| Copyright © 2008 Christopher R. Prickett. All rights reserved worldwide |
I love tile. I hate grout. Tile on the floors, tile in the shower, tile on the
countertops. Just like my siblings and in laws, all have their own issues that
have to be handled in their own unique ways. Here are some tips that I
have found to work. Your mileage may vary.
Attacking the Cracking- The most common maintenance issue related to
the installation of tile is grout cracking, specifically where the tile meets the
baseboards, cabinets, tub/shower, and any other dissimilar material that
butts up to the tile. Grout is inflexible, so any movement from changes in
temperature or humidity, can cause that grout line to crack. Sanded caulk is
flexible. resembles grout, and comes in an array of colors. So if this is a
quick and easy way to eliminate grout cracking, why doesn’t the builder do
it in the first place? Good question!
Seal the Deal- Grout sealing can reduce the need for cleaning and
minimize the effects of stains from food, dirt, and in the case of wet
locations, mildew. There are specific sealers for specific conditions. Some
are made for new installations, whiles other are meant to rejuvenate older
grout. There are sealers that give a “wet” look, and others that are
undetectable. This is project that you can do yourself, but it can be tedious
and difficult. Hiring a professional may be the way to go.
Cleaning and Preening- There are 101 different products that clean grout
and another 101 home remedies that range from logical to comical.
Whatever you choose, there are a few things to remember. First thing is
that once the grout starts deteriorating no cleaner in the world will bring it
back to life. Next thing is that unless you’re a chemist, never mix cleaners!
One last bit of advice; Power tools don’t forgive! The use of grinders,
sanders, and electric scrubbers can cause irreparable damage to the grout
and the surrounding tile, if not used with extreme care. For badly stained
grout, a call to a professional might be the best way to go.
countertops. Just like my siblings and in laws, all have their own issues that
have to be handled in their own unique ways. Here are some tips that I
have found to work. Your mileage may vary.
Attacking the Cracking- The most common maintenance issue related to
the installation of tile is grout cracking, specifically where the tile meets the
baseboards, cabinets, tub/shower, and any other dissimilar material that
butts up to the tile. Grout is inflexible, so any movement from changes in
temperature or humidity, can cause that grout line to crack. Sanded caulk is
flexible. resembles grout, and comes in an array of colors. So if this is a
quick and easy way to eliminate grout cracking, why doesn’t the builder do
it in the first place? Good question!
Seal the Deal- Grout sealing can reduce the need for cleaning and
minimize the effects of stains from food, dirt, and in the case of wet
locations, mildew. There are specific sealers for specific conditions. Some
are made for new installations, whiles other are meant to rejuvenate older
grout. There are sealers that give a “wet” look, and others that are
undetectable. This is project that you can do yourself, but it can be tedious
and difficult. Hiring a professional may be the way to go.
Cleaning and Preening- There are 101 different products that clean grout
and another 101 home remedies that range from logical to comical.
Whatever you choose, there are a few things to remember. First thing is
that once the grout starts deteriorating no cleaner in the world will bring it
back to life. Next thing is that unless you’re a chemist, never mix cleaners!
One last bit of advice; Power tools don’t forgive! The use of grinders,
sanders, and electric scrubbers can cause irreparable damage to the grout
and the surrounding tile, if not used with extreme care. For badly stained
grout, a call to a professional might be the best way to go.
| Grout Care 101 |