Vinegar is acidic and can etch certain natural stone, such as marble, travertine and limestone. The occasional use of vinegar on porcelain or ceramic tile with cement-based grout should not cause damage. However, frequent or regular use can discolor and weaken grout and should not be used for routine maintenance. There are several professional-grade UltraCare acidic cleaners that are available when needed, including UltraCare Sulfamic Acid Crystals, UltraCare Cement Grout Haze Remover and UltraCare Acidic Tile & Grout Cleaner.
Regular cleaning is recommended, but the frequency depends on the usage in the area. For most installations and applications, the use of an appropriate cleaner, such as MAPEI's UltraCare Concentrated Tile & Grout Cleaner for floors, or UltraCare Everyday Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner; UltraCare Everyday Stone Clean & Polish; and UltraCare Everyday Stone & Grout Cleaner & Resealer for countertops and backsplashes, is recommended routine maintenance.
Yes, if the existing substrate is in good condition, clean the surface with a degreaser such as our UltraCare Heavy-Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner, rinse and allow to dry.
Then, prime the surface with ECO Prim Grip before applying the mortar.
MAPEIFlexcolor CQ is a ready to use grout that is 100% acrylic and dries harder than cement-based grout. The residue left behind, when not properly removed during the grouting process, can appear as a clear film that can become tacky. This residue can easily be removed using UltraCare Heavy-Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner.
There are several types of cleaners that are used for a variety of different reasons. Alkaline cleaners (high pH), such as UltraCare Heavy-Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner, are best used to “deep clean” the surface and remove organic soiling, such as ground in dirt, cooking oils, etc. These cleaners are safe for occasional use on all natural stone, tile & grout, but are not recommended for regular use.
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