Does porcelain tile need to be sealed?

Author: Alia Brown  |  Last update: Thursday, November 27, 2025

Porcelain tile are a different material than ceramic tiles. They don't need to be sealed as they are a much harder surface. And from our water test, there doesn't seem to be any absorption of water at the surface of the tile. It seems you may have a grout problem.

What happens if you don't seal porcelain tiles?

Most porcelain tiles won't need sealing, as they are naturally robust and offer water resistance. However, if you have polished porcelain or other porous tiles they must be sealed to stop water from entering and damaging the tile. Unsealed tiles can stain, and attract dust and dirt which can be difficult to clean.

Can you put a sealer on porcelain tile?

Porcelain generally doesn't require sealing, but sometimes, like in your case, you can apply a light application of' penetrating sealer', to fill in the micro holes. If you are applying over grout also, just bear in mind the sealer may darken the tone of the grout a little.

What should you avoid with porcelain tiles?

Porcelain tiles tend to be harder, more resilient and more stain-resistant than ceramic tiles. They are one of the easiest types of tile to maintain but their surface can eventually be eroded by the regular use of corrosive chemicals such as ammonia, bleach or acids that can also damage the grout and loosen the tiles.

Do unglazed porcelain tiles need to be sealed?

Unpolished tiles don't need to be sealed – but they will benefit from a barrier treatment. Many will be textured and even the most subtle undulation will collect dirt or residue – this can be a particular issue during installation, when grout and other residues will be become trapped in the 'high-low' surface.

Do Porcelain Tiles Need To Be Sealed?

Which is better glazed or unglazed porcelain tile?

To sum up, glazed porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for outdoor or commercial applications, whereas unglazed porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for indoor applications.

How do you shine unglazed porcelain tile?

For example, unglazed or unpolished porcelain tiles respond better to mild soaps and warm water mixtures, while glazed or polished tile often does well with a commercially available porcelain cleaner.

Can you use Clorox wipes on porcelain tile?

Although porcelain tiles offer exceptional durability, there are few products and techniques you should avoid at all costs. Never use a product that contains harmful chemicals such as ammonia or bleach (or any type of acid-based cleanser). These type of chemicals can alter the colour of the tiles and/or the grout.

How many years does porcelain tile last?

On average, porcelain tile can last 50 years or more when properly installed and maintained. In some cases, especially with premium-grade porcelain tiles, the lifespan can extend beyond a century, making it one of the longest-lasting flooring and wall materials available.

Does vinegar damage porcelain tile?

Some household members will use vinegar to clean porcelain tiles. However, experts suggest this is not a good idea because vinegar has a high acidic content which can damage the quality of the porcelain.

What is the best cleaner for porcelain tile floors?

For the best clean, you can use either a specialized tile cleaner or a mixture of water and white vinegar. Generously spray the solution on walls, floor and fixtures, focusing on areas with soap scum, mildew or hard water stains. For tougher grime, make a paste of baking soda and water.

Does porcelain tile scratch easily?

Porcelain tiles are incredibly strong and resistant to scratches, chips, and wear. This translates to a long-lasting flooring solution. Polished porcelain tiles are impermeable to moisture, making them suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas exposed to water and spillages.

Does sealing porcelain tile make it shiny?

Porcelain Tile Sealer For Patios creates a sheen on the surface of the tile once it is dry. It should be applied carefully in just one thin coat. We recommend using a microfibre flat mop or a microfibre cloth soaked in the sealer.

Can you ruin porcelain tile?

While porcelain is resistant to scratches, etching and stains, these surfaces are not damage proof. Take care to avoid exposing porcelain to permanent inks or dyes, as these might not be removable.

Does pressure washing damage porcelain tiles?

Jet washing, when done right, can breathe new life into your porcelain tiles. However, a cavalier approach can lead to surface damage, dislodged grout, and even cracked tiles. When you're using outdoor porcelain tiles as stunning as the ones we have on offer, you want to keep them looking good.

Can water seep through porcelain tile?

Unlike many other materials, porcelain tiles do not require additional waterproofing treatments. Their inherent density and hardness prevent water from seeping through, reducing the risk of mould, mildew, and water damage.

What is the disadvantage of porcelain tiles?

However, porcelain tiles can be somewhat more brittle than standard ceramic tiles, and they have some of the same drawbacks as ceramic tile, including their heavyweight, coldness, and hardness underfoot.

How can you tell if porcelain tile is good quality?

Look for quality certification: To ensure that you're getting high-quality porcelain tile, look for porcelain tile certified by organizations such as NSF, Greenguard, USGBC, Kosher, etc. These certifications guarantee that the porcelain tile meets specific strength, durability, and performance standards.

What not to use on porcelain tiles?

Must-Know Cleaning Porcelain Floor Tiles Tips
  • Never use steel wool to remove stains. ...
  • Avoid using wax or oil-based cleaners; they leave a residue that attracts dust and dirt.
  • Use plain warm water during routine cleaning. ...
  • Always remove dust and dirt before you mop.
  • Never use abrasive tools, as they damage the floor.

Can I use Swiffer wet cloths on porcelain tile?

Swiffer wet cloths are designed to be used on most floor surfaces, such as: vinyl. porcelain tiles. ceramic tiles.

Can you use Dawn to clean porcelain tile?

For most types of tile, including porcelain and ceramic, you only need two ingredients—warm water and dish soap. In a spray bottle, combine warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Spray the water and dish soap solution on the tile surface. Wipe the area with a damp microfiber towel or cloth.

Is Magic Eraser safe on porcelain tile?

Many homeowners ask if Magic Erasers® can be used on porcelain or if they will damage ceramic tile. The good news is that they can be safely used on ceramic tiles and porcelain, so you have nothing to worry about if you plan on using them this way.

How do you tell if porcelain tile is glazed or unglazed?

Simply put – glazed ceramics have a smooth, glossy surface that is created by adding a liquid glass to the clay body. Unglazed ceramics (as the name suggests) aren't glazed and instead are often solid or speckled subdued colours with no shine.

What shines porcelain tiles?

Homemade Cleaning Products
  • It's common knowledge that white vinegar is a wonderful, natural disinfectant, that might add a decent shine to matte porcelain tile. ...
  • Baking soda is another popular natural ingredient that is very helpful when cleaning stubborn stains.

Can you use pine sol on porcelain tile?

Then, follow these steps to get ceramic and glazed porcelain tiles and grout thoroughly clean: Step 1 Add ⅛ cup of Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner to a bucket containing a gallon of water. Step 2 Wet a cloth or chamois mop in the mixture. Step 3 Wipe down the tile floors thoroughly.

Previous article
Can a water pump overheat?
Next article
How to keep rain from coming in around window air conditioner?