If the water in the sponge stays as droplets on the surface of the tile, then the tile doesn’t need to be resealed.
Penetrating sealers will last longer than topical tile sealers, but will not enhance the appearance of the tile.
Topical tile sealers will need to be reapplied more often than penetrating tile sealers, especially if it’s used in a high-traffic area such as a bathroom or hallway.
Ceramic and porcelain tile are much less porous than natural stone, so a solvent-based tile sealer is much more effective at coating them. You can find solvent-based tile sealers at home improvement stores and online.
The natural pores of the stone tiles more readily absorb the water-based tile sealer. Look for water-based tile sealers at home improvement stores and online.
Use warm or hot water to allow the mixture to form soapy bubbles. But don’t use water so hot that it could burn you!
Apply more soapy water to the mop and let the excess water drain into the bucket to keep the mop saturated with soap.
You can use a hard-bristled cleaning brush but don’t use a wire or metal brush or you could damage the grout.
If you’re washing tile on an outdoor patio, use a garden hose to rinse it clean.
If the tile is still wet or damp, wait another hour and then check it again. Use towels to soak up the water or aim a fan at the tile to help it dry faster.
If you’re sealing floor tile, start at the far side of the room and work in sections toward the exit so you don’t walk on the tile after spraying it. Start at the upper corners of wall tile and work your way down to apply the sealer evenly.
Check the packaging of the sealer you’re using for specific drying times. [14] X Research source Set a timer on your phone or watch for 5 minutes.
Don’t scrub the tile with the sponge. Simply wipe over it to soak up the excess sealer.
