March 5, 2023

Dirty & Dingy Grout: Does It Need to be Replaced or Resealed?

Many homeowners in New Hampshire and Southern Maine spend a lot of time and money trying to keep their homes clean and tidy. Over time, however, even the most well-maintained homes can start to show signs of wear and tear. 

One common problem is dirty or stained grout. While mopping and scrubbing can help to some extent, the truth is that grout cleaning is best left to the professionals. 

Fortunately, there’s a great solution — grout restoration. But when do you need grout restoration – and when do you simply need resealing? Let’s take a closer look. 

When Should Grout Be Replaced?

Over time, grout can become stained, cracked, or otherwise damaged. While it’s possible to repair minor damage, in some cases, it may be necessary to replace the grout entirely. There are a few telltale signs that indicate when it is time for a replacement. 

First, take a close look at the grout lines. If they’re significantly discolored or if there are large cracks, then repairing and restoration are likely necessary. 

In addition, pay attention to the condition of the tile itself. If the tile is chipped or cracked, then replacing the grout will not improve its appearance. Instead, you likely need tile replacement.

Finally, consider how easy it is to clean the grout lines. If they’re difficult to clean or if residue remains after cleaning, then this is a sign that grout resealing is needed. 

By keeping an eye out for these signs, you can ensure that your grout and tile always look their best.

Do You Need Grout Sealing?

If your grout is simply discolored, it doesn’t need to be replaced, it just needs to be cleaned and resealed. Large cracks, however, may need to be replaced or resealed.

During the grout restoration process, the original color of the grout is restored. This is usually done by repairing (if necessary), cleaning, then applying a new coat of grout sealer. 

Grout sealer protects your grout from dirt, stains, and other debris. Sealing also makes it much easier to clean the grout in the future. 

Should You Use Clear Grout Sealants?

Unfortunately, clear grout sealers don’t last and are simply a waste of time; they’ll wash right off in a short amount of time.

Instead, consider color sealants. (These are the only type of grout sealant we use at Tough Grout!) Color sealants bond to the grout, look the same as the original grout, and will give you consistent coloring — even with stains. 

How Long Does Grout Sealing Last?

The length of time that grout restoration will last depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the sealer used and how often the floor is used. In general, however, you can expect grout restoration to last at least 5 years (but some of our floors have lasted up to 10 years!). 

With proper care and maintenance, your restored grout will stay looking like new for years to come. 

How to Care for Your Restored Grout 

There are a few things you can do to prolong the life of your newly restored grout. 

  • First, make sure to use only gentle cleaners on your grout and flooring. Harsh cleaners can damage the sealer and cause it to break down prematurely. 
  • Second, avoid water sitting for too long on your floor or shower. Too much water can also damage the sealer and cause it to break down over time. 
  • Finally, always remember to reseal your floors every 5 – 10 years to ensure optimal protection against stains and dirt build-up. 

If your home’s tile floors or showers are starting to look dingy and dirty, then it may be time to consider grout resealing. But how long does grout sealant last? With proper care and maintenance, you can expect your restored grout to last for five years before needing another treatment!
And for help with keeping your grout looking its best in Southern Maine or New Hampshire, contact Tough Grout today!

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