Buzz
Tile is an elegant, long-lasting material, ideal for areas prone to moisture such as kitchens, bathrooms, and mudrooms due to its water resistance and ease of cleaning. Its durability and resistance to dirt often lead to the misconception that it requires no maintenance—simply install it and forget about it. However, this is far from the truth.
Sadly, tile is not maintenance-free. Over time, it can become discolored and dirty, and without proper care, it may start to deteriorate, crack, or loosen. Like all things, tile needs regular attention to maintain its longevity. One of the most crucial steps in tile care is ensuring it is sealed periodically.
Not every type of tile requires sealing, and if it does, you might be unaware of the last time it was sealed, particularly if you’ve recently moved into a new home. Here’s how to assess whether your tile and grout need sealing or resealing, and the benefits of doing so.
Not every type of tile requires sealing
Sealing tile and grout is essential to block water infiltration. Water constantly threatens your home, whether through natural disasters like hurricanes and floods or subtle leaks that seep into walls and floors, fostering mold and decay. It can also penetrate the tiny pores in tile and grout, trapping dirt, promoting mold growth, and weakening the adhesive holding your tiles in place.
Almost all grout requires sealing, as it is a porous cement-based material. Applying a sealant safeguards your grout from water damage, maintaining its appearance and delaying deterioration. Sealing also prevents stains caused by water carrying dirt deep into the grout, where cleaning becomes challenging.
However, not all tiles need sealing. Natural stone tiles typically require it, but most ceramic or porcelain tiles are non-porous and don’t need sealing. That said, exceptions exist, so it’s wise to consult the tile manufacturer for specific recommendations.
How to determine if resealing is necessary
If you have porous tile, such as natural stone (like travertine or marble), and are unsure whether it needs sealing, a simple test can help: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the tile and grout. If the water beads up and doesn’t absorb, the tile is sealed and the sealant is effective. If the water soaks in and darkens the area, sealing is necessary. Don’t assume professional installation means the tile was sealed—grout requires curing time, so many installers delay sealing. Test both new and existing tile. How often should you seal? Most experts recommend sealing porous tile and grout every two years, but annual sealing is safer and ensures better protection.
How to select a sealant for tile and grout
Once you’ve confirmed your tile or grout needs sealing, there are additional factors to consider.
Type of sealant. Tile sealants come in two main types: penetrating and non-penetrating. Penetrating sealants absorb into the grout and tile, filling tiny pores to block water and dirt. They’re ideal for high-moisture areas like showers, as they allow the material to breathe and prevent trapped water. Non-penetrating sealants create a surface layer that repels water but can hinder evaporation, potentially leading to mold or stains. While penetrating sealants are generally preferred, non-penetrating options work well in low-moisture areas like kitchen floors and are easier to apply. Always test the sealant on a hidden area to ensure it doesn’t alter the tile or grout color.
The age of the tile or the last sealing doesn’t matter—you can seal tile and grout at any time, provided it’s in good condition. However, thoroughly clean the existing tile and grout before applying the sealant.
