The Island Stone glass and natural stone tiles are the highest quality and designed with aesthetics and longevity in mind. With proper installation, care, and cleaning, they will last for years to come.
Natural stone and glass tiles are extremely durable and easy to care for. With that in mind, take a look through our recommended care instructions to get an idea of how you should be caring for your tiles.
Penetrating Sealers for Natural Stones
First things first, why do you need a sealer for your natural stone tiles? A great question, with an important answer. Natural stone is a porous material that can absorb bacteria, dirt, liquids, and all sorts of other grime that we see in our home.
A sealer will provide the protection that your natural stone needs. Sealing will prevent bacteria from growing, which can weaken your stone and increase wear and tear. Before you start sealing make sure you thoroughly clean the stone. You don’t want to seal over any grime!
- There are many companies that make quality penetrating sealers that protect against stains without changing the color of the stone. This is important to look for if it’s important to preserve the natural color.
- Another option is color-enhancing sealers that offer both penetrating protection and brighten the color of the stone.
- Sealers vary from brand to brand in the way they perform. It is up to the individual to choose the product that best achieves the finished look that is being sought.
- Make a test on left-over material before application of your chosen sealer to ensure compatibility.
- Penetrating sealers should be applied immediately after installation and the initial clean-up to ensure that no stains inadvertently become sealed in.
- Follow the sealer manufacturers recommendations for a good finish to your project.
Cleaning Natural Stone
As we mentioned, cleaning the natural stone is important to remove any bacteria and grime before you apply sealer.
- Use pH balanced cleaners or soapless detergents and soft bristle brushes for daily cleaning. Wipe all spills as soon as they happen!
- Most sealer brands have specific cleaning solutions applicable for natural stone.
- If heavy duty cleaning is required, first try to solve with pH balanced cleaners, which can include scouring cleaners and poultices that help extract the stain. Always test abrasive or untested cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area to evaluate if it is suitable for the tile.
- If an acidic cleaner is deemed necessary, a light solution of sulfamic acid is the safest and most recommended in cleaning difficult stone or grout problems. Be sure to rinse the area well after cleaning.
Glass Tile Sealing
It’s important to note that before you try to use your natural stone sealer on your glass tiles, glass tile is impervious to liquids and sealers.
- Sanded grout used in a glass tile project should have a penetrating sealer applied even though it will have no effect on the glass tile itself. Urethane or epoxy grouts do not require sealers.
- Only a water based sealer should be used, as this will allow a quick clean-up on the glass tile surface after application. Use of proper tools for application to the grout lines of the penetrating sealer is recommended.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with water will clean most glass tile areas because of the nonporous nature of the product.
- For more stubborn cleanups, commercially available ceramic tile cleaners may be applicable.
Cleaning Glass Tile
There’s not too much that goes into cleaning your glass tile! As long as you avoid any abrasive scrubbing utensils, you should be in the clear!
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with water to clean most glass tile areas. The nonporous nature of glass makes it impervious to stains.
- Be careful not to use and overly abrasive cleaning utensil.
- For more stubborn cleanups, commercially available ceramic tile cleaners may be applicable.
In general, you should think about resealing once a year. Follow the steps provided and you should be golden! A quick clean and you’re ready to protect your natural stone and glass tiles.