Grout Restoration
- February 18, 2015
- Category: Hard Surface Maintenance, Tile & Grout
Grout Restoration
Least to Most Aggressive Procedure – how it will affect your wallet.
At Home D.I.Y. Grout Cleaning
Because of its (typically) light color and porous composition, grout is prone to staining. Dirt and grime are the usual culprits, while in the kitchen, spills are more likely to blame. Soap, mold, and mildew make it difficult to maintain clean grout in bathrooms. Fortunately, grout cleaning is possible using the correct chemicals and a bit of elbow grease.
With any cleaning project, it’s always best to start off with the least aggressive cleaning solution. When in doubt about a cleaner, test it in a hidden spot-behind or under an appliance. The best way to begin is by using a high-alkaline cleaner, and a stiff-bristled nylon brush. Never use a wire bristle brush as this may scratch the tile surface. Grout cleaning is the most cost-effective alternative to replacement or resurfacing of an existing tile floor.
Professional Grout Cleaning
If you are not the type that is inclined to “Do-it-Yourself” projects, you might want to consider hiring a professional! The professionals have the know-how, and equipment to do the job right. The professional that will clean your grout and tile will have a built-in extraction system that cleans and disinfects tile and grout. This method of cleaning grout is the industry standard. This method of cleaning grout is the industry standard.
Here’s how it works…
Because grout is porous, dirt, grease and moisture get trapped below the surface in the grout material. Mildew and Bacteria flourish and discolor the grout. It looks ugly and is unsanitary.
The cleaning equipment the professionals use, forces steaming hot vapor molecules deep down into the pores of the grout, violently expanding, killing bacteria and forcing out the dirt and debris. The natural surface color and texture of the grout is restored. The grout is now clean and sanitized. After the grout is thoroughly dried, a permeating sealant can be applied to help prevent staining and ease in future cleanings.
Epoxy Grout Color Seal
If deep cleaning just isn’t enough for your stained grout, an Epoxy Grout Color Seal over can be applied to grout lines.Epoxy Grout Color Seal is an epoxy stain and sealer for renewing or changing the color of the cement grout.
It creates a barrier from the dirt, germs and grime that normally settle deep into untreated grout. Epoxy Grout Color Seal will protect your grout making it non-porous, less likely to stain, more sanitary and easier to clean.
Formulated with fade-resistant pigments, Epoxy Grout Color Seal protects the grout against stains while it beautifully enhances, harmonizes or contrasts to the tile or decor. Available in 48 colors that will complement any tile or stone installation.
Grout Replacement
Depending on the condition of the grout, sometimes drastic measures have to be taken. The grout may have to be removed with an oscillating Dremel® tool or with a reciprocating saw with a carbide grout removal blade.
After the grout is removed, it will have to be replaced and re-sealed as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting under the tiles and creating mildew.