skip to main content

Sealer necessary on grout lines: yes or no??

14 years ago

Since grout does not seal out moisture and grout lines can still get dirty even if seams are sealed, what is the purpose of using sealer on grout lines? Is it necessary? We have newly installed tile floors in our kitchen, hall, and bathroom floors and tile shower stalls. Do any or all of these need sealer? I am confused.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (7)

bill_vincent
14 years ago
This straight from my FAQ page:

Q) Do I really need to seal my grout?

A) There are a lot of contractors who will tell you yes, and still others who will tell you no. The reason for sealer is to make cleaning and maintenance easier. There has been a trend in recent years to use light colored grouts in the main floors of the home in order to match lighter colored tiles, and a sealer is used to prevent "wear paths"Â darkening of the grout joints in areas of main traffic in the home. Unfortunately, sealers will not prevent this. YouÂre much better off to use either a medium or darker colored grout. As for using sealer in the bathroom, sealer WILL help, but again, over time, grout will discolor somewhat, or "age", and cleaners will be, for the most part, just as effective, with or without sealer. (Obviously, IÂm one of those who doesnÂt believe in them.)

Here is a link that might be useful: My website's FAQ page
studio460
14 years ago
So, we're just about to seal our tile with Miracle 511. I see that it's not something you recommend. Are you not a fan since it eventually wears off, and because the grout cleans just as easily with or without sealer? What other reasons are there for not using a sealer? Any other downsides to using a sealer? If I don't have to apply it, I'd rather not and save the trouble.
Related Discussions
Do I need grout sealer on really SMALL grout lines?
Q
Comments (4)
Is there grout there? WIll there be overspray from some boy children? Or guests? Or DH? Um hmmm. Sealer. And don't forget to keep it sealed. It's not a once and done project. Every time you clean, you will strip a bit of sealer. The harsher the products used to clean, the more sealer they strip. If water doesn't bead up in those grout joints, it's time to be resealed.
...See More
Laticrete grout and also sealer-for-marble questions
Q
Comments (11)
tell you what, inspect the 511 liquid in a clear glass. If its yellow or gold colored throw it out. sometimes the factory foil seal on the new jugs can fail and allow air in and it may discolor. 511 should be clear and if its yellow it can ruin your grout.I had a bright white grout job yellow with brand new 511 turned out to be defective sealer ( foil seal failed ) cost me A LOT of money in repair and NO thanks to Miracle sealants.
...See More
Apply a Grout Sealer *After* Applying a Grout Colorant?
Q
Comments (1)
I used Aquamix Grout Colorant on my kitchen floor which is an epoxy product that seals the tile too. I did not apply extra sealer because it really isn't necessary. P.S. It's not that tedious a process. In fact, it's very easy to do and has very satisfying results.
...See More
Does grout make a shower waterproof?! Is sealing tile necessary?
Q
Comments (13)
Lot's of poor information in that article and quite surprising that someone like her would be so misinformed. She does make an important point about ventilation. But no, grout is NOT waterproof. Not all grout needs sealing (epoxy based doesn't), and her cleaning advice neglects to mention that it is appropriate only for glass, ceramic or porcelain tile. Vinegar or other acidic based agents should NOT be used on natural stone installations Odd given that Waterworks sells natural stone tile as well as other materials.
...See More
bill_vincent
14 years ago
Let me put it this way-- if someone wants to seal their grout, it's certainly not going to hurt it. I just think it's a waste of time and money, because that which it's supposed to do-- it doesn't do. Atleast not to any great extent.
studio460
14 years ago
Thanks again for your reply, Bill!

FWIW: I recall someone here recommending either the Stonetech- or Miracle-brand of "penetrating" sealers, over "the crap they sell at Home Depot." So we bought a bottle of the Miracle 511 "Impregnator" sealer, not knowing there was also a Miracle 511 "Porous Plus" sealer, which they describe as their "best-performing penetrating sealer." The "Impregnator" is simply described as their "original" penetrating sealer. If the claimed performance of these sealers is negligible, then we're likely going to skip this step.
bill_vincent
14 years ago
I recall someone here recommending either the Stonetech- or Miracle-brand of "penetrating" sealers, over "the crap they sell at Home Depot."

Yeah, I know that guy. :-)

The Impregnator would be all you need to seal the grout. The Porous Plus will do the same job at twice the price. Where that stuff shines is when sealing porous stone or tile, like terracotta or some really porous limestones.
studio460
14 years ago
Thought that was you! Thanks again for clearing that up!
studio460
14 years ago
Thought that was you! Thanks again for clearing that up!

Related Stories

REMODELING GUIDES 9 Ways Grout–Yes, Grout–Can Add to Your Design

Choose From a Palette of Grout Colors for a Warm, Unified Look

TILE Epoxy vs. Cement Grout — What's the Difference?

By By Any Design Ltd.

Grout is grout, right? Nope. Cement and epoxy versions have different appearances, durability and rules of installation

KITCHEN DESIGN Yes, You Can Use Brick in the Kitchen

By Becky Harris

Quell your fears of cooking splashes, cleaning nightmares and dust with these tips from the pros

HOUSEKEEPING How to Clean Grout — Stains and All

If your grout is grossing you out, this deep-cleaning method will help it look new again

TILE 3 Key Steps for Grouting That Looks Its Best

By By Any Design Ltd.

Get your grout right to keep your tile beautiful and for an installation that will last

KITCHEN DESIGN Wonderful Wood Countertops for Kitchen and Bath

By Pangaea Interior Design, Portland, OR

Yes, you can enjoy beautifully warm wood counters near water sans worry (almost), with the right type of wood and sealer

KITCHEN DESIGN Kitchen of the Week: Brick, Wood and Clean White Lines

By Becky Harris

A family kitchen retains its original brick but adds an eat-in area and bright new cabinets

CURB APPEAL How to Reseal Your Asphalt Driveway

By Christine Tusher

Protect your driveway and keep it looking great by applying new sealer every couple of years. Get the details here

KITCHEN DESIGN The Future of Backsplashes

Grout is out. Continuous sheets of glass, stone, metal and porcelain are saving cleaning time and offering more looks than ever

FLOORS Is Radiant Heating or Cooling Right for You?

By Mariana Pickering (Emu Building Science)

Questions to ask before you go for one of these temperature systems in your floors or walls (yes, walls)

Sponsored

CHC & Family Developments

4 Reviews

Industry Leading General Contractors in Franklin County, Ohio

More Discussions

Any photos of Daltile Valor Gold Quartz

4

Bathroom vanity search

2

Bathroom countertop material

4

wood look Ribbon tile trim

0

Kohler Heated BubbleMassage with Bask tubs

0