Tile and grout is a common flooring used in bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms. Tile is a durable floor and unlike other flooring, is no match for water. Nevertheless, tile and grout can be severely damaged by water allowing the dry wall and sub flooring to also be exposed and damaged by water. Carpet Care 2000 will share how tile and grout develops water damage and how you can prevent it.
Improper Tile Installation
Water damaged tile and grout more often than not occurs when the tile was improperly or poorly installed. When installing tile, one of the more crucial steps is filling in the grout. If the grout is not mixed right or the grout isn’t installed correctly, it can have gaps or holes where water can seep through. The water that seeps in between the grout will begin to cause mold and water damage from underneath the tile. Over time, tile can begin to fall off and the grout can break apart in chunks. The only answer to improperly installed tile is to remove the old tile and repair the material it was laid on, then properly reinstall. Most improperly laid tile and grout occurs during DIY installation. It is recommended to seek professional help installing tile to prevent water damage.
Problems with Unsealed Tile & Grout
Sealing tile, and particularly the grout, is essential. The sealer not only helps tile and grout look brighter, it helps to keep tile and grout clean, In addition, it also protects the grout. Grout is prone to cracks and will break apart which will allow water to seep through the grout lines and begin to cause water damage. Tile and grout that has never been sealed is prone to water damage, especially those in the bathroom. To prevent water damage to tile and grout, it is highly recommended to have the tile and grout line sealed. Tile and grout sealer will also wear down over time. Sealer will need to be reapplied every few years. Depending on the brand of sealer you use, how long it last will vary. As soon as the sealer begins to show signs of wear, it is time to reseal the tile and grout for long lasting protection.
Improper Grout Mix Ratio
As mentioned previously, improper grout mix can cause grout to weaken or simply break apart very quickly. For those who do DIY tile and grout installation, to avoid running into mixing errors it is recommended to buy a pre-mix grout. For those who mix yourself, often the mix is wrong. One soon finds that the grout will simply break apart or will not fill the grout line correctly. To avoid major water damage to your home tile and grout, avoid using grout that you mix yourself and stick to the pre-mixed grout instead.
Tile & Grout Cleaning, Stain Removal & More in Tracy, Livermore, San Ramon, Dublin, Mountain House, Walnut Creek, Danville & the East Bay of California
Water damage can effect tile and grout and can cause even more damages to material underneath the tile. For tile that is on the wall, keep in mind that drywall cannot get wet. The same goes for wooden sub floors. It is essential to protect your tile and grout from water damages to prevent major water damage to your home. For tile and grout cleaning and sealing services, contact Carpet Care 2000 and schedule our services today.
