Installation and Care Guide

Proper installation, sealing, and maintenance are essential to the long-term performance and appearance of handcrafted cement tile.

Redondo Tile Collection cement tiles are individually handcrafted and require specific installation and care procedures to ensure lasting durability and beauty.

We strongly recommend installation by an experienced tile installer familiar with cement tile products.

Detailed installation, sealing, cleaning, and maintenance instructions will be provided with your order.

Installation Basics

• Store all tile in a dry area prior to installation.  Do not allow boxes or tiles to become wet before installation.
• Cement tile is handcrafted and slight variation in color, shade, texture, and pattern is natural and expected.
• Tiles should be installed over a flat, level, and properly cured surface using a high-quality thin-set adhesive suitable for cement tile.
• We strongly recommend professional installation by an installer experienced with cement tile products.

Sealing Requirements

• Redondo Tile Collection cement tiles are not pre-sealed and must be properly sealed both before and after grouting.
• We recommend using a high-quality penetrating or impregnating sealer designed for cement or natural stone surfaces.
• Always test sealers and finishing products on a sample tile prior to application to confirm the desired appearance and finish.
• Proper sealing and ongoing maintenance are essential to protecting the tile surface and minimizing staining, moisture absorption, and wear.

Grouting

• Cement tile should be properly sealed prior to grouting to help protect the surface from staining and grout haze.
• Use a non-pigmented grout whenever possible and avoid allowing grout to dry on the tile surface.
• Clean excess grout promptly during installation using clean water and a soft sponge.  
• Do not use acidic cleaners, abrasive pads, or harsh chemicals during the grouting process.
•  Always follow grout manufacturer recommendations and test installation products before full application.
  

Cleaning After Installation

• After installation is complete, clean the tile surface thoroughly using clean water and a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for cement tile or natural stone.
• Do not use acidic cleaners, bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or abrasive cleaning products, as these may damage the tile surface and sealer.
• Allow the installation to cure fully before heavy cleaning, furniture placement, or exposure to excessive moisture.

Ongoing Maintenance

• Regular cleaning and periodic resealing are recommended to help maintain the appearance and durability of cement tile.
• Use only pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone or cement surfaces.
• Avoid dragging heavy furniture or abrasive materials across the tile surface, as this may scratch or damage the finish.
• Maintenance frequency may vary depending on installation location, exposure, and level of foot traffic.

Important Precautions

• Inspect all tile prior to installation.  Installed material is considered accepted.
• Blend tiles from multiple boxes during installation to help distribute natural variation in color and pattern.
• Cement tile is a handcrafted product and natural variation is part of its artisanal character.
• Do not use acidic cleaners, abrasive pads, or harsh chemicals on tile surface.
• Redondo Tile Collection is not responsible for improper installation, sealing, cleaning, or maintenance procedures.

Care & Maintenance Tips

• Clean spills promptly to help minimize staining.
• Use only pH-neutral cleaners designed for cement tile or natural stone surfaces.
• Always test cleaning, sealing, or maintenance products on a sample tile before full application.
• Periodic resealing may be recommended depending on installation location, moisture exposure, and level of foot traffic.
• Matte and natural finishes may develop character over time as part of the normal aging process of handcrafted cement tile.
• Avoid waxes, acidic cleaners, bleach, vinegar, or abrasive cleaning products.
• For stubborn stains or maintenance questions, contact us before using specialty cleaning products.
• Use protective pads under furniture and avoid dragging heavy objects across the tile surface to help minimize wear and scratching.
• Use floor mats at exterior entrances to help reduce dirt, grit, and moisture that may contribute to surface wear over time.
• Proper sealing and maintenance will help preserve the natural appearance of the tile over time.