subject: The Importance of Using a Tile Grout Sealer [print this page] A tile grout sealer is a useful formula applied to grout lines to prevent infiltration of dirt and other stains, thereby maintaining the clean appearance of grout. Many people seal grout to protect the tile and prevent debris from soaking in. Just as it is important to use green carpet cleaners and an eco-friendly floor cleaner, it is also important to invest in a green grout sealant as well. An eco friendly sealant will work to make the grout last much longer than a sealant that is chemically based, while ensuring no toxic residues are given off that can harm the environment or those who come in contact with sealed grout surfaces.
The Sealant Factor
Unfortunately, some people believe that a tile grout sealer is not necessary to apply to grout. To understand just why you need to seal grout, examine the grout itself. You will notice that it is rather soft and porous. This means that it will readily absorb different kinds of dirt, grease, and stains. Grout is also where black mold tends to settle most often. When mold settles in grout, it can be very difficult to remove. Since black mold can be harmful, it is important to prevent its appearance completely. For this reason, a tile grout sealer is applied to grout lines to ensure that mold, dirt, and other residues cannot soak into the tile grout and leave stains.
By applying the right type of sealant beforehand, you can prevent a host of grout problems later on. A good sealant will greatly reduce the risk of staining. For instance, if tiles in the kitchen are splashed with tomato sauce, the sealant will ensure the grout is not stained an unpleasant color. Sealants also work to ensure that moisture does not penetrate the grout. If too much moisture enters the grout, it can actually start to lift the tiles, which is why sealing is so important. They also work to prevent spores of molds and fungi from penetrating the grout and taking root there. Sealants also make the process of maintaining the grout much easier. The right sealants can make the cleaning job as easy as a simple wipe-down on a regular basis.
Green Options
Effective eco-friendly cleaning products are no longer relegated to use with only car wash equipment, floor cleaner machines, and green carpet cleaners. There are now green chemical options for virtually all applications, including grout sealing. These green tile grout sealer formulas offer a range of benefits that average, chemical-based sealants cannot provide. Unlike chemically based sealants, eco-friendly ones are plant based, rendering them safe for the environment. This also means there is no risk of the sealant leaving toxic traces or harsh fumes. This is especially important to consider when sealing grout in areas like commercial kitchens, where food is stored and prepared. Other conventional sealants often contain chemicals, which may be harmful if used around edible products.
These eco-friendly grout sealants are composed of nano-particles which form a shield of protection on the grout lines. Not only does this kind of tile grout sealer dry very quickly, it works to actually repel stains and debris, making it that much easier to protect and clean grout. There is no need to bring out the metal brushes and harsh cleaning solutions with such eco-friendly grout sealants at work.
