Often viewed as a luxury expense, most homeowners do not realize that sealants are necessary for the overall care and longevity of their tile and most importantly, grout. Many turn to tile and grout because of the durability it offers, but its weakness is the low porosity of the material. Porous materials easily absorb moisture soil, bacteria, and other debris. The grout and tile will begin to discolor, stain, and collect substances that can stimulate mildew and mold growth, which will make tile and grout unhealthy, unsightly, and accelerate the deterioration. Utilizing sealants are an essential element that offers protection for your grout and tile. Today, we at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to take the opportunity to expound on the importance of sealants for your grout and tile.
Why Does Grout Stain?
In its most basic form, grout is a mixture of cement and sand, which is why it is porous, allowing for liquids, microbes, and soil, that causes it to stain, look dull, and grimy. Using sealants appropriately can prolong the look, texture and consistency of your grout as well as prevent mold and mildew growth. The only time sealant is inapplicable is when epoxy-based grout was used. However, keep in mind that some tiles require sealant.
Is it Necessary to Seal Tile & Grout?
After waiting for the grout to dry and cure following a new tile installation, the sealant should be applied after 48 to 72 hours. Make certain the grout is not cracked or chipped and ensure it is completely dry before starting the sealing process. Being equally porous, any unglazed tile/clay surfaces and natural stone tile should also be sealed.
How Often Should You Seal Tile & Grout?
Typically, after an installation as a part of routine maintenance, the sealants should be reapplied annually, or more often as needed as they dissipate over time, use, and using harsh chemicals for cleaning purposes. To prolong the sealants protection, be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals to clean. Keep in mind that sealing your grout and tile is a rather inexpensive maintenance that when especially compared to replacing the surface or re-grouting, can save you money. You can conduct a simple test to see if the sealants are still effective in the event you are unsure if the sealants integrity is up to par. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface and check to see what happens. If the water beads up the sealant is still efficient, should the water quickly absorb into the tile and grout, the sealant has worn down and it needs to be done.
Deep Clean Before Sealing Tile & Grout
When performing sealing maintenance, it is crucial you ensure the tile and grout undergo a deep cleaning and are completely dry. Sealing the dirt, stains, and moisture resins will trap them. To help people remember this important step in maintenance, it is recommended that it gets incorporated into the spring-cleaning regiment, however, any time is good, no matter if you prefer to do it yourself or invest in professional services.
Natural Stone Cleaning, Sealing, Polishing Services & More in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada
The professionals of Silver State Floor Restoration is readily available to take on the maintenance services and ensure your tile and grout endures a comprehensive deep clean and sealing services. Call us today to get started!
