Recently I replaced a fabricated shower/tub with a full tile job. The walls, ceiling and floor are all now tiled. The tile guy told me he believed in the ‘old’ method regarding tile grout – leave it alone. However, the general contractor strongly suggested I take time and ‘seal’ the tile and grout. He made no suggestions as to product choice just that he would do both the tile and grout – not just grout. The tile was sold to me by a very reptuable tile company for showers and the install included Kurdi underlayment – if that makes any difference in your advice.
Who is correct? Should I do both/one/none? If everyone here recommends I seal the project what is a good product to use and can I complete the job myself?
Thanks, Mike
Replies
My B I L layed tile for a long time for a living and he said every sealer her had ever seen left a yellow cast. Take that for what its worth. I guess my personal suggestion would be to only do a small spot just to be sure you like it after its completely dry.
Bottom paint
My dad used to seal grout lines with thinned out bottom paint for sail boats. The paint contains algicides that also prevent mold and mildew.
You need a really steady hand to do it his way. He used to just take a fine artisists paint brush, and paint the grout line free hand. I've tried it with a guide and still wasn't really good at staying on the line. The saving grace was taht the paint wouldn't stick to the glaze on the tiles, and did penetrate and stick to the grout. So, I could rub it off with a damp sponge.
Sealer will keep soap scum, et al, from working its way into the grout (or at least slow it down a bit). This is probably not as important as it used to be, given "modified" grouts, but still helps prevent grout from getting dirty, especially lighter colors.
I believe that most sealers now advise that you seal only the grout lines (assuming you have glazed tile) as the sealer will leave a slight haze on the tile. Unglazed tile needs to be sealed to keep it from getting dirty.
Boat Sealer
I have never heard of the boat sealer product but assume any marine shop would carry such a product. My tile is glazed and so this might be the way to go, however, I would be more comfortable to use a commercial product made specifically for tile and grout. Anyone have a favorite that has shown long term effectivness? (Is that even a word?)