Not only is grout necessary in securing the tiling in your home, it is also establishing itself as a decorative element as new colors are being released to bring an updated look to your rooms. But over time, grout can begin to crack and crumble detracting from the aesthetic appeal of your home and compromising the staying power of your tiles.
Homeowners who want to maintain the grout in their home will do all they can to avoid damage. This article will review the common causes of grout damage so you can take the necessary measures to keep your grout in the best shape possible and avoid grout damage.
Improper Installation
Improper installation is one of the main causes of grout damage. Grout that is not well packed into the joints between tiles will begin to crack and separate over time.
Incorrect Grout Mix
Most homeowners will use a premixed grout formula, but many contractors mix their own grout. If too much water or polymer additives are included in the mixture, it can result in pinhole damage that weakens the structure causing cracks to appear over time.
Moisture
If the grout in your home is exposed to moisture on a regular basis, mold and other fungi may start to form. This is especially common in bathrooms and outdoor areas. Not only can mold and mildew lead to crumbling and cracking, it is also unhealthy for the occupants of the house.
Other Causes of Damage
Heavy foot traffic and harsh chemical cleaners can also cause grout to wear down, crack and crumble. And even if you do your best to care for your grout and tile, damage may occur over time as the materials begin to age.
How to Avoid Grout Damage
Although most grout will wear down over time, there are steps you can take to prolong its lifespan. It’s a good idea to find a contractor you can trust for your grouting needs. Find someone who has been in business for some time and is backed by excellent customer reviews. If a friend or family member can refer someone who they have used, even better.
Hiring an experienced and reliable contractor will help you avoid any problems due to improper installation and incorrect grout mixes. Grout sealing will also help protect your grout. This is the process of applying a sealant to prevent damage due to moisture and other external elements.
If damage has already occurred, you may need to call an expert in. The contractor may be able to reseal the grout, or a grout restoration may be necessary. A restoration involves deep cleaning and recoloring the grout lines and replacing the worn-out grout.
Grout is a useful household product, but it will wear down over time. However, you can minimize damage by hiring a trusted professional for installation as well as any kind of upkeep and maintenance that may be necessary down the line. We would love to be your contractor for your grout and tiling needs.
