Justin Akerstrom discusses why post installation aftercare is just as important as fixing
WHEN a tiling project is completed, the focus often shifts immediately to enjoying the finished space. However, the longevity, appearance and performance of any tiling installation depends just as much on post installation aftercare as on the fixing products and methods used. Without proper maintenance, even the highest quality tiles and grouts can degrade prematurely.
Fixers and contractors should understand that post-installation advice to customers is critically important to ensure the longevity of installations.
One error post-installation is the use of steam-cleaners. While steam-cleaners are often marketed as quick and chemical free, they can introduce issues for cement based grouts – with the heat and high pressure causing erosion, discolouration or even cracking over time.
Homeowners, cleaners or maintenance staff can also make the mistake of using harsh high-PH cleaners. Many off the shelf bleaches, limescale removers, and strong alkaline cleaners contain chemicals that can slowly break down grout.
High pH solutions may cause the binder in cement based grouts to soften or deteriorate, leading to cracks, brittleness and failure.
Choosing the correct maintenance products should be based on several factors: tile type, grout type and the presence of sensitive finishes such as chrome or metal trims.
Reputable manufacturers such as Lithofin provide cleaners tailored to specific materials ensuring that surfaces are protected while remaining clean and hygienic.
For swimming pools and leisure facilities, water chemistry plays a crucial role in tile longevity. Incorrect pH levels, shock treatments or aggressive disinfectants can damage grout and adhesives beneath submerged tiles. Proper pool maintenance is therefore essential to protect the full tiling system.
Good aftercare begins with good product selection. Epoxy grouts, for example, provide exceptional chemical resistance and stain protection, while admixtures can improve flexibility and durability of cementitious grouts. Choosing the right grout type for the environment reduces maintenance problems later.
Protecting the tiles during the grouting process is also crucial to a successful and long lasting tiling installation. Products like BAL Protective Sealer offer temporary protection during the grouting stage. They prevent pigment staining and make post installation cleanup easier, helping keep tiles looking their best from day one.
Fixers and contractors must also manage clients’ expectations. Most home owners for example, believe that all grouts are waterproof and therefore also select grouts based on its ability to ‘protect’ the substrates.
Cementitious grouts aren’t waterproof, only water resistant. Substrate degradation is a leading contributor to mould and odour and therefore would increase the maintenance of the tiles and grouts as a result. Substrate protection and preparation, also have a significant impact on maintenance and the long life success of the installation.
