Tile and grout flooring is a popular choice in commercial spaces because tile is durable, versatile, and attractive. But maintaining them isn’t as simple as a quick mop. In fact, many property and facility managers unknowingly make mistakes that shorten the lifespan of tile surfaces, cause premature wear, or lead to expensive repairs.
Here are five common mistakes in commercial tile and grout cleaning, and how you can avoid them.
1. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
The mistake: Many janitorial teams rely on general-purpose cleaners, bleach, or even harsh acids to clean grout. These chemicals may make the floor look clean at first, but they can strip sealants, damage grout, or leave residues that actually attract more dirt.
How to avoid it: Make sure your team uses products specifically designed for commercial tile and grout. Neutral-pH cleaners are best for routine maintenance, while specialized solutions should be used for deep cleaning. Partnering with a surface care professional ensures the right chemistry is used for both daily upkeep and restorative services.
2. Overlooking Proper Sealing of Grout
The mistake: Unsealed or poorly sealed grout is highly porous, meaning it easily absorbs dirt, spills, and bacteria. This not only creates unsightly staining but also leads to long-term deterioration.
How to avoid it: Schedule routine grout sealing with a high-quality commercial sealer. The right protective treatment creates a barrier that resists moisture and staining, making your floors easier to clean and more hygienic. Facility managers should build sealing into their maintenance budgets just like they would carpet cleaning or floor refinishing.
3. Relying Only on Mopping
The mistake: Standard mopping removes surface-level soil but does little to clean embedded dirt in grout lines. In fact, mopping can actually push dirty water into the porous grout, worsening discoloration over time.
How to avoid it: Supplement mopping with periodic professional deep cleaning using high-powered extraction methods. These systems remove soils that mops leave behind, restoring grout lines and extending the life of your tile.
4. Inconsistent Maintenance Schedules
The mistake: Waiting until floors look dirty before scheduling cleaning leads to buildup that’s difficult to reverse. This reactive approach also creates a less-than-professional appearance in your facility and can negatively impact tenant or visitor impressions.
How to avoid it: Establish a proactive maintenance schedule. Regular daily cleaning, combined with quarterly or semi-annual professional deep cleanings, helps preserve appearance, hygiene, and durability. Your surface care partner can help tailor a plan based on foot traffic and facility use.
5. Ignoring Slip-and-Fall Risks
The mistake: Overusing harsh chemicals, failing to rinse properly, or leaving floors damp can create slippery surfaces, creating a higher risk for somebody to slip and fall. In a commercial environment, that’s not just a cleaning mistake, it’s a liability risk.
How to avoid it: Choose cleaning methods that are safe for both tile integrity and occupant safety. Use products that don’t leave sticky residues, ensure proper rinsing, and invest in professional cleaning systems that minimize water use and speed up drying times.
Tips for Facility Managers
Tile and grout can either enhance the appearance of your building or become an eyesore if not maintained properly. Avoiding these common mistakes will save money in the long run, extend the life of your floors, and create a safer, cleaner environment for tenants and visitors. For high-traffic commercial spaces, partnering with a professional surface care company is the most effective way to ensure your tile and grout stay in peak condition.
Ready to restore and protect your facility’s tile and grout? Request a free quote from DPM Surface Care today and let our team help you create a customized maintenance plan that fits your facility’s needs and budget.
