FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How can I tell if my unglazed tile, stone or grout is adequately sealed??

A: A simple test is to put water droplets directly onto the sealed surface at various locations after the sealer has been allowed to dry. Allow the droplets to remain for 5-10 minutes, and then blot dry with an absorbent towel. If the surface has darkened, it should return to its original colour with 2-3 minutes. If it stays darkened for a longer period of time, the need for an additional application of sealer is indicated.

Q: Does all grout need to be sealed??

A: It is a good idea to seal grout with Aqua Mix Grout Sealer and Aqua Mix Grout Colourant, with the exception of 100% epoxy grout, which will not accept a sealer. Regular cement grout, even polymer-modified grout is porous and subject to staining if not properly sealed.

Q: My tile has a dull, matte finish with no shine. Does it need to be sealed??

A: Most likely not! Most of the glazed ceramics available today have matte, no-shine finishes, yet they are still glazed and will not accept a sealer. In these cases, only the grout should be considered for sealing with Aqua Mix Grout Sealer and Aqua Mix Grout Colourant.

Q: Can porcelain tile be sealed, and if so, what kind of sealer is recommended??

A: Only unglazed porcelain can be sealed, and only with a penetrating-type sealer. Based on the extremely low surface porosity of unglazed porcelain, Aqua Mix UltraSolv™ is recommended for highest performance.

Q: Does a sealer render a stone, tile, or grout stain-proof??

A: No, sealers are designed to provide stain resistance. Performance is best described in “reaction time”. Premium sealers provide longer reaction time than economical sealers. Reaction time is the time that a sealer will repel a liquid contaminant before the contaminant starts to penetrate the surface and create a sub-surface stain.

Maintenance “Do” List

• Always use “neutral pH” cleaners for routine cleaning of tile, stone and grout.

• Keep walking surfaces clean and dry to reduce possibility of “slip-fall” accidents.

• Read label direction completely before using product.

• Test products on small area to determine desired results.

• Never mix different products unless approved by manufacturer.

• Utilize alkaline (high pH) cleaners periodically for neglected areas subject to food-contaminant soiling, and on textured surfaces.

• Utilize a scrub brush periodically in place of a sponge or mop on textured surfaces that tend to hold onto dirt and other contaminants.

• Use mild acidic cleaners only when problems exist such as cured grout residue or mineral deposits. Even the safer-type acids manufactured by Aqua Mix should not be used on acid-sensitive surfaces such as polished marble.