles are porous and should always be sealed with a penetrating sealer. This is important for kitchen wall and floor installations. The sealer should be re-applied at intervals recommended by the manufacturer (usually every 5 - 10 years). Staining can occur if spills from wine, vinegar and tomato sauce (acids) are not quickly cleaned from the surface. These acids will first destroy the sealer and then react with the tile and stain it. If you can follow these rules, cement tiles will provide unmatched beauty for years to come.
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Stains from many acidic kitchen spills can removed or lightened in light colored tile areas by using drug store hydrogen peroxide. Not difficult to do. Same principle as teeth whitening :o) As with anything...test in an inconspicuous area first.