Adding a beautiful stone or tile to your home can improve the appearance of your space. Installing this stone or tile effectively so that it can last longer does need grout. And, it’s crucial to use the right grout when you decide to install stone or tile. This installation can help to keep your stone or tile looking great throughout its lifespan. Remember that grout is the key element of the tile installation process. You can find several types of grout on the market. This article discusses everything about grout.
Types Of Grout
The type of grout can play a significant role in the lifespan of your tile. And, different grout types can be right for different applications. You can decide to use epoxy grouts which are considered to be the most durable types of grout because they tend to be resistant to water damage and stains. Even better, this grout can withstand harsh cleaners.
No doubt, epoxy grout is the right option where food and moisture can be present like in kitchen backsplashes and bathroom installations. You can find epoxy grout that has a fade or yellow color.
There is also sanded grout which is cement-based where they add sand into the mix. The Sand can create a bond in the grout to make it more resistant to shrinking and cracking. Also, it can help with slip resistance when it comes to wet areas. This grout is usually ideal for installation with grout lines that are wider than 1/8 inch to assist prevent cracking and shrinkage.
Lastly, you can find non-sanded grout which is a cement-based grout utilized for smaller grout joints that have spaces of at least 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch. If you use this grout in larger joints, it can crack because there may be a lot of shrinkages. Also, it can crack because there is a lack of sand to create a bonding effect.
The good thing about non-sanded grout is that it’s easier to work with, especially on vertical walls as it has sticky properties and can stay in place during application. There is a chance that you are looking for a tile and grout service provider, so you can check grout repair here.
The Best Time To Seal Your Grout
You need to seal your grout, especially if you live in moisture-prone areas or even when working with light-colored grouts. Keep in mind that the only type of grout that may not require sealer is epoxy. In most cases, epoxy grout is inherently pre-sealed.
That said, grout sealers usually come in two forms which are applicator sealers and spray sealers. You can apply applicator sealers directly to the grout using a brush or a rollerball. You don’t need a lot of precision with spray-on sealers, but they may need more clean-up later on.
You may likely opt for a penetrating grout sealer. This one can soak through the materials to make an impenetrable barrier. Also, there are membrane sealers that can create a layer on top of your grout and tile. But these may become penetrable with time, and moisture can also get trapped below to give some problems down the line. Regardless of the type of sealer, you should always make sure that you re-apply it every couple of years.
