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Grout is a type of filler used to fill the gaps between the tiles after laying the tiles. Grout renders a finished and even look to the surface. However, grout is often susceptible to mildew growth and staining. As a result, the grout which once was white and shiny turns black and dirty. One way of restoring the appearance of grout is by grout staining. This method not only cleans and renews the appearance of grout, but also helps you to stain the grout in the color of your choice. More on grout paint. Grout Staining Grout staining can be done on freshly grouted tiles as well as old tiles. While applying grout stain to freshly grouted tiles, one must give ample time for the grout to cure. Usually, a period of 30 days is enough for the grout to cure. Choose the color of your choice from the several grout stain colorants available in the market. Darker shades of grout stain prevent the grout from looking dirty, even if it accumulates dirt and grime. This considerably reduces the maintenance for grout. Lighter shades of grout stain give a sophisticated and clean appearance to your flooring. Grout stains are available in hardware stores and mostly come with an applicator kit. You will also need a narrow hard bristled brush, a scrub pad or wash cloth. However, before you apply grout stain you should thoroughly clean the old grout with the help of a domestic cleaner and a brush. Allow it to dry properly before staining it. Using a narrow brush, carefully apply the stain to the grout and then rub it with a scrub pad. Use a wash cloth to remove any excess stain or spillage. Most of the water based stains successfully prevent the grout from staining and getting damaged, by acting like sealants. For grout stained with oil based grout stains, you can use another product as a sealant. More on tile grout colors. Grout Sealing Grout is a mixture of mortar, cement, sand and water, which results into a porous, elastic substance after drying. Due to its porosity, it is very much capable of attracting dirt and grime. It also creates a conducive environment for the growth of mildew and bacteria. A good solution to this problem would be to seal the grout. Even after you stain it, the dye does not necessarily prevent the growth of mildew. Sealing the grout not only closes the pores of the grout, but also renders it a shiny appearance. Grout sealers are available at local hardware shops. Among other tools and materials, a narrow artist's brush or roller bottle and a wash cloth are a must. Make sure the stain has been properly cured, before you apply the sealant to the grout. Apply the sealant to the grout with the help of a brush. Cover the whole of the flooring in this way and allow it do dry for 30 minutes. If you wish, repeat the procedure, so as to make sure you don't miss any gaps. Alternatively, you can also use a roller bottle which has a brush at the tip, to seal the grout. This is a fast and more efficient method of grout sealing. Simply, turn the bottle upside down and draw a thin line of sealant with the tip. Cover the area and repeat, if necessary. Tile grout stains are particularly useful for marble or granite tiles, as they have porous structure. You can also seal these tiles to reduce their porosity and give them a shiny appearance. Thus, grout stains can keep your grout shining for several years. For more discussion of this topic, check the links below: tile and grout cleaner south auckland
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