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How to Seal Tile & Grout

seal tile

Seal Tile and Grout with Confidence

Whether a beautiful kitchen backsplash or a durable shower wall, the perfect tile will transform your project into a masterpiece. However, regardless of the project, you must learn about the basics of tile installation, such as how to seal tile and when to seal grout.

As your go-to tile supply store, the team of experts at St. Louis Tile Company provides you with luxury tiles at everyday prices, and essential tips so you can seal and tile your grout correctly and confidently.

When to Seal Grout

Before we teach you how to seal grout, you must learn when to seal grout as well.

After installing tile, you must wait at least 48 to 72 hours for the grout to dry and cure completely. If your grout lines are cracked or chipped, you will need to touch up the grout. You must also wait for an additional 48 to 72 hours before applying the sealer.

How to Seal Grout

Clean and Repair Grout

Before applying a sealer, you must ensure your grout is dry and free of any dirt or dust. Clean your grout thoroughly with a sponge, scrubbing brush or toothbrush.

You must also repair any cracks or fractures in the grout lines. Otherwise, you will seal in the dirt and damaged seams, which will be impossible to remove.

seal tile
seal tile

 

Tackle one grout line at a time. You should only move onto the next area when there is a noticeable improvement in the color of the grout. When you are finished, allow the area to dry for at least 45 minutes before applying the sealer.

Choose Your Sealer

When choosing a sealer, you must consider the type of tile you are using and where you intend to install it, whether a kitchen, bathroom or elsewhere.

All sealers are different. Some sealers work best with marble and ceramic tiles, while other sealers handle more moisture better than others.

Typically, you can use either a penetrating sealer or a membrane-forming seal for your project. A penetrating sealer is ideal for damp areas such as bathrooms and showers, while a membrane-forming sealer works well in the kitchen.

Choose Your Sealer Applicator

It is crucial to choose the appropriate applicator for your project. You can use a variety of applicator tools, such as a foam paintbrush, a small roller, or a paint pad. However, not all applicators are the same - they have different purposes and the applicator you choose should depend on your specific project.

For example, if your grout lines are thin, you can seal larger sections of your walls or floors with a sponge by wiping over both surfaces at once.

If you have glazed tiles, you can seal the grout lines with an applicator brush or a specialty applicator bottle.

Apply the Sealer

To apply the sealer, it is ideal to work slowly and deliberately.

With your applicator of choice, start in one corner and apply the sealer in small areas at a time, working left to right. You need to cover every corner and apply the sealant in smooth, even coats.

By working systematically, your sealer will provide better protection and your grout lines will appear more consistent.

It is also important to remove the sealer from the tile before it dries completely. To avoid this issue, keep a dry cloth nearby to wipe off the excess sealer when necessary.

Apply the Second Coat of Sealer

Let the first coat dry for an hour before applying a second coat. Depending on the grout sealer you choose, allow 24 to 48 hours for the second coat of sealer to cure.

After the second coat completely dries, test the surface with a few drops of water. If the liquid beads up into droplets, you do not need another coat. However, if your grout does not absorb water at all, apply a third coat to ensure quality results.

What to Buy to Seal Grout

Before you begin, you must have the following materials on hand:

  • Grout sealer
  • Cleaning solution
  • Grout sealer applicator (paintbrushes, foam rollers, sponge)
  • Clean lint-free rag
  • Gloves

If you need assistance choosing tile supplies or want to know where to buy grout sealer, the team at St. Louis Tile Company will be happy to help you.

The Premier Tile Supply Store in St. Louis

At St. Louis Tile Company, we do more than sell luxury tiles at everyday prices. We help homeowners sort through countless options to find the perfect tile for their projects.

If you are still unsure of how to seal tile or what to buy to seal grout, visit our incredible showroom in Ellisville. We are available 7 days a week, with extended evening hours, and offer VIP customer service.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment, 636-220-3550. We look forward to meeting you!

fireplace tile ideas

Published on September 30, 2019
Filed Under: Tile Styles, Tile Tips Tagged With: modern tile, tile remodeling, tile style, vintage tile

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