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A tile floor is a beautiful, durable option for bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-moisture areas of your home. While tile lasts considerably longer than carpet, linoleum, or other flooring, there are some maintenance and repair issues to consider.
Whether you are considering switching to tile, repairing your existing floor, or finding a quality cleaning service, tile professionals offer a range of services. We’ve compiled the answers to your top questions regarding all the stages of tile installation and maintenance. Find out how to inspect your tile and when it’s best to work with a professional for your tile and grout projects.
What Do I Need to Ask My Contractor?
If you’ve never worked with a tiling professional, you likely have questions about your tile floor. Whether you need professional cleaning, repair, or installation services, these are common questions you should ask your contractor:
- How often do I need to clean my tile floor?
- What cleaning products do you use to professionally clean tile?
- What is causing damage or mildew buildup on my tile?
- Does my bathroom grout need to be sealed?
The specific questions may vary depending on the type of project you’re doing. Be sure you understand how to maintain your tile and what to look for before you receive professional cleaning or grout repair services.
Other concerns may arise throughout the process, so work with a contractor who is willing to discuss any questions you may have. It’s important to learn enough so you understand the basics of tile maintenance, what to look for in quality flooring, and the best options for your lifestyle and design vision.
How Do I Know if My Tile and Grout Need to Be Cleaned?
Grout is used to seal the spacing in between tiles, much like mortar is used for a brick wall. Grout projects require skilled preparation, mixture, and application of grout, otherwise water may leak between your tiles and compromise your flooring.
Inspect your grout and look for signs of damage or mildew. Routine cleaning can prevent dirt buildup, but mildew can form on your grout if it’s exposed to moisture for long periods of time. Consider working with a professional to ensure your floor is safely and efficiently cleaned. Just like a plumbing inspection, tile inspection can prevent costly repairs.
Should I Clean, Replace, or Regrout My Tile?
Tile cleaning is one of the most common services for your tile. However, there are times when you may need to replace your tiles or regrout your floor. Here are signs that your grout or tiles have become compromised and need expert repair services:
- Cracked grout
- Chipped tiles
- Loose tiles
- Missing grout
- Significant water exposure under tiles
When in doubt, contact a professional to inspect your floor or other tile area and discuss the best maintenance service for your home. Even minor cracking can allow water to enter your flooring and damage your subfloor.
Tile repair is a home improvement project that’s best left to the professionals. Without careful application, you could create an uneven floor or miss critical sections of grout. A smooth, waterproof surface is difficult to achieve without professional tools and experience.
How Often Should I Have My Tile and Grout Cleaned?
There is no set cleaning schedule that applies to every household. The frequency of cleaning depends on the amount of traffic, type of tile, moisture level, and other factors. Be sure to sweep and wipe down your floor regularly. Continue to inspect it for signs of mold, mildew, or stains. Work with a cleaning service to restore your tile and prevent it from chipping or cracking.
Cleaning is the most affordable maintenance solution. Unlike restoration or replacement, a cleaner can typically work within a small time frame and allow you to use your floor immediately after. It’s also a good idea to conduct regular cleanings between each professional clean. If you wait until dirt or mold compromises your grout, you’ll spend more time and money on a repair service.
Should I Have My Grout Sealed?
While most tile options are naturally waterproof, grout can leak and cause water issues. Depending on the type of grout and tile, you may need to have a sealant applied to your flooring. Ask home contractors about sealant options and be sure they use grout that’s properly sealed to enjoy a reliable waterproof surface.
Without proper sealant, water can become trapped behind tiles, damage your subfloor, and harbor mold and mildew. Sealant is affordable and easy for a professional to apply, so don’t skip this important step and ask your contractors how they previously sealed your tile and grout.
How Long Does It Take to Install New Tile Flooring?
Installing a tile floor requires extensive labor, so it can take time to achieve a flawless finish. Grout repair, sealing, and cleaning services should be relatively quick. However, most grout requires a full 24 hours to completely dry. Discuss quick-drying options with your contractor if you can’t wait 24 hours to use a room or hallway.
As with interior paint, there are many drying time options available. A professional can apply grout far more quickly and efficiently than a homeowner, but there will still typically be a wait time involved.
Ask your contractor for a time estimate if you’re working within a tight deadline. There should be some flexibility, but grout has to have a set period of time before it can be safely stepped on. Don’t touch or walk on your tile floor too early or you may damage your grout.
Enjoy Quality Tile and Grout Maintenance and Repairs
Use these answers to confidently research and select a qualified tile expert. Tile and grout cleaning, repair, and installation services are available in your area and we can help you find them. Connect with a local contractor today to receive a quote and make your vision come to life.