Proper maintenance is the key to a trouble-free ceramic-tile floor.

You should damp-mop your floor at least once a week (more often in heavy-traffic areas), with a mixture of 1/4 cup white vinegar to two gallons of clean tap water. Never use a detergent cleaner or soap, because it can dull the surface or promote the growth of mildew. Caution: Allow new ceramic tile and grout to dry for for 72 hours (three days) after your installation is completed before damp mopping. A slight film may appear on top of your new tile from the grout. This can be removed by rubbing with a dry towel or damp-mopping after the three-day drying period.

Protective Mats

Good-quality entry- and exit mats will help protect your ceramic from premature wear. Mats are also suggested at heavy pivot locations, such as in front of the kitchen sink or stove.

Chair and Table Protection

Any metal, wood, or plastic that will be resting, sliding, or rolling on top of your new tile should have an appropriate protective pad such as felt affixed to it. Pay specific attention to the chairs that are used most often, check all casters to ensure they are in good shape, and that no metal will be toughing the tile. Exterior metal that touches or rests on the tile may rust or corrode and cause staining to your new floor.

Regular Care of Stone Flooring

When it comes to stone flooring cleaning, there are some basic things to remember.

• The first course of action is the dust mop. A dry mop that removes debris gently is needed. This is necessary because dirt, for example, left on the stone flooring can be abrasive to the flooring material and therefore damage it. To help in this type of prevention, use a carpet near the entrance to help trap these particles before they even get into the room.
• When cleaning stone flooring, excess water should not be used. Take a mop and wring it out, then wipe the floor. You should not use any chemicals on stone floors, especially those with acid in them. Once the floor is cleaned, those who have a marble surface should take a dry towel to immediately dry the flooring. Most other types of flooring do not require this attention.
• Removing stains from grout will be necessary sometimes.
• Regular polishing may be necessary for high traffic areas. Have a professional come in to do the work to ensure that the stone flooring is not damaged.
• Lastly, stone flooring care will require that you reapply sealers to the flooring annually. Marble should be more frequent, like every nine months.

Taking care of your stone flooring will keep it looking beautiful. Your home is your castle. And as with European castles that often have stone floors, taking care of them will let them last a long time.