Nobody likes moldy, nasty and smelly grout in the shower of the house. Because the grout works like a grunge magnet, it attracts moisture and mold back, residue from soap, dirt, lime residue and hard water stains, so use of a tile sealer is necessary.
Humidity
The most important positive factor in determining whether to seal the grout in a shower is lowered to moisture. Water in the shower brings minerals, salt, chlorine and bath products associated with the use of a shower. The grout sealer in a shower blocks the water and moisture that carries all these products.
Wear and Tear
As with all cement products, grout is in a heavily used area such as a shower and it decomposes after years of rigorous use. There is no area other than the kitchen in your house used more than your shower, so sealing grout in a shower adds years of longevity to this key area of the typical house.
Application
The manufacturers recommend that it should be 48 hours before applying new grout sealer while the previous grout should only be dry to apply the sealant. Application simply involves the use of a sponge, brush, cotton towel cushion paint or spray to apply the grout sealer.
Maintenance
A suitable grout sealer applied periodically reduces cleaning maintenance. The companies suggest grouting in the shower biyearly or annual to retain the grout sealer in effective condition. They also warn against using abrasive chemicals and cleansers while some companies provide proper grout cleaning products that will not hurt it. When you intend to buy it, it is recommended that you read some more reviews and then buy one.
Tips to Fix the Shower Tile Grout
Tile grouting creates a clean, finished look on tiled shower surfaces and helps to keep the tiles in place. Unfortunately, grout lines are subject to cracks and fractures, particularly in new construction due to the dryness and sedimentation of building materials. Broken grout does not have to mean replacing tiles, however, as repairing cracks in shower areas is an easy DIY project for homeowners.
Instructions
- Mix grout sealer with water in a large, shallow container according to the package instructions.
- Excavate loose grout from the broken area with the tip of a nail. Run the tip of the nail along the areas of stable grout to mark the surface slightly.
- Prepare a tablespoon of slurry mixture on the trowel and apply in the repair area at a 45 degree angle, applying pressure to work the mixture on the grout joints.
- Swipe one finger through wet grout lines to create a smooth surface and allow the grout to dry for half an hour.
- Wet the sponge with water and clean the entire surface of the tiles to remove excess grout.
- Allow the grout to dry for three days. Do not use the shower during this time as excess moisture prevents properly cured grout.
- Cut the tip of the silicone sealant nozzle at a 45 degree angle with a razor. Hold the nozzle at a 45 degree angle to the tile surface and squeeze the bottle to apply a thin layer of grout sealant and allow the sealer to dry for 24 hours before using the shower.