Protect Tile Flooring

Keep your tile floors looking nice by protecting grout lines from stains. Better Homes and Gardens contributing editor Danny Lipford shows his step-by-step instructions for sealing grout.

By Danny Lipford

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About Ceramic Tile

Laying Ceramic Tile

Stain-Proof Grout

Mix Bleach Solution

Clean Grout Lines

Remove Residue

Liquid Sealer

Applicator Bottle

Apply Sealer

Grout Stain Pen

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How To Seal Grout

Danny Lipford: How To Seal Grout.

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About Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is a durable material that requires little maintenance. The glazed surface of the tile is both hard and resistant to staining. Grout lines between the tiles, however, are made from a more porous material that can become dirty and stained over time if it is not protected with a sealer.

Laying Ceramic Tile

Set ceramic tiles in a bed of thin-set mortar with spacers used to keep them equidistant. Once the mortar has hardened, use a rubber float to fill the joints with grout and wipe off any excess with a damp sponge.

Stain-Proof Grout

Unless a special stain-proof grout was used on your floor when it was installed, the grout lines should be sealed after the grout has fully cured (usually 30 days or more) to prevent future staining.

Get free tile & stone estimates from local professionals.

Mix Bleach Solution

Start by mixing up a mild bleach solution in a bucket to be used to clean the grout lines.

Clean Grout Lines

Use a small scrub brush or old toothbrush and clean the grout lines with the bleach solution.

Get free tile & stone estimates from local professionals.

Remove Residue

Mop the floor and rinse with clean water to remove any bleach residue. Allow the grout to dry thoroughly before applying a clear sealer.

Liquid Sealer

Clear liquid sealer can be found in the flooring department of home improvement centers. If the sealer doesn't come with a built-in applicator, purchase a separate applicator bottle and pour the sealer into it.

Get free tile & stone estimates from local professionals.

Applicator Bottle

Applicator bottles typically come with interchangeable rollers to accommodate grout lines of different widths. Choose the roller that matches your floor and snap it into place on the applicator bottle.

Apply Sealer

Apply the sealer to the grout in a smooth, even line, making sure not to miss any joints. Allow the sealer to dry thoroughly.

Grout Stain Pen

If you waited too long to seal your floors, and the grout lines have already become stained and will not come clean, consider using a grout stain pen. The pen contains both a sealer and stain to impart a uniform color to the grout lines while sealing the grout at the same time. Simply rub the pen on the grout lines and allow it to dry.

Protect Tile Flooring

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