Grouting

Sealing your finished project!

1. If you project is going outside, will be exposed to spills or moisture it is advised that you seal the grout.  Check the manufactures instruction for recommended sealers.  I recommend using the a penetrating sealer.  This will soak into the grout instead of lying on the surface and will provide a longer lasting result.

2. Sealing should be done after the grout has been allowed to properly cure.  Many sealers have lifetime 10 or 20 year warranty, even if this is the case I recommend periodic resealing.  Once every 1 or 2 years to keep it protected.

3. Often I am asked whether you should pre-seal vulnerable materials before grouting such as unglazed porcelains,  etc.  My answer is almost always no.  That being said it depends on the material.  Most commercially manufactured unglazed porcelain such as Cinca and Lyric and very dense and high fired.  This means that they don't absorb water, therefore they will not be susceptible to staining.  If there is colorant left after grouting it is typically on the surface and will clean up with vinegar or Sulfamic Acid.  If the piece that you are grouting contains pieces that absorb water they will need to be sealed.  This includes low fire  unglazed ceramics.  To test drop a spot of water on your piece and watch if it soaks in. If it does seal it.

    Grout Home