6 Most Common Outdoor Tile and Paving Cleaning Myths – The Truth Behind Effective Maintenance
When it comes to maintaining outdoor tiles and paving, there’s no shortage of advice floating around. Unfortunately, much of what you hear might be outdated, misguided, or simply wrong. In this blog post, we’re going to debunk some of the most common misconceptions about outdoor tile and paving maintenance and cleaning. We’ll also introduce TT Paving Solutions by Tilers Tools as a backed alternative to traditional methods, ensuring your outdoor surfaces look pristine and last for years.
Myth #1: “Bleach is the Best Solution for All Stains”
Reality:
Bleach is often touted as a miracle cleaner, but when it comes to outdoor tiles and paving, it can do more harm than good. While bleach can indeed remove surface stains, it can also damage your tiles and the surrounding environment. Bleach is highly corrosive and can cause discoloration on natural stone and concrete surfaces. Moreover, it can kill surrounding plants and harm wildlife due to its toxicity.
Suggested Alternative:
TT Paving Solutions offers cleaning products such as TT Paving Solutions Everyday Cleaner, providing effective stain removal without the harsh side effects. These solutions are professionally formulated to break down tough stains while preserving the integrity of your tiles and keeping the environment safe.
Myth #2: “Sealers Are Unnecessary for Outdoor Tiles”
Reality:
Some people believe that outdoor tiles are made to withstand the elements and don’t require any additional protection. However, this is a costly misconception. Without a proper sealer, outdoor tiles are vulnerable to water infiltration, staining, and cracking. Over time, unsealed tiles can deteriorate much faster, leading to expensive repairs or replacements.
Suggested Alternative:
Whilst this can be a controversial opinion, we here at Tilers Tools are of the consensus that sealers can significantly extend the life of your tiles. Sealers provide a protective barrier that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, ensuring that your tiles remain in top condition and it also protects and fills in the micro-pores on the surface of the tile.
Micro-pores are tiny little craters on the surface of porous materials such as porcelain. If you were to take a microscope out, it would probably look like the surface of the moon. Because of the structure of this material, it causes long term problems of dirt build-up within these pores, such as dirt, algae and detritus. The sealer acts in a way that fills in these mini holes, protecting your materials from outside influences whilst also making it easier to clean and maintain your tiles.
Sealing also enhances the colour and texture of your tiles, keeping them looking fresh and vibrant for years. It can also help protect your grout too! Using the TT Paving Solutions Seal-It is not only effective against oil and water stains but is easy to use and it doesn’t alter the appearance of your tiles.
Myth #3: “Brick Acid is Safe for Cleaning Outdoor Tiles”
Reality:
Brick acid, or hydrochloric acid, is commonly used in construction to clean mortar stains off bricks. However, using brick acid on outdoor porcelain tiles is a dangerous practice that can cause severe damage. Brick acid is highly corrosive and can eat away at the surface of tiles, especially those made of natural stone or concrete. It can cause etching, discoloration, and even structural damage, leading to costly repairs.
Suggested Alternative:
If you need to remove stains such as Grout Haze, opt for a cleaning solution with Orthophosphoric acid Instead of relying on harsh and potentially harmful chemicals like brick acid. The TT Paving Solutions Grout Haze Remover for example is perfect for effortlessly removing stubborn residues such as mortar, cement grout, plaster, and encrusted dirt from ceramic and porcelain without damaging your tiles.
Click our video below to find out more on the dangers of brick acid, alternatively click here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9n0bjUrxYlk&t=2s
Myth #4: “Pressure Washing Is the Only Way to Clean Paving”
Reality:
While pressure washing can be effective, it’s not always the best choice for every type of paving. High-pressure washing can erode grout lines, damage tile surfaces, and push dirt deeper into porous materials. In some cases, excessive pressure can even cause tiles to crack or become loose.
Suggested Alternative:
TT Paving Solutions offers a range of cleaning products that are designed to work effectively without the need for high-pressure washing. These products gently lift dirt and grime from the surface, preserving the structural integrity of your tiles and grout. For particularly stubborn areas, We suggest the TT Paving Solutions Heavy-Duty Cleaner, it can clean years of dirt build up in a matter of minutes such as grease stains and even grout haze. Using a low-pressured wash in conjunction with these products is often sufficient, we recommend using our Macchia High Speed Cleaning Machine and our Ventosa Wet Vacuum for the most optimal alternative.
Our machines are also available for hire, for more information, please click here.
Myth #5: “All Outdoor Tiles Are Maintenance Free”
Reality:
No outdoor surface is completely maintenance-free. Even the most durable tiles can accumulate dirt, stains, and algae over time. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to costly damage and reduce the lifespan of your tiles.
Suggested Alternative:
Regular maintenance all year round can help you avoid these issues. As previously stated, investing in a good sealer such as the TT Paving Solutions Seal It is a good start to helps preserve the longevity of tiles. Make sure you are regularly cleaning your tiles with the TT Paving Solutions Everyday Cleaner as your standard maintenance routine.
Look out for seasonal changes-black spot and algae mainly occur around Autumn/Winter from damp weather and debris such as leaves. Make sure you remove debris from the area first, you can you use a brush, or for ensuring dirt is eliminated, wet vacuums such as our Ventosa are perfect for removing dirt whilst simultaneously cleansing the area. Using the TT Paving Solutions Algae and Blackspot Remover ensures you eliminate unwanted lichens. You can keep your outdoor tiles in excellent condition with minimal effort.
Myth #6: “DIY Solutions Work Just as Well as Professional Products”
Reality:
DIY cleaning solutions, like a mixture of vinegar and water, may work for minor cleaning tasks, but they often fall short when it comes to more stubborn stains or long-term maintenance. These solutions are not formulated to address the specific needs of outdoor tiles and can lead to inconsistent results, or worse, damage your tiles.
Suggested Alternative:
TT Paving Solutions provides professional-grade products that are formulated for outdoor use. These products are designed to tackle a wide range of issues, from deep-seated stains to long-term weather protection. Using professional products ensures that you’re giving your tiles the best possible care, which can save you money in the long run by preventing damage and extending the life of your paving.
Why Choose TT Paving Solutions?
TT Paving Solutions is a comprehensive range of products designed specifically for the unique challenges of maintaining outdoor tile and paving cleaning. Unlike generic cleaning products, TT Paving Solutions are professionally backed and tailored to meet the needs of different surfaces, from natural stone to concrete.
Their solutions not only clean and protect but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains, algae growth, or simply want to preserve the beauty of your tiles, TT Paving Solutions has you covered.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining outdoor tiles and paving doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By debunking these common misconceptions and choosing professionally graded products like TT Paving Solutions, you can ensure your outdoor spaces remain beautiful and durable for years to come. Don’t fall for the myths—opt for proven solutions that provide real results.
For more information on how TT Paving Solutions can help you maintain your outdoor tiles, visit Tilers Tools today. Your outdoor spaces deserve the best care possible, and with the right products, you can achieve stunning, long-lasting results.
