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5 Common Myths About Cleaning and Sealing Tile and Grout

Whether you chose tile flooring for your home, or it was already installed when you moved in, it’s a great material that offers endless benefits. Tile is a green flooring option that is low maintenance, versatile and easy to keep clean. It also has a long lifespan and won’t attract mold, germs, dust mites or bacteria like other flooring can. 

However, your tile and grout will need to be cleaned and sealed regularly. We recommend professional cleanings about twice a year, and grout sealing every two years. Below are five common myths about sealing tile and grout – and the truths behind them! 

Myth #1. Tile grout lasts forever. 

While we wish this were true, tile grout does not last forever. Traditional grout is cement-based, so it’s porous and easily traps water, dirt and oil. Even regular cleanings do not clean the pores – it only cleans the surface dirt. 

Not only will the grout eventually look dirty and stained, but also it can create the perfect breeding ground for mold. To combat this, you’ll need to regularly clean your tile and seal it every couple of years with a protective sealant. 

Myth #2. All grout sealers are the same. 

Not all grout sealers offer the same level of protection. And there is no single sealer that we recommend to everyone. Instead, the sealant you use depends on your tile and its location. Penetrating sealers absorb into the grout and protect it from stains and grease. It does this by filling in the little holes with sealer to keep moisture out. 

Membrane-forming sealers are great if you’re looking for a basic level of protection. These sealers create a coating on the surface of the grout to resist water. We recommend membrane-forming sealers for kitchen floors and backsplashes, while penetrating sealers are best for showers, tubs and bathroom backsplashes. 

Myth #3. You don’t need to hire a professional for cleaning. 

While it’s true that you can clean and seal tile flooring on your own, you must ask yourself if it’s worth the time and effort. Cleaning and sealing grout is a tedious job. Plus, there are certain benefits you can expect when hiring a professional tile and grout cleaning service. 

For example, these flooring experts have a trained eye to notice the slightest buildup of mildew, mold or stains. If these are not removed properly, your floors will continue to look dirty even after the cleaning. A professional can also help you choose the right sealants. 

Myth #4. You can’t seal old grout.

If you just moved into a new home with tile, or you’ve neglected your tile for quite some time, you might assume you can’t seal old grout. But this isn’t necessarily true! Start by putting a few drops of water on the grout. If it beads up, you don’t need to reseal it yet. 

If it soaks into the grout, then it’s time for resealing. However, old grout does require a few extra steps. It will need to be thoroughly cleaned and repaired. You might also want to choose a sealant with color to instantly freshen up the look of old grout! 

Myth #5. Sealing tile is not necessary – only the grout.

Sealing tile can be just as important as sealing grout. It all depends on the type of tile you have. Ceramic and porcelain tiles do not need to be sealed because they’re durable and long lasting. The only time these materials require sealant is when they‘re unglazed. 

However, other types of tile, such as clay tile, require sealing. These natural stone tiles have small grooves and pits that allow elements to get trapped inside. With proper sealing, the tiles can keep out dirt, liquids and debris.

Schedule Tile and Grout Cleaning Today 

Texas Elite Restoration and Cleaning offers tile and grout cleaning services. We can tackle the biggest jobs and leave you with sparkling, clean tiles. Keep in mind that cleaning and resealing are important parts of your maintenance plan. For a free estimate on tile and grout cleaning, contact our cleaning and restoration experts today.