Unlike most ceramic and porcelain tiles, grout is a porous material. Over time contaminants will be absorbed into the grout (often transported by water). These contaminates cause permeant staining and discoloration of the grout.
Generally not. If the grout is still in good physical shape then most often, cleaning, coloring, and sealing is all that’s required to get your tile surfaces looking great.
Generally, we will clean the entire tile surface exposing the tile and grout. We will then prep the surface, color, and seal the grout. Any needed repairs or recaulking will be done as well.
Just like anything in your home or business, your tile surfaces require regular care and maintenance. The sealers will wear over time, and may need to be touched up periodically in high traffic or use areas.
The long term care, cleaning, and usage is determined by the owner. The lighter the use and the better care, the longer it will last. In average installations, with proper care, expect years of trouble free use.
Unfortunately No, tile and grout come in many types and materials. Generally, ceramic and porcelain tiles in combination with sanded cementious grouts are great candidates for Northwest Grout Works restoration service.
Unsanded grouts will often require removal and regrouting.
Epoxy and other specialty grouts often require replacing the entire tile surface.
Patching cracked, damaged, or missing grout Reattaching loose or missing tiles.
Recaulking tile joints and changes of plane. (wall corners, back splashes, floor pans, benches, base boards, etc.)
Grout is a brittle material. When very small movements occur in joints and changes of plane, the gout will often crack and fail.
The damaged grout will be removed from these joints and replaced with a high-performance, color-matched, and texture-matched grout caulk for a seamless look.
The caulking seals the joint and provides some flexibility to help prevent future joint damage.
Yes, the color and sealer penetrates the grout surface and creates a very thin protective layer. Your grout will retain its feel and texture.
Every job is different, but most residential jobs are completed in 1-2 days.
Every job is different, but generally the surface can be used within 24-48 hours after completion depending on the material used.
Many factors come into play pricing a restoration project including initial condition, area and layout, and tile size. Please click the “Request and Estimate” link, and fill out the form. We will contact you to discuss your particular project needs and provide a free estimate.
Natural stone (granite, marble, travertine, etc) is a unique material that require special maintenance. Unfortunately we have a very limited service for natural stone, but we are always happy to discuss in conjunction with our other services.