Is Grout Sealing Needed for New Tile?
When you have new tile installed in your home, you want to keep it in the best shape possible for as long as possible. One question that many people have when new tile is installed is if it is necessary or important to have the grout sealed. Almost always the installer will not apply a sealer at installation to make sure the grout has time to fully cure (completely dry and set). One of the best things you can do for your brand new tile after the grout is dry is to have it sealed.
Why is it Important to Seal Grout?
Most grout is cement-based, cement is a very porous material. With millions of tiny holes for liquid to seep into, grout absorbs liquid very quickly and all liquid spills should be attended to asap when it comes to cement grout. Sealing your grout provides a protective layer at the surface that slows down absorption. Not only will sealing your grout be beneficial to prevent staining it will also aid in prevention of mold and mildew from moisture trapped in the pores.
Natural Stone Should be Sealed as Well
In addition to cement based grout natural stone is also very porous. This includes popular stones like granite, marble, travertine, slate, and more. Natural stone is beautiful but can become very unsightly, old, worn, or even damaged without a sealer applied. It is almost impossible to keep a natural stone surface looking beautiful without it being sealed.
How to Tell if Your Grout or Stone Needs Sealing
If you are unsure if your grout or stone has been sealed or is in need of a sealing, you can perform a very simple test to help you find out. Just place a few drops of water on the surface in question. If the water absorbs into the surface right away you need to apply a sealant. If your surfaces are absorbing water on contact you don’t want to wait too long to have them sealed.
Water/moisture/accidental spills and stains can cause significant damage to your home and be very costly to repair. It may even lead to having to scrape out grout lines and completely replace them.
So the answer to, Is Grout Sealing necessary for new tile, is yes. Grout sealing is very important to ensure your grout stays stain and mold/mildew/germ free. Ideally sealant should be re-applied once a year after a professional cleaning as it wears down with time and routine cleaning.
For tile and grout cleaning and sealing in Everett and surrounding areas make an appointment online or over the phone with All Kleen.
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