Are you redoing your bathroom or kitchen and using tile for your walls or floors? Tile looks beautiful until the grout starts to get dirty, which is one reason you need to seal your grout.
Sealing tiles and grout protects your floors and walls from unsightly stains and maintains waterproofing. It keeps tiles clean, straight, and easier to clean.
Sealing grout is simpler than you might think, and it’s an important step in the process. However, there are a few factors to consider before you pick a grout sealer. Choosing the wrong one can result in a mess and waste both your time and money.
Here’s what to consider before buying a sealant.
The Different Types of Grout
There are different types of grout, and you may need to check to ensure the grout sealer works with the type you have. Some kinds are more porous than others.
The different grout types include unsanded, finely sanded, epoxy, and quarry-type. Wider joints require coarser sand, for instance.
Location of the Grout
You should also consider the location of the grout. Is it a vertical or horizontal surface? Tile floors are very common, but many homeowners also have tile backsplashes in the kitchen or tile showers.
The sealer must work correctly on the surface you have or state it works on both horizontal and vertical surfaces.
Humidity Levels
Most tile is in areas with a lot of moisture and areas prone to mildew and mold. High-moisture areas include rooms like the kitchen and bathroom.
When resealing grout, make sure the sealant you choose is designed to hold up to high levels of humidity.
How Easy It Is to Apply
No one wants to wait around forever when they have a long list of home updates to complete. Grout sealers come in a variety of different applicators. You might find brands that use spray bottles to apply the sealant while other companies sell grout pens.
For example, you can apply this fast drying grout sealer to uncured grout or existing grout, and all you need to do is spray it on the surface.
The Tools Needed for Sealing Grout
As we mentioned, there are a variety of application methods for grout sealers. Read the product description to see if it requires any additional tools.
Here are some tools you should have on hand to make the process easier:
- Gloves
- Eye protection
- A sponge or towel
- Trowel
- Knee pads
- A toothbrush or small scrubber
Some products don’t require additional tools, while others come with what you need. Make sure you read the description before buying one.
Clean and Repair Grout First
For existing grout, you should clean and repair it first. You don’t want to seal in stains or damaged seams.
Take a small scrubber or toothbrush and use soapy water or vinegar to eliminate stains. The area should take about 45 minutes to an hour to dry, and then you can seal it.
Work slowly and apply a second coat if necessary.
Tackle Those Home Maintenance Projects
Sealing grout is so easy that any homeowner can do it. Make sure you choose the right type of sealant first and follow all instructions on the packaging. Soon your bathroom or kitchen will shine again!
Check out some of our other home improvement articles for more tips like these.
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