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<\/a><\/p>\nCleaning terracotta surfaces<\/strong> isn’t a difficult task and terracotta isn\u2019t a difficult material to look after. But it does have a high level of absorbency, so it needs to be correctly sealed to prevent staining. Traditionally, terracotta was treated with boiled linseed oil and white spirit. Fortunately, a wider choice of treatments is now available, including natural and eco-friendly water-based formulations.<\/p>\n Like all natural surfaces, a correct cleaning regime throughout and beyond the laying process will ensure that the surface maintains its original look and is easy to care for.<\/p>\n For starters, it\u2019s worth pre-sealing a terracotta surface<\/strong> with FILA PRW200<\/strong><\/a>. Grout residues will be much easier to remove and a pre-seal will also speed-up the drying time after the initial wash, and after subsequent treatment stages.<\/p>\n An initial wash should always be carried out, to remove residues of adhesive and grout, along with accumulated dirt. If it isn\u2019t carried out properly, the application of any subsequent protective treatments will be compromised, as you\u2019ll effectively be \u2018sealing in\u2019 the deposits.<\/p>\n In the case of terracotta, an acid cleaning product should be useful. Choosing a \u2018buffered\u2019 solution has a lot of advantages; these types of formulations don\u2019t emit harmful fumes, erode aluminium or steel trims or damage profiles. You can speed up the process further by using a multi-purpose acidic product, like FILA Deterdek<\/strong><\/a>, which will both clean the surface and remove all residues. After application, always leave the detergent to act for a few minutes and then, using a brown pad or sponge, wipe up residues before rinsing with clean water.<\/p>\n In terms of sealers, water-based products are ideal, as they\u2019re odourless, have a lower eco-impact and dry quickly. If you don\u2019t want to alter the tiles\u2019 appearance, choose a natural- effect impregnator \u2013 like FILAW68<\/a><\/strong> – which won\u2019t stain. Indoors, wax products can also be applied to provide a natural, satin, shiny or high gloss finish; look our for FILA Matt<\/a><\/strong>, Satin<\/a><\/strong>, Classic<\/a><\/strong> or Longlife<\/a><\/strong>. Outside, a water repellent is strongly recommended. Both water-based products and solvent formulations are available and can be followed by application of a stain protector; Fila recommends either FILAHP98<\/a><\/strong> or FILAES82<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n Once laid, a pH-neutral cleaning product should always be used to maintain terracotta; FILA Cleaner<\/a><\/strong> is ideal. This will lengthen the life of the impregnator and finish, and will ensure that the surface remains protected, in terms of practicality, longevity and aesthetics. Always avoid normal household cleaners as they will break-down the surface protection provided, cause surface staining and can, potentially, damage the finish of the tile. And, throughout all stages, always carefully follow instructions.<\/p>\n