How do you clean & seal Mexican tile floors?
by
Fos10691975
+2
The home that we recently moved into has Mexican tile floors that appear to have never been sealed since the house was built 37 years ago. Is there a way of cleaning and re-sealing the tile that will not kill us? We are both in our 70's, and can't afford the tens of thousands of dollars it would cost to have it professionally done. Or, would it be possible to coat the floor with varnish or something similar after a thorough cleaning?
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When I lived in Chile, the grout between the tiles was absolutely dark from the maid mopping the floor with dirty water. The dirt would just be pushed from the tiles into the grout. So, I mixed a paste of clorox and baking soda and scrubbed on my hands and knees until it was white again. I rinsed it with clear water and the floor looked like brand new. I suggest using a steam mop to clean it after you get the grout clean and after sweeping. That way, the grout will stay clean and you won't have the problem again.
I have cleaned mine with just baking soda and water. You can find mop-on sealers at a tile store.
If you have a carpet cleaner you might try using it, the brushes can really scrub up the dirt, and suck up the dirty water. Lastly I went over mine with clean water last run.
When dry, you can then roll on the sealer with a paint roller with a long handle and sealer in the tray. Start in farthest corner, and work your way out of the room. You should cut in around cubboards with a brush first a couple inches out. Then roll. Go out for the day to ensure your not tempted to get on the floor for a drink or snack.
https://www.hunker.com/12001842/how-to-restore-saltillo-tile
https://rusticotile.com/how-to-strip-saltillo-tile-mexican-tile-restoration/