I just tiled the bathtub alcove and it came out great. Now I need to seal the grout. My question is, do i seal just the grout lines or do I apply the seal on the tiles and the grout?
Thank you.
Tile – Do I seal just the grout or the tiles and grout
ceramic-tilegroutsealingtiling
Related Solutions
You want to apply a penetrating grout sealer. This one says that it last up to 5 years depending on conditions.
The key for the sealer to last as long as possible on a backsplash is to avoid cleaning it with "harsh cleaners" like bleach and antibacterial sprays. You want to use something that is not going to remove the grout sealer when cleaning the backsplash. They sell specific cleaners that are easy on the grout at the tile shops, but I have read that just using diluted white vinegar works.
Use anti-bacterial water sealed silicone. The reasons being that if you use grout then expansion in the tiles can cause the grout to crack along that tile line. Also caulk will get very grubby quickly. Silicone allows expansion and doesn't get grubby like caulk
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Best Answer
This greatly depends on the type tile you have. If it is a manmade tile such as porcelain, or ceramic, then you don't have to worry about sealing it.
Most natural stone tiles, especially softer or water permeable stone such as marble, limestone/travertine, and slate should be sealed as well. This would ideally be done prior to grouting to prevent the stone from being stained by the grout. It would also be a good idea to use an unsanded grout with natural stone, especially marble because the sand from the grout could leave scratches in the surface.