It seems as though you are hearing it everywhere these days: Recolor your Grout!
But is this merely the newest fad or is there genuine value in having this done? The answer is, it depends. The truth is, when performed by a quality contractor using a quality product there is a lot of value and in many circumstances the absolute best option without question. The problem is some are touting this service yet doing nothing more than ‘painting grout’ with what amounts to house paint.
Color Restoration of your gout may be a recent innovation, but it is certainly not just a fad. Quality color sealers repel oil and water-based liquids, which will prevent food and beverage stains. In addition, they contain constant acting mildewcides and other agents that inhibit the growth of bacteria and mildew. This not only offers health benefits by making your floors more sanitary, but can reduce or eliminate the funky smells you often find with older floors that have had a long time to absorb a variety of odiferous liquids. Color sealed floors are consequently easier to maintain.
There are aesthetic reasons for choosing color sealing as well. When you have areas where only some of the grout needs to be replaced, it is virtually impossible to match the color of the new grout to the older grout that is still intact. Even if you use the identical product and color, aging and wear has already altered the look of your previously installed grout and the difference is usually noticeable. Color sealing, however, will provide a consistent look across the board, making all of your grout look new again. And not just new —color sealing can completely change your grout to virtually any color you choose. The benefit of this is obvious. Are you considering new decor, an updated, fresher look or more contemporary colors? Your existing grout doesn’t need to hold you back or limit your choices. Color sealing is a way to harmonize with and complement remodeling without the expense of re-grouting. With color sealing, you can even change from a dark shade to a lighter one.
Sounds great, doesn’t it?
Well, it is, but there are a couple of caveats that you need to be aware of. First of all, this is not recommended as a do-it-yourself project! Proper application that ensures complete protection over the entire surface of your floor is an art that requires training and practice to master. It is difficult to do correctly on the first attempt. Secondly, professionals not only have the training, experience and tools to do the job, they have access to a wide variety of professional sealers and so are better equipped to select the one that is right for your circumstances. Finally, not all grout color sealing services are the same. The quality of the product that is used is critical! Some companies —even some that may surprise you —are using products that are tantamount to house paint. It may look great right after they finish, but within a short time, the paint peels. Not only that, but this type of product does not have the properties of a proper color sealer, such as the constant acting mildewcides or true stain prevention. Be sure to do your due diligence, and don’t hesitate to thoroughly question your prospective provider.
The Color Restoration Process
Max’s grout color sealer can be applied to the grout lines of interior and exterior ceramic and porcelain tile installations. The grout lines of natural stone tiles can be color sealed as well, provided that the stone itself has already been protectively sealed.
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Before starting the color restoration, it’s essential to clean the grout lines thoroughly. This typically involves using a grout cleaner to remove dirt, stains, and any previous sealants. Cleaning the grout ensures that the color restoration product adheres properly and provides an even result
Step 2: Color Selection and Mixing
Choose the desired color for the grout restoration. Grout colorants or sealants come in a variety of shades, allowing you to match or change the grout color as needed. Mix the colorant according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring a consistent and even color.
Step 3: Application
Apply the grout colorant to the grout lines, using a small brush or a specialized applicator. Take care to apply the colorant evenly, covering the grout lines while avoiding the tile surface. Allow the colorant to dry for the specified time, typically around 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 4: Sealing
After the colorant has dried, apply a grout sealer to protect the grout and the newly restored color. The sealer helps prevent staining and keeps the grout looking fresh. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the drying and curing time of the sealer.
Grout color restoration is an effective way to revitalize the appearance of your tile surfaces, giving them a clean, refreshed look without the expense of regrouting.
Sometimes, grout color sealing is the optimal solution.
Consider this example:
“Max’s was called to clean the tile floors at an elementary school where many children, in addition to tracking bits of the playground and other grime across the floors in all weather, had also drawn on the floors (and consequently the grout lines) with pencils, crayons, pens and so on. No matter how clean we got the tile, the grout, being much more porous, hung on to the various staining agents and continued to look dirty in spite of our best efforts. Max’s grout color sealing to the rescue! By color sealing the grout, we not only did away with the stains and made the floors look like new, we also prevented future staining, reducing their cost of regular maintenance for years to come.â€
Benefits of Restoration
Grout color restoration offers a multitude of benefits for homeowners and property owners seeking to rejuvenate their tile surfaces. Firstly, it provides a cost-effective solution to refresh the appearance of grout lines without the need for expensive regrouting. It can instantly transform the look of your tiles, making them appear cleaner and more appealing. This process not only restores the original color but also seals and protects the grout, preventing future staining and deterioration. Additionally, grout color restoration allows for customization, enabling you to choose a new grout color to complement your decor or achieve a fresh, updated look. It’s a time-saving and efficient method that can be completed in a fraction of the time it would take to regrout, making it a convenient choice for busy households and commercial spaces. Overall, grout color restoration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your tiled surfaces but also extends their longevity, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to revitalize their living or working spaces.
