DIY: How to Seal Grout

Sealing tile grout is a tedious task that many homeowners neglect doing. In fact, most homeowners are unaware of the fact that sealing grout is important to sustain the life of your tile flooring. Only after progressive grout discoloration and tile weakening does their neglect come to light..

You, unlike most homeowners, have learned the importance of sealing tile grout. Investing in a grout sealer can not only ward-off stains, helping to make your tile more appealing, but it also helps to ensure that water does not weaken and damage the tiles over time.

Choosing a Grout Sealant

The most popular types of grout sealants are solvent-based and water-based grout sealers. The less expensive of the two is a water-based grout sealer. The only disadvantage is that water-based grout sealants are less durable and do not last as long compared to solvent-based sealants. However, water-based grout sealers are less expensive, and arguably more eco-friendly for your home.

The Grout Sealing Process

The grout sealing process is actually quite simple. You just need to dedicate part of the day to do the work, as well as educate yourself on how to seal grout properly.

1. Organize your tools. The common tools and accessories that you'll need to seal the tile grout include:

• microfiber cloth
• bottle applicator
• a firm scrubbing brush
• the grout sealer

If the grout lines you are sealing are extremely thin, you could use a spray applicator rather than the bottle applicator. The idea is to ensure you can efficiently apply the grout sealer without getting it on the tile.

2. Prepare the tile surfaces. Prepare of the floor's surface by scrubbing the grout lines thoroughly with the brush. This ensures that dirt and debris is removed while leaving a smooth surface to apply the grout sealer. After scrubbing with the brush, wipe the surface with the a damped microfiber.

3. Prepare the grout sealer. After the grout lines are well cleaned and free of debris, fill the bottle applicator with the grout sealer product (note that some sealants come in suitable applicator containers.) You'll want to keep the grout sealer very full to the brim during the application process.

4. Apply the sealant. To apply the grout sealer, use the roller found on most applicator bottles to run up and down the groove lines. The bottle applicator will fill the lines with a layer of sealant. In some cases you may want to add another layer of the grout sealant, but as in any case, take the time to read the instructions that come with the product.

5. Let the grout cure. After the grout has been completely sealed, let the grout sealer cure for about 12-48 hours, depending on how many coats you applied. Typically the longer the better.

Well that's pretty much the grout sealing process in a nutshell. We suggest working in small sections at a time so you can efficiently return and apply second coatings without much downtime. We've also found that both water-based and solvent-based grout sealers are great choices, but solvent-based are typically more sustainable.

Lastly, if you're looking for a great grout sealer product, we have found the Grout Guard Protector to be one of the best products for DIY grout sealing. It's one of the most affordable and easy to use grout sealers, and it's a quality product, (even Martha Stewart Living gave it top ratings during their experiment.) You can get the product here at www.marble-cleaning-products.com.


About the author:
Tyler Tafelsky is a do-it-yourselfer and home improvement enthusiast. Tyler offers a wealth of knowledge and experience working with tile flooring, natural stone surfaces, and various other home improvement projects. You can reach him by connecting with Tyler on Google+.

How to Remove Stains from Grout

If you have tile flooring throughout your home, grout is a necessary material that will ensure the tiles remains strong and water tight. In some cases, tile grout can also add character and definition to the flooring.

However, grout is naturally porous material and thus is susceptible to staining over time. Depending on the type of grout is used, some types of grout are more susceptible to stains than others. 

So what are some of the things you can do to remove stains from grout and further protect from discoloration down the road? Below we'll share with you some tips to best care for you tile grout.

Cleaning & Restoring Grout

If the grout has experienced staining, it may be difficult to get it a hundred percent clean. Grout cleaners will typically get rid of surface dirt but will not be able to permeate into the grout especially if the stain has been absorbed. Some grout cleaner and restorer products are indeed effective at lifting stains. Typically these are composed of more powerful and complex compounds designed specifically for grout cleaning.

If the grout you have is white, you could attempt cleaning it with bleach. Use a brush to work the bleach in so that it can permeate all areas. However, if the grout is not white, it is suggested that you use tile poultice. Apply this then let it sit for several hours covered with plastic wrap. This may make the stains rise to the surface requiring you to simply wipe them off. 

If you would like to keep your grout stain free, ensure that any spills that occur are wiped up immediately to lessen the chances of staining occurring. Over time though, you will find that the grout will become discolored. In these situations, a grout colorant can be used to change the color of the grout to something different. Test the colorant first so as to ensure that it matches with the ties that you have in place.

Sealing Grout

Sealing grout is one of the most effective ways of keeping your grout stain fee. As aforementioned, grout is a porous material and without sealing it, it's much more prone to stains and discoloration. Using a sealant will ensure that the surface is covered thus protecting it from water absorption, staining, mold and the like. Sealant also makes it much easier to clean the grout. 

You will find that some new types of grout will come with the sealant already incorporated into them. However, contractors tend to find these types harder to work with and would rather do without it then seal the regular grout once they are done laying the tiles. To keep your grout in good working condition, it is recommended to seal it at least once a year. You can apply this grout sealer on your own using a bottle applicator or a foam brush. Once you are done with the application process, leave the grout to cure for several hours while well ventilated.

Grout Removal 

In some occasions, you may find that the stains have embedded themselves deeply in the grout thus making it difficult to get rid of them. In such scenarios, grout colorant may not be a good option as the stains may cause it not to look uniform. 

At this point, it would be suggested to have the grout removed and have the tiles re-grouted. A grout additive should be incorporated so as to reduce the chances of staining. 

Getting Familiar with Grout

If there is one material that does not elicit any excitement from homeowners it is grout. This may be a boring material when it comes to home improvement and maintenance, but you should give grout credit for its ability to keep your tiles in place.

In addition to working as a bonding agent, proper grout installation and sealing strengthens your tile flooring and walls. Grout also prevents certain types of damages occurring on your tiles, such as cracking due to over-bearing weight. Although it may not be an intriguing material, it is recommended to learn about grout so that you can understand its essential role.

Understanding the Types of Grout

Generally speaking, there are three main types of grout. The first two types of grout are sanded grout and un-sanded grout. The third type of grout is epoxy grout, which is becoming very popular. Making a choice on the type of grout will usually depend on the types of tiles that you are having installed, as well as the amount of spacing between the tiles.

For slim spaces (typically less than an eighth of an inch) un-sanded grout would be most suitable. Larger spaces should be filled with the sanded grout to ensure the gap is filled completely as well as to avoid the joint from shrinking.

However, there is also an exception to this rule and this comes about when you are using either marble or granite. The job at hand may have slim joints but using un-sanded grout increases the chances of scratching the marble or granite surfaces. In the event that un-sanded grout has the potential of causing harm to these surfaces, it is best advised to use epoxy grout.

Whether sanded or un-sanded grout, both comprise of cement as well as polymer ingredients. This is to stop the grout from becoming brittle and having an irregular color or texture. One thing to note with both these types is that they are still susceptible to staining due to their porous nature. This is why it is highly recommended to have the grout sealed once it has been installed.

When to Use Epoxy Grout?

There are some areas in the home that are commonly exposed to either a lot of chemicals or to a lot of foot traffic. These areas will require a stronger grout that can be resilient to this exposure, and epoxy grout is the ideal selection for these areas.

The ingredients that make up epoxy grout are quite hardy, thus having some resistance to chemicals as well as staining. You will find that some types will even comprise of detergent in their ingredients making them all that easier to maintain clean. Although this type of grout may be an expensive alternative, it would be most recommended to people who would want grout that possesses a long shelf life.

Selecting a Color for Grout

A common misconception people have is that grout will come in either white or grey. The truth of the matter though is that you can get it in a wide array of colors to suit your fancy. If you would like to stay on the safe side, select a color that is neutral and that will not affect the overall look of your tiles.

Otherwise, you can get creative and try to pair a suitable color with that of your stone. Just be sure to seal your grout after it has been installed. Grout sealant will ward-off staining and discoloration, while sustaining the life of your grout, as well as tile, for many years to come.

Common Do's & Don'ts of Granite Care

If you would like to keep your granite in good condition, you should steer clear of any habits that may harm it. Natrual stone, such as marble, limestone, granite, and quartz, tend to be very similar. However, the ways in which one maintains them differs.

Below are some common do's and don’ts when it comes to caring for granite.

The Do's of Granite Care

Mop up any spills immediately when they happen. Although acidic substances such as wine, fruit juice, sauces and the like may not damage granite as much as they would marble, they still have the potential of staining the surface. Cooking oil could also cause stains on the granite if not blotted immediately it is spilled.

Use a soft cloth or a sponge when cleaning. One of the recommended granite cleaners is NuetraSheen as it can be used on a range of surfaces while protecting the sealer on the stone. However, if you do not have this cleaning agent you could do with hot water and a soft cloth for quick wipe downs. Dish washing soap may not ruin your granite countertops immediately but over time you will notice some damage as this type of soap tends to dim the shine.

Invest in coasters. To ensure there are no ring stains on your granite, it is recommended you use coasters when serving drinks in glasses, bottles, or even cans.

Place hot pans on trivets or hot pads. Although thermal shock from placing hot items on the granite is rare, you would rather be safe than sorry. In addition to this, pots and pans tend to accumulate grit over time. Although granite is a hard surface, it could still end up getting light scratches from this.

Always use a cutting board. It is very tempting to cut your vegetables or meat on the countertop, as granite is a hard surface. However, not only do you stand the risk of chipping the granite but you could also end up ruining your knives.

Mop up granite floors on a regular basis. Most homeowners may prefer using a vacuum cleaner as it is faster but you could end up chipping the floor if there is any grit that is jammed in the wheels. You are much better off using a dry duct mop that has not been treated with any chemicals.

Have runners and door mats. The dirt carried in on people’s shoes can be abrasive to your granite floors. This can lead to scratching, wich is difficult to restore.

The Don’ts of Granite Care

Don't use generic granite cleaning products. Most generic household cleaners contain a host of chemicals that could degrade the sealer on your granite thus leaving it susceptible to stains.

Don't use vinegar. This and other acid based products such as lemon or ammonia are harmful to granite. These acids can result in etching on countertops and flooring

Don't use bathroom and grout cleaners. These powders are abrasive and can causes scratches on granite surfaces.

Don't sit on the countertops. Although granite is hard, it is not flexible thus exposing it to a lot of weight in a single spot could cause it to crack.

Don't store toiletries on them. These products tend to leak and could stain the granite.

Best Grout Cleaner and Grout Sealer: Out Top Picks

It's common for the average homeowner to overlooking sealing his or her grout. It's also a common belief that cleaning a tile floor on a consistent basis will minimize the need to seal and protect the grout.

This is a huge misconception, for the fact of the matter is, cleaning grout can actual promote stains, discoloration, and weaknesses in grout.

Grout that has not been sealed is highly susceptible to staining. In fact, the common cause of staining is often the result of cleaning the tile floor with a mop and bucket of water. During the floor cleaning process, the mop water becomes dirtier and dirtier after each rinse. When dirty water meets unsealed grout, it penetrates the material and causes discoloration and weaknesses between the tile.

So whether you've used grout for many years, or are installing tile floor for the first time, sealing your grout is paramount to protect against stains, discoloration, and weakening.

Here at Granite n' Grout Gurus, we came across two do-it-yourself grout care products that clean, restore, and seal grout for optimal protection. We have found these products to be the best for grout cleaning and grout sealing.

Our Pick for the Best Grout Cleaner and Restorer

If you're looking to restore existing grout that has some staining or discoloration, you'll want to clean the grout first. One of the best products to clean your grout is Grout Guard Restorer. What makes this the best grout cleaner is how the product works wonders in lifting stains and restoring severely discolored grout, with minimal effort.

Additionally, Grout Guard Restorer is safe to use on all types of tile flooring, including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, terra cotta, and brick. The price of this grout cleaner is about $30 for the 8oz container. Given the amount of coverage this option offers (100 square feet per 4 oz) and the professional-quality results, the $30 is a very economical price.

Our Pick for the Best Grout Sealer and Protector

After using the Grout Guard Restorer mentioned above, seal and protect your grout with the Grout Guard Protector. The D.I.Y grout sealer is a clear, water-based sealant is colorless, odorless, and completely safe to use on almost any kind of grout. After using this grout sealant, we've found that it is very reliable in warding-off stains from water, dirt, and oils.

The Grout Guard Restorer is one of the best grout sealers we could find, and it's comes highly acclaimed by many trusted sources (namely Martha Stewart Living magazine.) What makes this the best grout sealer compared to other grout sealants is that it releases vapor transmission when applied, which allows the grout to breath. This help to protect the the grout from shrinking or cracking, as well as ensuring that the grout sustains its original texture and appearance.

The Grout Guard Protector is $28 for the 8oz option. According to the supply, this should cover 200 square feet of grout. The supply also has 16oz and 40oz options for about $48 and $78 each. Click to see this grout sealer.

The Takeaway

So for a modest sized floor, you can get the 8oz sizes of the Grout Guard Restorer and the Grout Guard Protector for about $60 together. You may also need some basic tools to clean the grout and apply the sealer. All-in-all, you can manage to restore and seal your grout for under $100 with these two amazing products.

Tips for Cleaning Granite Stone Surfaces

Maintaining and cleaning granite should not be a difficult task. By learning the characteristics of granite stone, as well as the right way of cleaning it, you can better ensure your granite remains in great condition for many years to come.

1. Staining: A common misconception that people have is that granite is a porous natural stone, and as such will stain at the drop of a hat. Although it is true slightly porous, it is still a resilient stone that can be properly protected against stains. One of the ways of ensuring that your granite surfaces do not stain easily would be covering them with a sealer. Granite sealants are ideal for preventive maintenance and sustaining the natural look of your granite.

2. Etching: Etching is not the same as staining. With chemical etching, the granite’s surface is compromised by acidic substances which corrode granite and give it a dull appearance. The common culprits that cause etching are chemical household cleaners that comprise of an array of harsh acids. As much as sealing will prevent staining, it will not fully protect against chemical etching, for most acidic substances will eat through a granite sealer.

When it comes to granite, the best places to use it would be as granite showers, flooring, tub surrounds, stone fireplaces, and powder baths and so on. The granite is less likely to experience chemical etching in these applications. Although most people think caring for granite is a difficult task - this is not so. As long as you familiarize yourself with its properties and keep in mind that it is different from other stone surfaces, you will take the necessary precautions that will ensure you are caring for it through the right procedures. Here are additional tips for cleaning granite:

1. Do no use generic cleaning products when it comes to the care of granite. These are what usually cause damage to the surface through chemical etching. Instead, use only a granite cleaner that is specially formulated for granite and similar natural stone materials.

2. When searching for granite cleaning products, look for those that are specifically formulated to clean granite. Some homeowners may take shortcuts and simply by cleaning products that are cheaper. These products will end up costing you more in the long run as you would be required to look into re-polishing the granite or repairing any etching.

Information is vital. If you have a lot of granite surfaces in your home, then you would be best advised to stay on top of knowing what would be right for cleaning your granite surfaces and what products would damage these surfaces.

8 Tips to Get the Most of Your Granite Countertops

Most homeowners will agree that granite countertops are some of the best that you can get. Not only are they durable, but they are quite aesthetically appealing - making them both functional as well as beautiful. 

Investing in durable granite countertops does not mean that you can neglect to clean and maintain them. For this reason, below we offer some great tips to get the most out of your granite countertops:

 

1.   Avoid droping heavy items the granite countertops. Although this material is quite hard and sturdy, it is prone to chips and can even break if you are not careful. This is especially true if the countertops take a hit on one of their fissure lines. You should be careful when putting down heavy object on the countertops as well as when you are lifting them.

2.   Never stand or sit on granite countertops. Just as heavy object can break or chip them, placing too much weight on them at a time could also cause the countertops to break.

3.   Use cutting boards when cutting vegetable, fruits, met and so on. Most people are quite tempted to simply cut these items directly on the countertops. Remember that the countertops come with a sealer so as to protect the granite. Cutting directly on the granite will damage the sealer and possible crack the granite. In addition to this you will also ruin your kitchen knives.

4.   Never place hot pot or pans on top of granite. Although it is quite difficult to melt or burn the granite, the heat from the pots and pans will definitely ruin the sealer that the granite has been treated with. Place the hot pots and plans on a hot pad.

5.   Clean granite countertops on a daily basis. When using a granite countertop cleaner, use a soft cloth and some warm water or a mild granite cleaner. This will ensure that dirt and dust are kept at bay without interfering with the shine of the granite. If a spill occurs, ensure that it is cleaned up immediately so as to avoid any staining. If extreme staining does occur, you may need to invest in granite cleaning services.

6.   Buff granite countertops from time to time. It is good to take the time and buff granite countertops once in a while so as to get rid of any streaking that may have occurred over time. This can be easily done with an old terry cloth towel that is no longer in use.

7.   Polish the granite, there are stone polishes specifically for granite to ensure that they remain looking shiny and new plus help prevent any staining from occurring. This can also help to restore granite to look like new.

8.   Seal the granite occasionally. When you have the granite installed in your home, it will be sealed at the time of installation however, this granite sealer will disintegrate over time and would be as useful to the granite anymore. As such, you should seal the granite after every few years so as to increase its shelf life.

Due to how beautiful they are as well as durable, granite countertops are considered to be one of the best options one could make for their home. Using the best practices of granite countertops care and maintenance goes a long way to best ensure lasting allure and functionality.

Tips for Cleaning & Maintaining Natural Stone

To best ensure that your natural stone sustains a lifetime of aesthetics and durability, proper care and maintenance is essential. Natural stone is typically more porous than other cermaics, requiring a more intricate approach to cleaning and upkeep.

Many of the cleaners commonly used used for ceramic tile can end up staining or damaging stone. It's thus important when cleaning a natural stone, such as granite, you use a cleaning solution that's free of acids and chemicals. Even a light mixture of vinegar and water can potential harm natural stone over time.

In addition to what you use to clean and maintain natural stone, how you clean the natural stone is equally important. Because stone is more fragile than ceramics, small granules of dirt and sand can actually scratch the surface when cleaning. Therefore, you should always sweep the natural stone surface prior to cleaning it.

Cleaning Natural Stone

It is important that you only use cleaners that are specifically designed for natural stone. These types of cleaners will be acid-free and are concentrated neutral pH cleaners. This will ensure that the existing seal or wax-type coating is not blemished during the cleaning process.

Before cleaning granite or any natural stone, make sure the surface of the stone is dampened with clear water. This will help the cleaning solution to be more effective. The best way to apply stone cleaners is using a sponge or mop (typically for natural tile flooring) or by using a spray bottle or mister (typically for granite or natural stone countertops.) Once applied, allow the cleaning solution to sit for manufacturer's suggested amount of time. Next, carefull scrub the natural stone surface with a with a clean sponge, mop, or soft bristle brush.

Finishing Natural Stone

Once the natural stone has been effectively cleaned, you can periodically apply a finish or wax to further enhance the beauty of polished stone. First, apply the finish with a spray bottle and immediately buff the surface with a nylon pad. Depending on the age of the granite or natural stone, re-apply the polish or wax finishing solution as often as needed. You can typically find granite polish and sealants in retail stores our on the web.

Heavy-Duty Natural Stone Cleaning

In some areas where natural stone has been neglected, you may need to resort to a more heavy-duty stone cleaner to effectively remove dirt, grease, and floor finishes. In these case, try to find a heavy-duty granite or marble cleaner that has low amounts of concentrated organic cleaning compounds. These types of cleaning products are ideally concentrated to deeply clean natural stone without causing any harm or damage. You can also look into some refinishing kits that include everything you need for heavy-duty natural stone cleaning.

Maintaining and cleaning natural stone is an ongoing endeavor that takes the righe approach as well as diligence. We hop these tips will help you keep your granite or marble surfaces shining for many years to come.