Having dirty tiles is not only unpleasant to look at, but it also comes with several health risks and unnecessary costs. It also compromises your safety and that of your loved ones and even pets. In addition to this, it reduces the longevity of the tile, attracting high maintenance costs. Cleaning tiles is simple since most of them come with a glazing cover that prevents water from getting inside. Cleaning it the wrong way can cost you so much since you may end up destroying the grouts, which in turn allow water to get below the tile. This creates a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. To avoid this, you need to clean your tiles properly and on a regular basis. This article looks at the benefits of doing this.
- Cost Effectiveness
Not cleaning your tile regularly means that its glazing layer is covered with dirt. If the dirt stays on the glazing for a prolonged period, the layer may wear off, exposing your tile to destruction by water, dirt and the rough bottoms of your shoes. The water that seeps in the grouts provides a safe haven for mold and mildew to grow. The mold will eat up the tile and destroy it in a matter of time. Regular cleaning means that you get to check for possible destruction of grout and have the repairs done before it is too late. Failure to clean the tiles regularly will cause you to miss such important points. You will thus be left with no choice but to replace the tiles, instead of repairs, which is less expensive.
- Reduces Health Risks
Unclean tiles act as a breeding ground for germs, fungi and bacteria. These are known to cause several health problems such as common colds, diarrhea and vomiting. In addition, if tiles are left unclean for quite some time, it allows for the growth of mold and mildew. These two are known allergens for several allergies. Upon exposure to the allergens, the body reacts by having the airways organs produce unusually more mucus, making breathing difficult. The other possible allergen likely to be caused by lack of regular cleaning of tiles is the dust trapped in the grouts. If you or your child has a weak immune system, inhaling the dust will make you sneeze or worse have asthma attacks.
- Reduces Chances of a Fall
Dirty tiles may become very slippery if things like banana peels, water, tea or any other fluids are left on their surface. The slipperiness may result to you or your child taking a fall that could cause serious physical injuries. As a result, this will cost you so much money with hospital bills. To reverse this slipperiness, ensure you install smaller pieces of tiles to increase grout lines for enhanced traction with the feet, and of course have them cleaned regularly.
- Extends the Longevity of the Tiles
Dirt such as food spills and drinks and water affect the glazing layer that protects the inner part of the tile from destruction by bottoms of shoes. When the glazing layer is destroyed, the tile is exposed to scratch by shoes. In addition, water is able to seep in the grout. Eventually, all these will make the tile start to rot and will not serve you for long. In addition, the water and dust in the grouts provide the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew growth. These will also make the tile rot and break away. Having the tile clean prevents all these and definitely, its longevity is extended.
Aesthetic Appeal
Having your tile regularly cleaned helps maintain the glazing layer, which protects the tile from scratch and dents from bottoms of shoes. Dirt, dust and water will accelerate the tear and wear of this layer, exposing the tile to scratches and dents. Furthermore, the tiles will have irremovable stains that may even result to mold and mildew. Eventually the shining great appeal of the tile will disappear. Having them clean will help to preserve the aesthetic appeal of the tiles by protecting the glazing layer and this will leave them looking as if they are new
Cleaning your tile may sound so simple but it is a chore that should be done very carefully. You start by choosing the right tools and chemicals for this job. This is because the wrong tools and chemicals may end up damaging the grouts, allowing water to seep in. The wrong chemicals may be too hard and end up removing the glazing layer. If you feel that you do not really know how to do it, you should hire a professional cleaner.