Natural stone provides a great aesthetic in your bathroom, whether used for the floors, walls, or bathroom countertops. But since natural stone can be pretty porous, it can also provide problems with mold and mildew in this high-moisture room. Don’t let that put you off designing your dream bathroom. Here are some tips on handling mold and mildew on your bathroom and shower tiles.
Properly seal your stone tiles
Just like your kitchen countertops, sealing your bathroom tiles prevents them from absorbing liquid so readily. This helps water from the shower bead and run off your shower tiles rather than soaking in. Look for a penetrating sealer to provide the best protection for your tiles. You should reseal your bathroom tiles at least once per year.
Air out the bathroom between showers
Mold and mildew can be caused by persistent moisture. Your tiles are obviously going to get wet when you use the shower, but mold grows when the stone stays wet, especially if the moisture has soaked into the stone. So, make sure your bathroom is well-ventilated. Open a window after you’ve showered to let the room air out, or make sure you have an effective fan system if the bathroom doesn’t have a window that opens.
Remove excess water
If a lot of water has collected on the walls or floor of your shower, then you can also use a squeegee to remove it and guide it down the drain to prevent it from causing mold and mildew.
Clean your tiles regularly
Residual soap scum can also contribute to the build-up of mold and mildew, so it’s important that you regularly clean your shower tiles and the grout in between them. Always use gentle cleansers on your tiles or products that are designed for use on natural stone. Harsh chemicals and cleaners that are acidic can cause damage to stone tiles like granite or marble. You can also find products that are specifically designed for cleaning mold and mildew.
Repair cracks in grout
If you notice any cracks or gaps in the grout between your tiles, then it’s important to see to this quickly. This will be letting water in and behind the tiles, leading to mold and mildew that will be difficult to get rid of. Call an expert to repair your grout if you see any damage or wear.
If you’re going through a bathroom remodel or are having problems with mold around your bathroom tile, then get in touch with us at Amanzi Granite for services around Kernersville, Winston Salem, Greensboro, and High Point.
