FIVE CAUSES OF UNHEALTHY GROUT CRACKING

Grout is typically not something homeowners consider as something to treat with special care. It is somewhat of an afterthought, and its only purpose in the minds of many homeowners is simply to hold tile in place and provide a cohesive look to the surface. However, any Chandler tile and grout cleaning company will tell you that grout needs special consideration and care, right alongside your tile and other aspects of your home.

Cracked and crumbling grout is not only unsightly, it can also be dangerous as it exposes the sharp, rough edges of the tiles surrounding it. Hiring a Chandler tile floor cleaning service will not suffice; once your grout begins to crack and crumble away, it is time to call in the big guns as you will possibly need to replace the grout and do a complete Chandler tile floor restoration. To help you avoid this hefty investment, we have compiled a list of five basic things for homeowners to be aware of that contribute to cracked grout.

1 – Inferior Grout

Unfortunately, your grout may be doomed right from the get-go. If the initial installer uses a low-quality grout, such as cement-based, and then a low-quality sealant right after, your grout will begin to suffer almost immediately. Cement-based grout is porous in nature and as such, can easily begin to absorb and trap moisture, dirt, and other debris if not properly sealed. Once these things are trapped inside the porous grout, it will begin to breakdown from the inside out.

2 – Moisture

Moisture is probably the number one enemy of grout. Moisture can easily find its way into the tiniest of flaws in sealant, and will immediately be absorbed and trapped into the porous nature of the grout. Once moisture gets trapped inside, warm temperatures and lack of ventilation will contribute to mold and mildew growth. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also become hazardous for you and your family, especially if it grows in large quantities.

Having a tile shower, kitchen counter, or bathroom sink (all areas of high, constant moisture) can quickly become problem areas if moisture gets absorbed into the grout. If you have tile in any of these areas, be aware of the risk and do periodic checks to be certain your grout is intact and protected.

3 – Poor Sealing

As mentioned, poor sealant is a major contributor to crumbling grout. If a cheap, low-quality sealant is applied initially, it is typically not very durable and before long will begin to break down. This is not always visible to an untrained eye, so poor sealing can be a problem long before it is actually noticed. At that point, it is highly likely that mold and mildew growth has begun, and your grout is compromised. If this is you, it is important to immediately call a professional Chandler grout cleaning service to deep clean your grout and apply a fresh coat of sealant.

4 – Harsh Cleaners

Many homeowners do not realize they may be using a cleaner that is too harsh for their tile and grout. Any acidic cleaner, such as vinegar, can break down sealant and subsequently the grout over time. This will lead to unsightly, cracked, and crumbing grout that must be addressed. It is important to talk with a reputable Chandler ceramic tile and grout cleaning service about proper cleaners to use in your household to protect your tile surfaces.

5 – Time

Time itself can take a toll on grout. Eventually, even if high-quality grout, reputable sealant, and proper cleaners are used, your grout will still begin to crack and crumble over a long period of time. If you are purchasing or living in an older home that has any tile surfaces, it is important to keep an eye on your grout so you know when it is simply aged and needs to be refreshed.

Keep these five factors in mind if you have tile surfaces in your home. If your grout is becoming dingy, discolored, dull, stained, or crumbly, contact the professionals at Desert Tile & Grout Care. We will come to your home, assess the situation, and provide a free estimate for cleaning or restoration services in the Phoenix Metro Area. We are highly skilled, have decades of experience, and carry five-star reviews for excellent service. Give us a call today and know that your grout will be in good hands!