If maintained regularly, Saltillo tiles remain intact and beautiful for decades. Below is a list of precautions and considerations to be aware of while installing your Saltillo tile flooring, and long afterwards on a daily basis as well.
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Cover your Saltillo tile flooring with a protective material like kraft paper, cardboard, plywood or etc. while applying grout. This will help you avoid cleaning problems that can later become tough on drying. |
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Apply sealer on all grouted joints. |
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Before using scouring powders on your floor, test it on a small area or a sample tile. |
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When thinking about installing Saltillo tiles in a new space, wait till all heavy construction is complete. Most of the tiles come pre-finished from the factory and heavy objects and construction material can ruin the finish. |
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Wipe away the cleaning solutions as soon as the job is done. Rinse later and mop the floor dry. |
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Do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or other harsh equipment with metal face. This may not only damage the finish/glaze or surface of the tile but can also cause damage to the grout. |
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Never use any cleaners that contain bleach, ammonia and/or acid as they may change the grout color. They can also etch and cause staining on the tile. |
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Do not use any oil-based detergents, wax cleaners, or sealants for the maintenance of your tiles. |
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Do not use any agents that contain dye/color on stone or unglazed ceramic tile. |
A note about Saltillo tile for use as an outdoor element:
Saltillo tile is made in a desert environment, for a desert environment. As such, tiles are vulnerable to freeze damage when used in other climates. Should your environment be noted for below-freezing temperatures at certain times of the year, it is best to restrict the use of Saltillo tile to an interior application.
