CONCRETE & STONEWORK
THE PORCELAIN TILE TRUTH – EASY CARE BUT NOT‘ SELF-CLEANING’
Last year saw a significant shift in external porcelain, with engineered slabs dominating market growth – and deservedly so. They’ re exceptionally durable but whilst they’ re low maintenance, they aren’ t‘ self-cleaning’. Dirt, organic matter and algae will still accumulate on the surface of the tile- particularly in damp and shady spots. To maintain appearance and performance, a regular maintenance regime is important.
Cleaning porcelain pavers It’ s worth cleaning porcelain paving every couple of months during the spring / summer and twice during the autumn / winter. Surfaces that are regularly cleaned will be easier to keep clean. Jet washing may seem like the best method but it will only wash dirt off the surface, leaving residue lodged in the tile’ s texture. This will, in turn, attract more dirt and residue. The only way of reaching this is to use an alkalinecleaner, like ECOPROTEC Intensive Cleaner, and to allow sufficient contact time to break down the accumulated matter.
If the build-up comprises slippery green slime and organic residue, ECOPROTEC Black Spot & Algae Remover will provide the most
thorough clean and will help prevent regrowth; the contact time for this type of treatment will generally be longer in order to target the algae’ s hyphae or filaments which will be anchored into place. Acidic solutions should, however, be avoided. Whilst porcelain is acid-resistant, cementitious grout joints are not. Other stains, like cement, grout, efflorescence, wax, polymer, epoxy and rust are best tackled with a specialist ECOPROTEC stain remover.
Recommendations for new installations Porcelain pavers don’ t need to be sealed but their textured finish can create a challenge during installation. Grout and brush-in joining compounds tend to get stuck in the tile’ s high / low surfaces, along with general dirt and residue. This creates a white film on the surface of the tile and this loss of texture can compromise slip resistance.
Applying ECOPROTEC Pre Grout Protection before grouting will help protect the surface of the tile from cement and resin staining during installation. It will also extend the working time of the grout or jointing compound and the treatment will leave invisible active ingredients behind that provide protection and make the removal of any residue much easier. A further coat after installation will also make ongoing cleaning easier. Further resistance to foot traffic, wear and stains can also be added with the application of a ECOPROTEC Porcelain Paving Enhancer – a PFAS-free, water-based treatment which creates a‘ just washed look’ without compromising slip-resistance.
For more advice, browse ECOPROTEC TV on YouTube, visit www. ecoprotec. co. uk and contact ECOPROTEC on 01823 662722 and technical @ ecoprotec. co. uk
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