Shower Tile Sealer – 5 things you need to know!
Unlocking the secrets to a pristine and long-lasting shower starts with understanding the importance of shower tile sealer. Knowing the ins and outs of shower tile sealer is essential for maintaining the beauty and functionality of your shower space. In this article, we will cover five things you need to know about shower tile sealer. From its benefits and types to application techniques and maintenance tips, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to elevate your shower game and ensure that your tiles remain protected and sealed for years to come.
Here’s what we want you to know when it comes to shower tile sealers:
1. All tiles are not created equal.
It’s a common misconception that tiles are identical in terms of maintenance requirements. In reality, tiles can vary significantly in their composition. In houses across south east Queensland, you’ll find ceramic, composite stone, natural stone, porcelain, and even glass tiles. As you might have guessed, these different types of tiles require different types of tile maintenance and tile sealants.
2. There are different types of shower tile sealer
Before embarking on the task of bathroom resealing, it’s crucial to carefully consider the type of sealant you will use. In general, you have two main options, and it is highly recommended to opt for good quality products whenever possible.
The first type of sealant is topical sealants. These sealants dry on the surface of the tile, creating a protective barrier that prevents water from seeping through. They form a coating that acts as a shield against moisture and liquid penetration.
On the other hand, penetrating sealants employ a different approach. Instead of forming a surface barrier, they penetrate into the pores of the tile. By doing so, they effectively seal the micro-holes and fissures, preventing any liquid from filling them up. This method ensures comprehensive protection against water damage.
When choosing the most suitable sealant for your project, it is important to consider factors such as the type of tile you are working with, its porosity, and the specific requirements of the area being sealed.
3. Tile grout does not last forever
It’s important to dispel the common misconception that tile grout is designed to last indefinitely. While grout can have a long lifespan under ideal conditions, it is not intended to last forever. Traditional grout is typically made of cement and, whether it’s sanded or un-sanded, it possesses a high level of porosity.
Here’s the problem: When you wash or mop the tiled surface, you pick up the surface dirt rather than effectively clearing the pores. Consequently, the grout becomes dirtier and increasingly unappealing. Moreover, the water that penetrates through the pores creates an ideal environment for mould growth, leading to unsanitary conditions. Unfortunately, removing mould without replacing the entire grout is nearly impossible, requiring not only re-grouting but also the removal and potential damage to the beautiful tiles you invested in for your home.
But fear not! By applying a protective shower tile sealant layer, you can extend the lifespan and enhance the appearance of both your grout and tiles.
4. Sealing old grout is possible
While it is optimal to seal grout immediately after tile installation to safeguard your investment and reduce future maintenance, it is never too late to seal old grout and prevent potential damage.
If you are unsure whether the existing tile grout is adequately sealed, perform a simple test to determine if resealing is necessary. Place a few drops of water on the dry grout and observe its behavior. If the water beads up and remains on the surface, the grout is still adequately sealed. However, if the water is absorbed and disappears into the grout, it is time for a reseal!
When working with old grout, there are a few additional steps to consider, namely deep cleaning and repairing. Use an old toothbrush or a grout brush to thoroughly scrub the grout, ensuring a deep clean. Whether you are sealing a tile shower, kitchen backsplash, or bathroom floor, it is crucial to clean the old grout as thoroughly as possible before applying the sealant.
Before treating the grout with a sealant, inspect the grout lines for any cracks or chips. If you find any, repair them by applying touch-up grout and allowing 48 to 72 hours for it to cure before proceeding with the sealing process. In case the grout becomes stained prior to sealing, gently scrub it with a mild bleach solution. However, be cautious not to use anything too abrasive, such as a metal brush, as it could scratch or damage the tiles.
It is important to note that once you seal a tile floor or wall with a stain, there is no way to reverse it, as the stain will be permanently sealed into the tile. Therefore, exercise care and caution during the sealing process to avoid sealing any undesirable stains into your tiles.
5. Sealing grout can be a DIY job (but we can take care of it for you)
Do you need to hire a professional to seal your grout? No, you can seal grout yourself. Although if you’re unsure about the process or don’t have the tools, it’s something we can take care of while carrying out your shower sealing. If you do want to DIY, you’ll need protective gloves, clean dry towels, painter’s tape, and either a foam brush or a grouting sponge.
- Begin by taping off surrounding surfaces, such as baseboards or fixtures, to prevent accidental staining
- Gradually apply the sealer using the foam brush or sponge. We recommend using a brush or sponge for optimal coverage rather than a spray or roller. Ensure that you coat the grout lines thoroughly, covering the grout joints entirely. If any sealer accidentally gets on the tiles, simply use a damp cloth to swiftly wipe it away.
- Allow the first coat of sealer to soak into the grout as per the manufacturer’s instructions before applying multiple coats, if necessary.
- Finally, wipe off any excess sealer with a clean dry towel and allow the sealer to cure for up to 48 hours before cleaning or exposing it to moisture.
To test the effectiveness of your sealing job, flick a few drops of water onto the grout line. If the water forms puddles on top of the grout, congratulations! You have successfully sealed your grout on your own.
When it comes to grouting, caulking and shower sealing in Brisbane and surrounds, our team is ready to help. With more than 20 years of experience, you can feel confident in our abilities and expertise. Contact us today!