Performance Standard: HBR articles 19-1 to 19-5 Click icon to view book
Damaged or loose tile noted on the final walk through report shall be repaired.
Grout cracks in excess of 1/8” and noted on the final walk though report shall be repaired.
Height difference between tiles (lippage) shall not exceed 1/8” (1/8″ = 2 pennies).
Note
Refer to your completed quote from the tile supplier for your ceramic tile selection information.
Homeowner Operation and Maintenance
Cleaning – Ceramic tile is one of the easiest floor coverings to maintain. Simply vacuum the tile when needed. Occasionally, a wet mopping with warm water may be appropriate.
The ceramic tile installed on walls or countertops in your home may be washed with any nonabrasive soap, detergent, or tile cleaner.
There are many excellent household cleaners on the market today. They should all do a good job for you, so use your favorite. Remember, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommended usage. They will perform as promised, if you use them as directed.
All-purpose cleaners included such products as Soft Scrub, Scrub Free, Mr. Clean, Top Job, Fantastik, Ajax Liquid, Liquid Comet and Dow Bathroom Cleaner.
“Soapless detergents” are also commonly found on supermarket shelves. They include such cleaners as Spic & Span and 409.
Grout Discoloration – Clean grout that becomes yellowed or stained can be cleaned with a fiber brush, cleanser, and water. Grout cleansers and whiteners are available at most hardware stores and home centers.
Sealing Grout – Sealing grout is your decision and responsibility. Unsealed grout can get dirty or become stained; however, once grout has been sealed, ongoing maintenance of the sealed area is necessary. Apply a silicone sealer to grout joints several times a year for maximum protection.
Separations – Expect slight separations to occur in the grout between any wall or floor tiles. The grout is for decorative purposes only; it does not hold the tile in place. Cracks in tile floor grout can be filled using premixed grout or a special grout caulk which can purchased from flooring or hardware stores or home centers. Follow product directions.
Tile around bathtubs or countertops may appear to be pulling up after a time. This is caused by normal shrinkage of grout or caulk and shrinkage of wood members as they dry out. You must check grouted areas and re-grout or re-caulk as necessary to prevent future problems. It’s relatively simple to remedy.
Stain Removal Guide for tile and grout
| Stain | Removal Agent |
| Grease and fats | Soda and water or commercial spot lifter |
| Inks and colored dyes | Household bleach |
| Blood | Hydrogen peroxide or household bleach |
| Coffee, tea, food, fruit, lipstick, juices | Natural cleaner in hot water followed by hydrogen peroxide or household bleach |
BUILDER Limited Warranty Guidelines
During the final walk through we confirm that tile and grout areas are in acceptable condition. We will repair any cracked grout in excess of 1/8” and/or damaged tile or loose tile noted at that time.
Excessive lippage (over 1/8” ) will be corrected if noted within the warranty period.
BUILDER is not responsible for variations in color or discontinued patterns. New grout or tile may vary in color from the original.
