Tile is a durable and attractive choice for floors, showers, backsplashes, and patios, but to keep it looking its best and prevent long-term damage, regular sealing is essential. Over time, the sealant that protects your tile and grout wears down, making the surface vulnerable to staining, moisture intrusion, and mold growth. But how do you know when it’s time to reseal your tile? The most common signs to look out for is what we at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to share today.
Water No Longer Beads on the Surface
One of the easiest ways to check if your tile or grout needs resealing is the water bead test. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the tile surface or grout lines. If the water beads up, your sealant is still doing its job. If it quickly absorbs into the surface and darkens the tile or grout, the sealant has worn off and it’s time to reseal.
Stains Start to Appear More Easily
A properly sealed tile surface will resist staining from spills, dirt, and oils. If you notice that your tiles or grout are picking up stains more frequently, or the stains are harder to clean, your protective barrier has likely broken down. This is especially common in high-use areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.
Discoloration or Dull Appearance
When sealant wears off, tiles and grout can absorb dirt, moisture, and mildew. This can cause discoloration or a dingy appearance, even after regular cleaning. If your tile doesn’t look as vibrant or clean as it used to, resealing may be the solution.
Grout Feels Rough or Crumbly
Grout is especially porous and vulnerable to wear. Over time, unsealed or worn grout may feel rough to the touch, start crumbling, or develop cracks. These are clear signs that resealing, or in some cases, regrouting and sealing, is needed to protect the underlying structure and maintain the look of your tilework.
It’s Been Over a Year Since Your Last Sealing
As a general rule, tile should be resealed every 1 to 3 years, depending on the type of tile, location, and daily wear and tear. Natural stone tiles (like marble or travertine) and tiles in moisture-prone areas often need more frequent resealing than porcelain or ceramic tile. If it’s been a while and you’re unsure, it’s better to check now than to wait for damage to appear.
Why Tile Resealing Matters
Resealing is more than just a maintenance task, it’s a protective measure that extends the life of your tile and keeps it looking beautiful. It prevents water damage, mold growth, and staining, all of which can lead to costly repairs if ignored.
Natural Stone & Tile & Grout Cleaning, Sealing, Polishing & More in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
If you’re seeing any of these warning signs or simply want peace of mind, consider scheduling a professional tile inspection and resealing service. Keeping your tile properly sealed ensures lasting durability, safety, and curb appeal in your home or business. Reach out to Silver State Floor Restoration for superior sealing, cleaning, and other maintenance services.
