Sealing & maintenance FAQs

Natural stone such as marble, travertine, and limestone adds timeless beauty to any space, but because these materials are naturally porous, they can absorb liquids and stains if left untreated. Sealing creates a protective barrier that helps preserve the stone’s appearance and durability, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces.

In this guide, we outline why sealing matters, how often to reseal, and the simple steps to keep your stone surfaces looking their best for years to come.

Mandarin Stone – How to properly seal natural stone tiles

This guide, provided by FILA offers essential care and maintenance instructions specifically for honed terrazzo tiles. Using FILA’s specially formulated products, it outlines the best practices for protecting, cleaning, and preserving terrazzo surfaces to maintain their natural beauty and durability over time.

Fila – Honed terrazzo care & maintenance sheet

The guidelines provided below are general, and there are exceptions to the rules, both in terms of materials and application and sealant required.

Our highly trained staff will be able to offer you a tailor-made quotation based on your individual requirements. All sealants discussed require varying drying times in between applications. When using any sealant, a small inconspicuous test area or off-cut should be sealed first to ensure that the end results are to your liking.

1. Clean thoroughly: Start by cleaning the tiles and grout thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or residue. Allow them to dry completely.
2. Apply sealer: Using a paintbrush or a fleece pad, apply the sealer evenly across the tile surface.
3. Seal grout lines: Apply sealer to the grout lines as well, or use a dedicated grout sealer for best results.
4. Wipe away excess: Let the first coat absorb, then gently wipe away any excess sealer with a clean, dry cloth.
5. Add additional coats: Apply a second coat after the recommended drying time, and a third coat if the area is high-traffic.
6. Test the seal: Once dry, test the seal by placing a drop of water on the surface. If it soaks in, apply another coat.
7. Allow to cure: Avoid walking on or touching the tiles for 24 hours after the final coat to ensure full curing.

Some tiles have porous surfaces with microscopic holes that absorb water and trap dirt, leading to stains, discolouration, and damage over time. Sealing tiles creates an invisible, protective layer that prevents moisture, grime, and spills from soaking in. This not only helps maintain the tiles’ appearance by preventing staining and discolouration but also reduces wear in high-traffic areas and makes cleaning easier and more effective.

Natural stones such as marble, travertine, and limestone are inherently porous and should be sealed to protect them from stains and moisture damage. Sealing creates a protective barrier that helps prevent spills and dirt from penetrating the surface, preserving the stone’s appearance and durability.

Resealing is typically recommended every 1 to 2 years, depending on the type of stone, its location, and the level of use. High-traffic areas or outdoor installations may require more frequent sealing to maintain optimal protection.

While it’s true that many old stone floors were never sealed and still retain their beauty, all natural stone varies in porosity. In today’s homes, where stain resistance and low maintenance are often priorities, we strongly recommend sealing your stone surfaces.

We primarily use sealants from Fila’s professional range and work closely with Fila to ensure we maintain the highest standards of technical knowledge and support. It is crucial to follow best practices during installation, tiles must be thoroughly cleaned and completely dry before each stage of the sealing process. This prevents any building residue or marks from being trapped beneath the sealant, which can be difficult to remove once sealed.

Porcelain or Decorative & Glazed tiles themselves do not require sealing; however, if using a cementitious/porous grout, this grout should be protected with a coat of Fila Fugaproof. Porcelain tiles should also be cleaned as part of the installation process with dilute Fila Cleaner Pro. Any more stubborn marks may require the use of Fila Deterdek Pro but please check with a member of staff before committing to use.

The frequency of resealing depends on the type of tile, the location, and the type of sealant used. As a general rule:

• Natural stone tiles (like marble, travertine, and slate) should be resealed every 1–2 years.

• High traffic or wet areas may need more frequent resealing.

• Test annually with a water bead test to determine if resealing is needed.

It’s best to avoid walking on sealed surfaces for at least 24 hours to allow full curing. Light foot traffic may be allowed earlier depending on the product, but always follow the manufacturer’s drying time instructions.

Ardex ST is a neutral-cure, elastic silicone sealant suitable for both internal and external use. It’s ideal for sealing movement, corner, and connecting joints in areas such as bathrooms, showers, living spaces, and outdoor environments.

Formulated with a fungicide to help prevent mould and fungal growth, ARDEX ST offers excellent resistance to weathering, UV exposure, cleaning agents, and disinfectants. It provides strong adhesion to a wide range of surfaces, including glazed and unglazed tiles, natural stone, enamel, glass, acrylic, anodised aluminium, plastics, laminated worktops, solvent-free acrylic varnishes, and wood, making it a reliable choice for use with most surface finishes, including moisture-sensitive materials like natural stone, without risk of discolouration.

The majority of our natural stone materials fall into the category of medium to high porosity. These include tumbled, honed, or brushed finishes of Limestone, Marble, and Travertine. For these, a two-step sealing process is recommended to ensure optimal protection:

1. Base Sealant: A penetrating sealant is first applied to absorb into the body of the stone and reduce its porosity. This is essential for preventing moisture and staining. Depending on the stone and conditions, either a solvent-based or water-based sealant may be used, however, these two types should never be mixed.

2. Surface Wax: After the base sealant, a liquid surface wax is applied to give a light finish and add an extra protective layer.

For more porous materials, we recommend Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme, a high-performance, water-based sealant suitable for deeper absorption. Once the stone has been fixed and cleaned using a diluted solution of Fila Cleaner Pro, and is completely dry, a single coat of the base sealant should be applied before grouting. This step prevents grout residues or pigments from adhering to or staining the stone.

To check if your tile is properly sealed, drop a small bead of water onto the surface. If the water beads up, the seal is still effective. If it soaks into the tile, it’s time to apply another coat of sealant.

After the grout has fully dried, it’s important to clean the tiles again using diluted Fila Cleaner Pro. This step removes any residual grout polymers that could interfere with the sealant’s ability to absorb into the stone. Once the surface is completely clean and dry, apply 1 to 3 coats of Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme, depending on the stone’s porosity and the desired level of protection. Any excess sealant must be removed immediately to prevent streaking. Don’t forget to seal the grout joints at this stage to protect them from moisture and staining.

Once the base sealing is complete, a liquid wax surface sealant should be applied to enhance resistance to daily dirt and wear. Apply two coats, with the second applied at 90° to the first for even coverage. Finish options include:

• Fila Matt – for a natural, matt finish

• Fila Satin – for a subtle satin sheen (most popular choice)

• Fila Long Life – for a durable, glossy finish

This final layer not only enhances the appearance of the stone but also adds a valuable barrier against everyday grime.

Terrazzo tile installation is more complex than porcelain and should always be carried out by an experienced tiler familiar with the specific methods required for installing, sealing, and finishing Terrazzo. These tiles require careful handling and precise preparation to ensure a successful, long-lasting result.

Before grouting, it is essential that the tiles are completely dry and properly sealed to prevent permanent staining. Only light-coloured grouts, such as Ardex Flex FL in pale tones, should be used. Dark or brightly coloured grouts, particularly black, must be avoided, as they can cause irreversible staining to the tile surface. Always test the chosen grout on a spare tile before applying it to the main surface area.

Before grouting, apply PRW200 water-based sealer to the front and sides of each tile. This pre-treatment serves several purposes: it simplifies the grouting process and post-installation cleaning, reduces drying time, and offers protection against grout stains.

Ensure that the surface is thoroughly cleaned and completely dry both before and after applying the sealer to achieve optimal results.

Terrazzo care & maintance | Installion guide

Sealing natural stone used externally is a personal choice and a topic of ongoing debate. Outdoor stone surfaces are exposed to atmospheric elements, moisture, and organic matter, all of which can cause staining or alter the appearance of the material over time.

While sealing can help protect against water ingress and staining, some people prefer to let the stone weather naturally, allowing it to develop a patina over time.

Two main factors should be considered:

• Type of stone: Lighter stones like off-white limestone are more prone to visible staining and generally benefit more from sealing, whereas darker, more rustic stones like sandstone or slate may be left untreated with fewer aesthetic concerns.

• Scale of the area: Sealing large external areas can be more costly, so it’s important to weigh the practical benefits against the expense.

If you choose to seal, we recommend applying 1–2 coats of Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme, depending on the stone’s porosity, for effective outdoor protection.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preferences and how you want the stone to age in your environment.

Wet areas are exposed to more intense and prolonged moisture, so they require enhanced sealing to ensure lasting protection. In these settings, we recommend applying multiple coats of Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme, a deep-penetrating water-based sealant that helps protect the stone from water ingress and staining.

A liquid surface wax should not be used in wet areas. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause surface waxes to become cloudy or degrade over time, compromising both the appearance and the protection of the surface.

For best results, speak to our team to determine the right number of base sealant coats for your specific installation.

We recommend opening all boxes or pallets to carefully inspect your tiles for any damage. To keep your internal tiles in the best condition, please store them indoors or in a covered area, protecting their edges. When unpacking, take care to remove any spacers and banding before lifting the tiles.

For safe storage, always stack tiles vertically (on edge) and avoid placing them directly on hard surfaces. Having enough help on site to unpack your order safely will ensure everything goes smoothly.

For the most part, the main maintenance regime required for a stone or porcelain floor is regular sweeping and vacuuming.
As well as this, the floor should be mopped regularly with a 1:200 dilution of Fila Cleaner Pro, which is a neutral routine cleaner formulated specifically for use with all tiles and natural stone products without any detrimental effects. The use of abrasive, acidic or alkali household detergents should be avoided as they can remove the surface sealant or in extreme cases damage stone or porcelain. We partner with Fila who have a huge array of cleaning products for all tiling types, which unlike so ‘off the shelf’ options, will not harm a natural stone.

Like any surface, stone, porcelain, and ceramic tiles require ongoing maintenance to preserve their appearance and performance. However, when the correct sealants are used during installation, ongoing care becomes much easier.

Routine Maintenance

• Regular sweeping or vacuuming is essential to remove grit and debris, particularly in high-traffic areas.
• Mop regularly using a 1:200 dilution of Fila Cleaner Pro, a neutral pH cleaner specially designed for use on all tile and natural stone surfaces. This cleaner is safe and won’t damage sealants or stone finishes.

Avoid Harmful Products

• Avoid using acidic, alkaline, or abrasive household detergents, as these can strip away sealants or even damage the surface of the stone or porcelain over time.

Dealing with Tougher Cleaning Needs

• For heavier cleaning or stain removal, use Fila PS87 Pro. It can be used undiluted for stubborn stains or diluted for more general cleaning.
  Important: Do not use PS87 Pro on marble or polished materials without first consulting Mandarin Stone or Fila, as it may damage the finish.

Maintaining the Surface Seal

• If your floor has been finished with a liquid wax surface sealant (e.g., Fila Satin, Fila Matt, or Fila Long Life), you can maintain it by:
  • Adding a glassful of the wax to a bucket of hot water once a month or after routine cleaning.
  • Mopping the floor with this solution to refresh and reinforce the surface protection.

Special Cases

• Stains, incorrect sealant application, or surface marks can usually be remedied with the right product.
  For tailored guidance, we recommend contacting us directly so we can advise on the best solution for your specific issue.

Tip: Always test any product—whether a cleaner, sealant, or stain remover—on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the result meets your expectations.

For further information or to request our Ancillary Product Price List, please contact one of our branches.

• Storage: Keep all Ardex products out of direct sunlight. If stored outside, ensure they’re shaded and weather-protected. Don’t overlook materials left in vans — they can heat up fast.

• Mixing water: Run water until cool before use. Shade hosepipes, and avoid using sun-heated water from buckets or tanks unless adequately protected.

• Mixing tools & area: Mix in shaded zones to prevent tools overheating. Clean tools promptly to prevent material buildup or cross-contamination.

• Substrate temperature: Warm surfaces set products faster. Use thermometers or infrared devices to plan. Shade, tent, or work early to keep substrate temps in check.

• Substrate prep: Highly absorbent surfaces may dry too fast. Dampen them or use a 1:7 mix of water and Ardex P51 primer to control suction.

• Working area size: In hot conditions, reduce your working area to ensure materials are placed and finished quickly.

• Protection against accelerated drying: Use shading and wind breaks where possible. For screeds, consider using an impervious sheet to limit drying from the surface.

Walls, on tile joints, and even stone coverings can be attacked by mould, especially in humid areas like the bathroom and shower. To safeguard the hygiene of your home and the health of your family, it is essential that you eliminate all traces of mould from stone coverings and prevent it forming again. Spray Fila Algacid Active directly onto the surface, leave to act for 15 minutes, then wipe off with a damp sponge.

Minor edge chipping can sometimes happen during packing or unpacking, and this is quite common and to be expected with natural materials. The good news is that these small chips are still perfectly usable! In fact, they’re ideal for making cuts during installation, helping you get the most out of your materials and reduce waste. If you have any questions about how to use these pieces, we’re always here to help!

Coloured stains from substances like coffee, wine, fruit juice, hair dye, ink, or felt-tip pens can be effectively removed using SR95. This product is specially formulated to eliminate stains from natural stone, marble, porcelain, concrete, and polished agglomerates, without damaging the material or its finish, even on low-absorbency ceramics.

Opaque or dull marks, often caused by acidic substances such as vinegar, lemon, cola, wine, or scale removers, can damage the polished surface of marble and other natural stones. Light damage may make the surface appear matt or dull under certain light, while more severe damage can leave white, rough-feeling stains. For restoring these etched or dulled areas, particularly on small surfaces like countertops, windowsills, or vanities, the MARBLE RESTORER kit is recommended to revive the shine and smooth finish.

Dirt naturally accumulates in the joints, turning them black and unhygienic. To clean the joints in stone surfaces, we recommend using a non-aggressive alkaline product like PS87 PRO diluted 1:5-1:10 (1 litre of product per 5-10 litres of hot or lukewarm water), using a brush to remove the dirt. Rinse abundantly. Once the surface is dry and clean, you can finish off the stain protection treatment with the product most suited to the type of natural stone in question.

Etching occurs when acidic substances, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or certain cleaners react with the calcium carbonate in marble, leaving dull spots or marks. To prevent etching, always clean up spills immediately. You can also apply a protective sealant to marble surfaces to reduce the risk.

Natural stone is often used outdoors. In these conditions, rust and sulphate stains are common. For small rust stains, use no rust stain remover which, with its non-acidic formulation, is particularly suited to delicate surfaces like polished marble (internally). Its gel-like consistency means that it acts directly on the stain without wastage, and reduces the risk of contact with grass and plants in the vicinity of the affected area. Completely cover the stain with the stain remover. Leave it for 15 minutes, then remove the residue and rinse thoroughly. Please note – the reaction between the product and the rust will show a purple solution which will be wiped off after 15 mins. Any purple haze from this process will dissipate naturally with weathering as time passes.

Absolutely. Porcelain tile is known for being low-maintenance and highly durable. Unlike natural stone, it is non-porous, which means it doesn’t require sealing to protect it from moisture or stains. Regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove dust and debris, combined with damp mopping using a mild detergent or pH-neutral cleaner, is usually all that’s needed to keep porcelain tiles looking clean and fresh. Its resistance to water, stains, and wear makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial spaces.

Dirt naturally accumulates in the joints between tiles, turning them black and unhygienic. To clean floor joints, we recommend using a non-aggressive alkaline product like PS87 PRO diluted 1:5-1:10 (1 litre of product per 5-10 litres of hot or lukewarm water), using a brush to remove the dirt. Rinse abundantly. If the joints are heavily soiled, wash with DETERDEK PRO diluted 1:10 (1 litre of product per 10 litres of hot or lukewarm water), using a brush. Rinse abundantly after treatment. Once the surface is dry and clean, you can protect the joints with FUGAPROOF eco-friendly stain protector

Porcelain floor are very popular because they are easy to keep clean, but they can easily get stained if not cleaned properly. One of the most common problems with new porcelain tile floors is the appearance, shortly after laying, of stains or, what is worse, shoe prints which can be seen against the light and cannot be removed even by washing the floor. This is usually due to the presence of concrete and grout residue on the surface. This residue forms an even surface film which does not appear as “dirt” but is sensitive to acid substances. Immediately after the floor is laid, it is important to wash the floor with a specifically designed detergent like DETERDEK PRO to remove all residue of grout, mortar and glue. This can also be done by the home owner.

After installation, it’s essential to carry out a thorough end-of-work clean using a neutral cleaner, such as Fila Cleaner Pro, to remove grout haze and residue from the tile surface.

For long-term protection and easier ongoing maintenance:

• Apply a stain-resistant sealer like Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme to reduce the tile’s porosity and protect against staining.

• For routine cleaning, always use neutral pH cleaners. Avoid acidic, alkaline, or abrasive products, as these can damage the tile’s surface and compromise its finish.

By following these steps, you’ll help ensure your terrazzo tiles retain their original appearance and remain durable for years to come.