Protecting Your Tile Floor

Did you know that there is an easy way to protect your tile floor from moisture, stains, and mildew? Simply seal your tile grout. After tile is installed and grouted, it is important to seal the grout in order to prevent moisture, stains, and mildew from seeping into the grout. Sealing your grout will also enable you to clean your tile less often since it helps prevent dirt from getting into the grout. Here are the basic steps to seal the grout on your tile floor:

1. Wait a minimum of 48 hours after your tile is installed before you attempt to seal the grout. Some installers recommend that you wait 2-3 weeks before sealing. This helps ensure that the grout is completely set.
2. Use a silicone or water based grout sealer and apply with a paintbrush. You can also buy spray on grout sealer for more convenience.
3. Remove excess sealer from the tile before it has a chance to dry.
4. Allow the sealer to dry for at least one hour.
5. Apply another coat using the steps above. (Some installers recommend a second and even third coat of sealer)
6. To find out if you need a second or even third coat of sealer, test the sealer by dropping a little water on the grout. If the water beads up, no need for another coat. If it doesn't, simply apply more coats of sealer until the water beads up on the grout.

Remember that grout sealer has a potent smell. To avoid the smell, get out of the house for a while until it has a chance to dry and air out. Also, read and follow the directions on the bottle carefully.

For all your Tulsa, OK area flooring needs, contact Jim Ecrette at ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings at 918-252-7711 or prosourcejim@tulsacoxmail.com. Remember to ask for Darryl Baskin's flooring discount.