When it comes to grout sealing in Northern Virginia, no one does it better than The Grout Medic.
Chances are, no matter where you live, you have tile in your home. Tile is attractive, simple to maintain, and long-lasting no matter your routine. Inevitably, the tile’s shine will fade, and the grout will become discolored over time due to age and use. While it’s true that deep cleaning your grout, like you would a carpet or rug, is necessary for thorough cleaning and sanitation, there’s one crucial step you can’t skip: sealing the grout afterward. Never neglect the process of grout sealing; failure to do so is a surefire way to cause irreparable damage to the subfloor or wall behind your tiles.
What are grout, mortar, and tile?
Though all grout, mortar, and tile all seem similar enough, each provides a vastly different function for your tiled surfaces. Understanding how they differ can help you understand how their care differs, and how each can be damaged in different ways.
Grout is a very thick compound often made of water, sand, and cement. Grout helps keep tiles securely in place when they are used in day-to-day activities. It does this by getting into the small voids in your tile, forming a locking path between surrounding tiles. Grout also helps protect your tile, which often is highly fragile, reducing chipping and cracking.
Mortar is used to adhere the tiles to the subfloor or underlayment like drywall and is manufactured in much the same way as grout but generally with lime. Both grout and mortar are porous, meaning they contain tiny spaces within them, but once they dry, they produce a solid material that helps keep the tile in place for years of heavy use.
Tiles are often crafted from several different clays before being baked in a kiln and glazed to create a durable outer layer. Like the grout and mortar, the unglazed sides and back of the tile are porous whereas the exposed side of the tile is waterproof.
The First Line of Defense for Your Grout, Mortar, and Tile
Grout sealing is the first line of defense for your tiled surfaces. Not only does the sealant repel water, but it prevents fluids from getting into the pores of your grout, accessing the unglazed side of your tile. Once this moisture has gotten past the sealant and grout, it will ultimately settle deep within before attacking your subflooring and drywall, causing mold and mildew build-up and water damage, often unknown to you until far too late.
Always get your grout cleaned before sealing it!
Before applying any grout sealant, make sure the grout has been well-cleaned and allowed to properly dry. Especially if your grout sealing has been worn away, contaminants have likely worked their way into the grout, causing discoloration and a safe place for bacteria to grow. Because mold and mildew thrive in dirty environments, your tile, grout, and the substructure that the tile is adhered to will all deteriorate quickly. The damage to the tiles or the foundation could cost thousands of dollars if enough moisture is left there.
The Grout Medic of Northern Virginia uses high-heat, low-pressure steam in our grout cleaning services, which effectively removes all dirt and grime that has formed stains and disinfects your grout and tile of germs and other contaminants. After that, our experts will apply a thick coat of sealer to your grout. After 24 hours, your grout sealing will have cured and will be able to properly protect your tiled surfaces. Though our sealants are rated for 20 years, it is highly recommended that you get the grout resealed every 2 years, as some cleaners and heavy usage of your tiles could erode your sealant and expose the grout once more.
Are you looking to update the look of your tiled surfaces?
If you’re interested in updating your tile without the cost of replacing it, ask The Grout Medic of Northern Virginia about our grout color sealing options. This alternative to our clear grout sealant is just as durable, so you’ll receive the same reliable protection!
Searching for “grout sealing near me?” We serve the following areas in Northern Virginia:
Alexandria, Ashburn, Arlington, Vienna, Fairfax, Burke, Great Falls, Clifton, Warrenton, Lovettsville, Round Hill, Hamilton, McLean, Leesburg, Chantilly, Herndon, Burke, Manassas, Oak Hill, Centreville, Nokesville, McLean, South Riding, Reston, Stone Ridge, Sterling, Springfield, Southbridge, Brambleton VA, and surrounding areas of Northern Virginia.
The Grout Medic can revitalize and protect your home or business’ grout. Contact us for your obligation-free, in-person evaluation. Call 703-634-4646, or email northernvirginia@thegroutmedic.com.