IICRC
Stone,Masonry & Ceramic Tile
Cleaning Technician
EXAM READINESS
Q&S
©2024/2025
,1. What is the recommended pH level for a cleaning
solution used on natural stone surfaces?
- A) 0-4
- B) 4-7
- C) 7-10
- D) 10-14
Correct Answer: B) 4-7
Rationale: Natural stone surfaces are sensitive to highly
acidic or alkaline solutions. A pH-neutral solution (4-7) is
gentle and effective for cleaning without causing damage.
2. Which of the following is NOT a safe practice when
cleaning cultured stone?
- A) Using a high-pressure washer
- B) Applying a mild detergent
- C) Utilizing a soft-bristled brush
- D) Rinsing with clean water
Correct Answer: A) Using a high-pressure washer
Rationale: High-pressure washers can erode the surface
of cultured stone, leading to damage. Gentle cleaning
methods are recommended.
3. When removing grout haze from ceramic tile, which
method is preferred?
- A) Dry buffing immediately after grouting
- B) Using an acidic cleaner
- C) Applying a commercial grout haze remover
- D) Waiting for the haze to wear off naturally
Correct Answer: C) Applying a commercial grout haze
remover
Rationale: Commercial grout haze removers are
formulated to safely dissolve and remove the haze without
©2024/2025
, damaging the ceramic tile's glaze.
4. What is the primary reason for sealing grout in a tiling
application?
- A) To enhance the color of the grout
- B) To protect against mechanical damage
- C) To prevent moisture absorption and staining
- D) To speed up the curing process
Correct Answer: C) To prevent moisture absorption and
staining
Rationale: Sealing grout helps to create a barrier against
moisture and stains, preserving the appearance and
integrity of the grout.
5. Which cleaning technique is most appropriate for
removing oil-based stains from masonry?
- A) Steam cleaning
- B) Sandblasting
- C) Poulticing
- D) Scrubbing with soap and water
Correct Answer: C) Poulticing
Rationale: A poultice is effective for drawing out oil-based
stains from porous masonry materials without causing
surface damage.
6. What is the effect of efflorescence on stone and masonry
surfaces?
- A) It adds a protective layer against weathering
- B) It causes a temporary discoloration that can be
washed off
- C) It indicates the presence of moisture within the
material
- D) It strengthens the structural integrity of the material
©2024/2025
Stone,Masonry & Ceramic Tile
Cleaning Technician
EXAM READINESS
Q&S
©2024/2025
,1. What is the recommended pH level for a cleaning
solution used on natural stone surfaces?
- A) 0-4
- B) 4-7
- C) 7-10
- D) 10-14
Correct Answer: B) 4-7
Rationale: Natural stone surfaces are sensitive to highly
acidic or alkaline solutions. A pH-neutral solution (4-7) is
gentle and effective for cleaning without causing damage.
2. Which of the following is NOT a safe practice when
cleaning cultured stone?
- A) Using a high-pressure washer
- B) Applying a mild detergent
- C) Utilizing a soft-bristled brush
- D) Rinsing with clean water
Correct Answer: A) Using a high-pressure washer
Rationale: High-pressure washers can erode the surface
of cultured stone, leading to damage. Gentle cleaning
methods are recommended.
3. When removing grout haze from ceramic tile, which
method is preferred?
- A) Dry buffing immediately after grouting
- B) Using an acidic cleaner
- C) Applying a commercial grout haze remover
- D) Waiting for the haze to wear off naturally
Correct Answer: C) Applying a commercial grout haze
remover
Rationale: Commercial grout haze removers are
formulated to safely dissolve and remove the haze without
©2024/2025
, damaging the ceramic tile's glaze.
4. What is the primary reason for sealing grout in a tiling
application?
- A) To enhance the color of the grout
- B) To protect against mechanical damage
- C) To prevent moisture absorption and staining
- D) To speed up the curing process
Correct Answer: C) To prevent moisture absorption and
staining
Rationale: Sealing grout helps to create a barrier against
moisture and stains, preserving the appearance and
integrity of the grout.
5. Which cleaning technique is most appropriate for
removing oil-based stains from masonry?
- A) Steam cleaning
- B) Sandblasting
- C) Poulticing
- D) Scrubbing with soap and water
Correct Answer: C) Poulticing
Rationale: A poultice is effective for drawing out oil-based
stains from porous masonry materials without causing
surface damage.
6. What is the effect of efflorescence on stone and masonry
surfaces?
- A) It adds a protective layer against weathering
- B) It causes a temporary discoloration that can be
washed off
- C) It indicates the presence of moisture within the
material
- D) It strengthens the structural integrity of the material
©2024/2025
