Improving the Appearance of Tile and Grout

Sep 12
07:25

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

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Tiled floors are easier to clean and maintain and hardy enough to withstand heavy foot traffic on a daily basis. To improve the appearance of your tile, begin by cleaning it and the grout thoroughly with bleach or a quality product made for tiles.

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Oftentimes daily sweeping and mopping is all you need to keep your tiled floor clean. The only thing that can mar the beautiful look and finish of your kitchen floor tiles will be the grout which can become grimy from dirt and dust buildup as well as food stains.

Even with good maintenance,Improving the Appearance of Tile and Grout Articles grout deteriorates over the years and may become unsightly. Scrape away any loose grout and go just a little deeper than the damaged material, but do not scrape all of the grout away. Leave a thin layer in place so the tiles won't come loose.

Grout is the sealant that is placed in between floor tiles to prevent dirt and moisture from seeping in between and under the floor tiles. As this is made from a different material than the tiles, it can get discolored, prone to mildew and can also absorb dirt and oils. With some elbow grease and regular cleaning you can have clean grout that can improve the look of your floor tiles.

If mold or mildew is a problem, clean with a specialized mold and mildew resistant product and allow it to dry before adding new grout. Choose a color that coordinates with the tile and be sure to follow the application instructions precisely. You can also consult with someone from the store where you purchase the grouting materials or with a representative from a home improvement center for tips.

If the tile and grout are in good shape but you simply don't care for the color, consider painting it. While in the past painting tile didn't work very well, there are now products available that adhere to nearly any surface. There are also specialty paints and primers designed for kitchens and baths that are made to resist mold and mildew. As with any painting project, preparing the surface is essential and consulting with someone in the know for the best choice of paint and primer is a good idea.

Once you have cleaned the grout between the floor tiles, make doubly sure that it stays that way by applying two coats of grout sealant. You can buy the grout sealant at the hardware store. This will keep the grout looking like new. Reapply grout sealant at least once a year.

For more great tips on cleaning your grout and tile,check out our main page here:

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