Tile cleaning – The effect of pets

Tile floors come in many forms such as slate and other natural stones as well as a wide range of fabricated tiles which come in a variety of finishes.  Many people choose tiles due to the wide range of designs, shapes and colours available – but many choose this type of floor due to the comparative ease in keeping the floor clean, it is relatively low maintenance compared to other types of floors.  This can be particularly the case when the floor in question is located in an area where spillages are likely, such as kitchens or wash rooms – and also when the location has a pet.

One of the problems with the maintenance of tiled floors is dealing with spillages and keeping the floor looking good subsequently.  Although tiled floors are relatively low maintenance, without due care a floor can quickly become dulled and acquire an uneven or unsatisfactory appearance, usually as a result of some sort of staining from spillages.  Spilled drinks are a common occurrence, but are usually wiped up and cleaned immediately, which is not the case with pets.  

Animals such as cats and dogs can, over time, be trained to go where they need to go – but it is often the case that young puppies and kittens, and older animals often relieve themselves where and when they need to.  Even if your pet is house trained, accidents can still occur and the major problem here is when urine or a pet’s spilled drink stays on the floor for many hours.  Pets will not advise when something occurs and with people spending the day at work, or sleeping at night an ‘accident’ can affect the floor for several hours before it is cleaned up.  The longer the stain is on the floor, the higher the probability that the tile surface, or the grout, will be stained or acquire a nasty odor.

There are several ways to deal with this but the main thing that can be done to prevent staining or a build-up of bacteria is the application of a good sealant.  Sealants act as an extra layer of protection and still the filtration of liquids into porous materials such as tile grout.  You would be advised to apply a special grout sealer, clear or colour, and then apply a separate sealer for the surface of the tiles which will aid cleaning efforts.  If you need any advice as to the type of sealer to choose you would be advised to consult a tile cleaning specialist who will be able to recommend one for you.

If, despite the application of a sealant, the floor acquires an unsatisfactory, uneven or dull appearance, it is probable that the sealer has either worn off, been scratched or that your general maintenance has not been sufficient.  If either case, a tile cleaning company will be able to take advantage of modern techniques and technology to restore your floor to its original condition.