thisplace.com.au - Brick and Tile Floor Care

Brick & Tile Floors - Sealer Treatment Place folded towels next to carpet areas adjoining tiled areas to absorb water. Using a scrub brush or large sponge and detergent, scrub the floor surface and rinse with clear water. Be sure any dirty wash water is completely removed from crevices. Allow floor to dry thoroughly. From a reliable hardware or paint store get a brick masonry sealer; sold in gallons only. It is a clear solution so it does not change the color of the tile or bricks and grout, but it will give a gloss to the surface. Paint the sealer on the dry tile or brick, being sure to cover all crevices and cracks in bricks and grout. Let it dry and apply a second coat. Thereafter, apply one coat about every year to maintain the seal. The sealer prevents dust from grout being tracked into the house, and makes cleaning very easy with a damp mop. Some people prefer to use a wax over the sealer. Experiment with a sample tile or an inconspicuous corner as some waxes leave a streaky undesirable finish.

Brick - Traits and Cleaning Bricks are made from clay and other materials which are formed into shapes then fired in a kiln to make them strong and durable. Red bricks contain large amounts of iron; yellow bricks contain little iron. Interior bricks may be dusted with vacuum cleaner dusting attachments. Freshen periodically with commercial brick cleaner. Make brick or stone fireplaces easier to clean by applying a finish of penetrating sealer which contains tung oil. This is moisture resistant and forms a tough coating which can be washed with soap and water.

Source: Michigan State University