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Version: 2026.08.01

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is one of the most durable and easy-to-maintain surfaces in your home. Found on floors, walls, and countertops, tile provides lasting beauty with minimal care. Understanding grout maintenance is key to preserving tile installations.

Grout Maintenance

Grout is decorative - it doesn't hold tile in place. Minor grout cracks are normal and maintaining good seals prevents water damage to underlying surfaces.

How It Works​

Ceramic tile installations consist of:

  • Tiles - The glazed or unglazed ceramic pieces
  • Thinset mortar - Adhesive that bonds tiles to the substrate
  • Grout - Fills the joints between tiles
  • Caulk - Used at corners and where tile meets other materials
  • Substrate - The surface beneath (cement board, concrete, etc.)

Your Design Studio selection sheets include the brand and color of your ceramic tile.

Routine Maintenance​

TaskFrequencyTime Required
Wipe down wall/counter tileWeekly10 minutes
Vacuum tile floorsAs needed15 minutes
Wet mop tile floorsOccasionally20 minutes
Clean groutAs needed30 minutes
Inspect grout for cracksSeasonally10 minutes
Re-seal grout (if sealed)Per manufacturer1 to 2 hours

Cleaning Ceramic Tile​

Wall and countertop tile:

  • Wash with any nonabrasive soap, detergent, or tile cleaner
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners - they dull the finish
  • Rinse thoroughly to prevent residue buildup

Floor tile:

  • Vacuum when needed to remove loose dirt and grit
  • Occasionally wet mop with warm water
  • Avoid adding detergent to water (leaves film)
  • If cleaner needed, use mild solution of warm water and dishwasher crystals (won't leave heavy lather on grout)
  • Rinse thoroughly

Grout Maintenance​

Cleaning discolored grout:

  • Use fiber brush, cleanser, and water
  • Grout cleansers and whiteners available at home improvement stores
  • Work in small sections

Sealing grout:

  • Sealing is your decision and responsibility
  • Once sealed, requires periodic re-sealing
  • Follow manufacturer recommendations for your specific sealer

Repairing Grout Cracks​

Expect slight separations in grout between tiles. To repair:

  1. Purchase premixed grout from flooring, home improvement, or hardware store
  2. Clean out loose material from crack
  3. Apply grout per container directions
  4. Wipe excess with damp sponge
  5. Allow to cure as directed

Important: Maintaining good seals prevents water damage to underlying surfaces.

Troubleshooting​

Common Tile Issues​

ProblemCauseSolution
Grout crackNormal shrinkage/movementFill with premixed grout
Grout discolorationDirt, mildewClean with grout cleaner
Tile appearing to pull awayGrout/caulk shrinkageRe-caulk or re-grout
Loose tileAdhesive failureProfessional repair needed
Cracked tileImpact or settlementMay need replacement
Dull finishAbrasive cleanersUse only nonabrasive cleaners

Tile Appearing to Pull Away​

Tile around bathtubs or countertops may appear to pull up over time. Causes:

  • Normal shrinkage of grout or caulk
  • Shrinkage of interior wood members as they dry
  • Movement in exterior walls due to temperature variations

Solution:

  1. Purchase tub caulk or premixed grout
  2. Clean the joint thoroughly
  3. Apply new caulk or grout per directions
  4. Maintain these seals to prevent water damage

What to Avoid​

warning
  • Don't use abrasive cleaners on tile - Dulls the glazed finish permanently
  • Don't use soap on floors - Leaves film that attracts dirt
  • Don't ignore grout cracks - Water can damage substrate underneath
  • Don't use bleach on colored grout - May cause discoloration
  • Don't let standing water remain - Can seep through grout into substrate
  • Don't use harsh chemicals - May damage grout and tile finish

Protecting Tile Surfaces​

  • Use bath mats in wet areas
  • Place rugs at entries to reduce grit
  • Use furniture pads under heavy items
  • Avoid dropping heavy objects on tile
  • Clean spills promptly

Warranty Coverage: See Ceramic Tile Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.