If you have ceramic tile in your kitchen or bathrooms, these tiles are secured in place and sealed against moisture intrusion with some type of grout between each tile. Different types of grout require different measures to clean and preserve it.
You’ve likely seen older grout that is black or otherwise appears dirty and unkempt. Knowing how to identify your type of grout is important so you can maintain it properly for a better appearance and longer lifespan.
There are three main types of grout used in homes with ceramic tile, with some variations in each type. They are cementitious grouts, epoxy grouts and furan grouts.
Cementitious grouts, as the name implies, are based primarily on Portland cement. They also include some other fillers and additives, and they can be infused with colored pigments. This is the most common type of grout used in homes. Sanded cementitious grouts are used with wider seams between tiles, ⅛ inch or more, because the larger sand particles allow for a stronger bond. Unsanded cementitious grouts contain finer particles and are better suited for smaller widths between tiles, usually between 1/16 and ⅛. All cementitious grouts are applied with a trowel and are slow drying for maximum hardness.
Epoxy grouts contain no cement, but instead are made from epoxy resin, silica fillers, pigments, and a hardener. Because epoxy grouts are less porous than cementitious grouts, they are better suited for environments where grease and certain acids may be present, like kitchens or commercial applications. Epoxy grouts also come in both unsanded and sanded forms, although with a different type of sand particles. They have a much quicker drying time, but are ideal when you need maximum stain resistance.
Furan grouts are not commonly used in residential applications due to their cost and more involved method of application. This type of grout is made from polymers of fortified alcohols; the name Furan actually comes from the furfuryl alcohol included in the formula. Two components are combined to activate this grout for use and hardening: a furan resin and a filler powder with an acid catalyst. Furan grout is ideal for heavy traffic applications like brick pavers or quarry tile and is very resistant to grease, acid and other chemicals.
Sanded grout is easy to spot because the sand particles are visible and it is generally used in wider seams between tiles. Narrow seams will mean an unsanded grout was used. Any cementitious grout will have to be sealed to protect against moisture. They can be any color, but the texture will be the main giveaway because of the cement base. Choose an unobtrusive corner and scratch at the grout with a nail. You should be able to flake some grout away and see the cement properties.
Epoxy grouts are becoming preferred now over cementitious grouts because they are easier to apply and maintain and can last longer. An epoxy grout, either sanded or unsanded, will be smoother in texture than cement-based grouts. The finish will almost seem like a hardened plastic seam between your tiles. If you use the nail flaking method above in a hidden corner, epoxy grout will not flake cement-like particles.
Many homeowners choose tile floors and walls because they require less maintenance than other options. While this is a true benefit of tile and grout, some maintenance is still required to keep your tile surfaces looking clean and lasting a long time.
Most tile and grout finishes should be sealed for protection against moisture intrusion, staining and grime buildup. Cementitious grout is particularly susceptible to staining and absorbing moisture, so routine cleaning and resealing every few years is recommended. Epoxy grout is not as porous but can still be stained, so it should also be protected.
Beware of endless scrubbing with bristled brushes or using harsh chemicals to clean your grout and tile. These methods actually erode your grout and can permanently damage your tile, causing both to appear dull and overused. Plus, you are weakening your tile and grout system, allowing even more risk of moisture intrusion and eventual cracking or pitting.
Light scrubbing with a moderately firm brush and gentle cleaners is recommended to preserve your tile and grout, and to remove soap scum and grime. Most spray-on-and-rinse solutions either do not work as advertised or will damage your type of grout. Anything that cannot be removed with light scrubbing and gentle cleaners should be left to professionals.
Revivify Surface, LLC offers professional-grade maintenance and cleaning for all types of grout and tile in homes across the Pacific Northwest. Our specialists know the types of cleaners and methods to use on various types of tile and grout, and we use special machinery and techniques to clean and preserve your surfaces without damage.
We also offer routine tile and grout maintenance that includes periodic sealing for added protection against damage and wear. No matter your type of tile in kitchens, bathrooms, washrooms, laundry rooms or other spaces, we can clean, repair and protect your surfaces to extend your investment.
Contact Revivify Surface today in Portland, Oregon, or Vancouver, Washington for more information and a free estimate on tile and grout cleaning and protection.