In this short blog, we will cover the best methods of cleaning and maintaining a porcelain patio. One of the common myths about porcelain is that the tiles can easily stain. Unlike Sandstone, Porcelain is non-porous, meaning that no substance can penetrate through the surface of the tile and into the internal structure. This is because of the glazed surface over the tile, making porcelain less than 5% absorbent and both water and stain resistant. To put it into layman’s terms, a porcelain tile is just like a stronger version of your dining room plate! This means you can safely wash your patio as many times as you want without effecting the tile. Therefore, if you ever spill anything on your patio or notice anything sticking on the surface, you can simply follow the steps below to have your tiles looking good as new in no time.
How to clean wine stains and other liquids off your porcelain patio
As porcelain is non-porous, liquids will not permanently stain the surface of the tile, including red wine! In most cases, even natural rainfall will clean any liquids or discolouration left on the surface of the tile. If the affected area does require cleaning, you can try wiping the surface of the tile with soapy water and a sponge (even household washing-up liquid often does the trick!). If the area still won’t clean off, we would suggest using LTP Grout Stain Remover (available on our website). Dilute 1 part LTP Grout Stain Remover with 4 parts cold water and apply with a washing sponge, ensuring you wipe off thoroughly with a clean damp sponge or cloth and scrub for tougher marks. If the area still isn’t clean, allow the surface to dry before repeating the process until the mark is completely removed.
How to clean leaf tannins off your porcelain patio
If your patio is positioned under bushes or trees, you may notice leaf tannins being left on the surface of your patio. These can be removed using LTP Grimex (available on our website). To clean the leaf tannin, dilute 1 part Grimex with 10 parts warm water and apply to the affected area with a cloth or mop before wiping off and scrubbing with a clean damp cloth. If the area still isn’t clean, try using 3 parts Grimex (or more in extreme cases) and 10 parts warm water, allowing the solution to react for 5-10 minutes before mopping up and rinsing. Once dry, repeat the process until the affected area is clean.
How to remove rust from your porcelain patio
In some cases, rusty furniture and tools that are left on a porcelain patio can cause rust to appear on the surface of the tile. To remove the rust, simply wipe down the surface to clear off any dirt and dust before completely covering the affected area directly with LTP Rust Stain Remover (available in our shop). Leave this on the affected area for 15 minutes, allowing the Rust Stain Remover to react. As this process occurs, the affected area should begin to turn a deep purple as a result of the reaction. Once you have waited for 15 minutes, remove the residue and rinse off the surface with water. If the rust is still apparent, allow the surface to dry before repeating the process until the rust is completely removed.
How to clean oil, wax and grease off your porcelain patio
To clean off tougher substances such as grease, oil and wax, we would suggest using LTP Grimex. Simply dilute 1 part Grimex with 10 parts warm water and apply to the affected area with a cloth or mop before wiping off and scrubbing with a clean damp cloth. If the area still isn’t clean, try using 3 parts Grimex (or more in extreme cases) and 10 parts warm water, allowing the solution to react for 5-10 minutes before mopping up and rinsing. Once dry, repeat the process until the affected area is clean.
