FloorTalk – for all the latest flooring fashions

Imagine a 10 Commandments of Tile Flooring Cleaning have come down from on high. Here’s what they might say:

I. Thou shalt always ask for manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations when you buy tiles. And get it in writing.
II. When purchasing tile, thou shalt buy it from an outlet that fully understands maintenance requirements. Here’s how to spot such a store: Look for a retailer that makes cleaning products an important part of their store and sale. Chances are, they will be knowledgeable about maintenance products.
III. Thou shalt always know the type of flooring you have. Is it ceramic tile or porcelain tile? Ceramic and most porcelain are nonporous, which will not readily absorb moisture and dirt. However, some lighter colors of porcelain are porous, and must be sealed to stop absorption.
IV. Thou shalt seal porous porcelain tile. Also seal all grout after installation.
V. Thou shalt clean all tile floors regularly and reseal grout every 1-2 years.
VI. Thou shalt not clean tile floors with vinegar, which is acidic and may etch the surface.
VII. Thou shalt use a mild household cleaner, such as dishwash liquid, for regular mopping.
VIII. After mopping with a cleaner, thou shalt always do a thorough final rinse with clean water to remove residue of dirt, grime or cleaning agents.
IX. For times when a deeper cleaning is needed, thou shalt use an alkaline cleaner made for tile. Check your manufacturer’s information to see if there are brand recommendations or other guidance.
X. Thou shalt enjoy the beauty of your floors!

For more information on flooring visit the World Floor Covering Association’s Consumer Carpet & Flooring Guide.

By Steve Cooper

The cherry wood flooring in your living and dining room looks fabulous. Problem is, the floor in the kitchen is looking a little sad. What to do?

More wood is one answer. But there’s an asterisk on this one. Do you want to expose your wood floor to spilled milk, water leakage from problem plumbing, and the sand, grime and other offenders so frequently tracked in from outside? And what about bathrooms and your front and back entries? Even woods toughened with hard finishes are vulnerable to everyday assaults at these spots.

Fake it. Pick a wood-look material that has a track record of durability in high-traffic and wet areas. Consider the options:

• Vinyl. With the sophisticated technologies of today, the graining patterns in wood-look vinyl are strikingly real. There is great variety in species and finish colors, and seamless sheet goods put up a strong defense against moisture. Kitchens and bathrooms are safe with this flooring. Go with a fiberglass-backed vinyl and you may even be able to put the floor down as a DIY project.

• Tile. Step up in style and durability with tile. Porcelain and ceramic tiles that mimic plank wood, parquet, and other looks are available. For a front entry, rich, woody tiles create a luxurious feeling while handling water, snow, and most other things tracked in during inclement weather.

• Laminate. Get the color and finish you want in a wood look, and also handle installation yourself. This material is good for the kitchen and entries. If installing in a bathroom, make sure the flooring is specified for wet areas. Stick with major brands, which offer consistent quality and better warranties than most off-brand imports.

For more information on flooring visit the World Floor Covering Association’s Consumer Carpet & Flooring Guide.