Ceramic
Glazed, non-porous surface. Common in kitchens and bathrooms.
Watch forGenerally easy to clean. Avoid abrasive pads that scratch the glaze.
Grout & Tile Basics — Module 1
Module 1 of 3
Grout & Tile Basics · Module 1
Understanding Tiles and Grout
The main tile and grout types, why grout gets dirty and damaged, and why knowing the surface matters before you clean it.
- Free taster
- Module 1 of 3
- About 5 minutes
Free taster micro-course. This is a short introduction to the topic, not full professional training. For in-depth courses with assessments and certificates, see the CCMTec® Academy.
What you'll learn in this module
- The main types of tile and what makes each one different
- The types of grout, and why grout gets dirty and damaged
- Why understanding the surface matters before you clean it
Types of tile
Not all tiles are the same. The wrong method or chemical on the wrong tile can cause permanent damage. These are the types you'll come across most often.
Porcelain
Very dense and durable, with low porosity. Can be polished or unpolished.
Watch forTextured or unpolished finishes hold soiling. Polished finishes show scratches and streaks, so avoid abrasives.
Natural stone
Marble, limestone, travertine and slate. Porous, and often expensive to put right.
Watch forAcid etches marble, limestone and travertine. Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner.
Quarry tile
Unglazed and porous. Common in commercial kitchens and older buildings.
Watch forAbsorbs grease deeply. Needs dwell time and agitation.
Encaustic or patterned
Decorative and often porous. Found in period properties.
Watch forVery sensitive to harsh chemicals. Test in a hidden area first.
Types of grout
Grout fills the joints between tiles and is almost always more porous than the tile itself. That's why it discolours faster and is harder to clean.
Cement-based grout
Very porous. Stains, discolours and grows mould easily if it isn't sealed.
Epoxy grout
Very low porosity and stain-resistant, so much easier to keep clean. Common in commercial kitchens and food areas.
Furan grout
Used in heavy-duty industrial settings. You'll rarely see it on standard cleaning contracts.
Cement-based grout soaks things up
It absorbs moisture, chemicals and soiling. If it hasn't been sealed, it'll be much harder to clean and more prone to mould.
Why grout gets dirty and damaged
Grout sits slightly below the tile surface, so water, soap residue, grease and bacteria naturally collect in it. In showers and other wet areas, mould thrives in unsealed grout. In commercial kitchens, grease soaks deep into porous grout and is very hard to shift without the right chemical and agitation.
Most grout damage comes from using the wrong chemical, especially strong or repeated acid on cement grout, which attacks it and can make it crumble. High-pressure water can also force moisture behind tiles.
Want to go further?
Our full Academy courses cover topics like this in real depth, with practical guidance, assessments and certificates.
Explore full coursesDisclaimer: This micro-course is a general introduction to grout and tile cleaning and is not a substitute for full professional training. Always test products in a hidden area first and follow the manufacturer's guidance.