Backsplash Tiles
If you have put thought into redecorating your kitchen or bathroom, it's likely you've put thought into the idea of maintenance. Depending on the backsplash tiles you choose, you may have to perform any number of cleaning duties. Here are a few examples of the types of materials you have to choose from and the cleaning procedures for each one.
Limestone backsplash tiles are a popular choice among many. Their natural stormy gray hue creates a dramatic, yet organic look for kitchens and bathrooms alike. Limestone is also beneficial in that it conducts heat extremely well. Unfortunately, the downside to limestone is that it is also an absorbent stone that can stain easily.
This means that, along with regular cleaning with soap and water, you will need to apply an anti-staining sealer to prevent this from happening. Fortunately, the most you'll need to apply is one or two coats, and you'll only need to do this once a year or so. Since limestone can scratch sometimes, you may need to buff out any small scrapes with a soft cloth. For deeper scratches, a piece of sandpaper or a sponge may do. Other stone backsplash tiles that may need this treatment include granite, marble, and others.
Soapstone is a beautiful material that is prized for its soft, silky texture and lovely hue. In addition to its aesthetic qualities, it is also renowned for being one of the best materials for kitchens, as it is both stain resistant, germ resistant, and heat resistant. However, its soft texture may crack over long periods of time. You can prevent this from happening by regularly applying mineral oil. However, as soapstone cannot absorb it, the only way you will affect the stone is by applying it a certain way. Begin by washing and drying the backsplash tiles thoroughly, then coating them with a layer of mineral oil. After letting it sit for a half an hour to forty minutes, rub the excess away. You will need to reapply the mineral oil several times over the next few weeks for it to work.
Porcelain is notoriously easy to take care of--the most you'll ever need is warm water and mild soap or white vinegar. However, cleaning the grout between the tiles is a whole different story. If you find your grout growing grimy, wash it first with soap and water to remove any surface debris, then try scrubbing it thoroughly with a bristle brush and a common household cleaner. Be careful not to use anything too abrasive--steel wool, for example, may tear your grout. In addition to this, using anything with bleach or ammonia is generally a bad idea, as it will harm your grout and stain your tiles.
These are only a few of the regular maintenance procedures that many homeowners use with their backsplash tiles. While it may seem like a hassle at the time, it's widely agreed that keeping your tiles looking great will lengthen their longevity considerably, allowing you to enjoy your backsplash tiles for much longer.