Tile is very pretty in the kitchen, bathroom, and throughout the house. Grout that holds the tile together needs to be maintained consistently since particles of dirt, food, and other small specks can be absorbed into the grout. We maintain our floors by mopping, sweeping, and cleaning overall. Grout needs to be cleaned periodically to keep it looking new! Over time grout become dark and dirty looking.
There are 2 types of grout-sanded and un-sanded. Un-sanded grout is used to maintain narrow lines between the tile and for tile surfaces that would not be affected by scratching if particles of grout gets on the tile. Sanded grout is made of sand and cement. Sand adds durability and cures the grout insuring stability.
Epoxy grout is often used in wet areas that have temperature changes and moisture. The epoxy sealing resists water and soil in tough areas. All grout will need a special cleaning with specific products to maintain the tile from cracking.
Grout can be cleaned with household products of baking soda, water, and vinegar. Mix 2-3 parts baking soda with 1-part water to make a paste to apply directly on grout with finger tips. In a spray bottle mix 1-part vinegar to 1-part water. If you have marble or natural flooring, do not use vinegar-it will harm the tile. After the solution stops bubbling, wipe with a nylon brush or toothbrush on the grout. Afterwards mop the residue up with plain water.
Another option would be to use ¾ cup of baking soda (abrasion) with ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide, and 1 Tablespoon of dish soap. Hydrogen peroxide releases bleach ions with the baking soda, and the dish soap removes grime. Don’t use on colored grout. Rub into grout and then scrub with nylon brush or toothbrush. After 15 minutes pour warm water onto tile to rinse.
Every year you should add grout sealer to your tile to protect the grout from water, bacteria, and stains. Sealing the grout prolongs the fresh look, repels water, moisture, dirt, and germs while preventing mildew and mold. Epoxy grout does not need to be sealed since it is already resistant to water and dirt. You should NEVER apply grout sealer to the surface of non-glazed tile or natural stone tile. Add grout sealer 48 hours after grout has been dry.
Sealer can be rolled on, sprayed, or painted on with a brush. Brush will take longer, but less clean up and a direct implementation to the grout. Sealer is applied to all grout lines and joints without touching tiles. Sealer must be removed from tile before it dries with a dry clean cheesecloth. Allow 48 hours to cure and seal properly.
More tips can be found on our blogs!
Need assistance? Give us a call and we will schedule an appointment convenient for you.
It isn’t just about the DUST,
Invite someone in your home you can TRUST!
