Once upon a time, grout choices were limited. It was basically white or white, with minimal options for interesting shades and tones.

Now all that is changing. Grout is available in every color imaginable. This opens up doors for creating complimentary tones or contrast with the tiles in your home.

If you have plain old white grout and are looking to change things up, there are several options available. But many will be reluctant to go through the trouble of replacing their grout for a simple upgrade in aesthetic.

Fortunately, there is a way to change your grout color without replacing it completely. Read on to find out what’s involved.

How to Change the Color of Your Grout

Changing the color of your grout will only work if you have traditional ceramic or porcelain tiles. If the tiles are unsealed natural stone, the colorant will stain the tiles.

It’s also important to find a colorant that works best on the grout in your home. For example, some colorants do not work well on epoxy grouts. Others will not be effective on grout that has not been sealed.

However, most colorants will work on any type of grout and have sealing properties built in.

Colorants are available in two basic categories. You can purchase a coloring pen that will allow you to paint the new color into the grout lines. While these are easy to use, they are not as effective as colorants that can be brushed into the grout lines.

The colorant can then be wiped off the tiles with a sponge.

Note that you will get better results if you paint over light colored grout with a darker colorant. Going from dark to light is possible, but it will take several coats.

Changing the color of the grout requires the following steps:

Clean the grout with a neutral cleaner and brush.
Test the colorant on an inconspicuous part of the floor. Allow it to dry, then examine its quality in terms of texture and color.
If all goes well, mask off the surface of the tiles. This is not required, but it’s recommended as it will limit the amount of colorant that gets on the tiles.
Apply colorant- Colorant may be applied with a grout pen or a stiff brush such as a toothbrush. Work the paint into the grout forcefully while avoiding getting too much on the tiles.
Use a sponge to wipe the excess colorant off the tiles.
Many colorants have a built-in sealer, but if yours does not, you may need to seal it after the fact. Seal according to manufacturer directions.

If you want a new look for your tile and would rather not DIY, Grout Experts can help. We can recolor your tile or change it out for a more lasting result. Call us for all your tile and restoration needs.

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