One of the most frustrating household maintenance issues is Grout – We take a look closer look at your maintenance options.

Why is cleaning grout so difficult?

Tile-and-grout floors have become quite popular over the years. Unfortunately, we have been told that these floors are virtually maintenance-free except for an occasional mopping, which is not the case.

The necessity of cleaning grout has frustrated many homeowners, builders and contractors. After all, the appearance of the grout directly reflects on the cleanliness of the floor as well as on the individual maintaining it

Why is grout so hard to clean? Grout is a mixture of cement, water and differently sized aggregates. Because grout is a porous substance, microscopic pores allow dirt to become trapped below the surface, where regular mopping cannot remove it. Dirt continues to build up inside these pores, leaving the grout looking discoloured and dirty.

What are my options for grout cleaning?
•Floor finishes and waxes can be used once a floor has been sealed. They keep dirt and contaminants away from the sealer, tile and grout joints. As time and traffic levels dictate, floor finishes and waxes are made to be removed and reapplied.
•Neutral cleaners, which have a pH of 7 (neutral), are neither acidic nor alkaline. Certain wetting agents and detergents within them emulsify grease and oils. Neutral cleaners are recommended for regular cleaning, as they will not affect tile or grout, and also can be used as general “all-purpose” cleaners.
•Acids, which have a pH less than 7, are available in various types. However, acids do not clean. For years, muriatic acid has been used and recommended as a cleaner. But in fact, muriatic acid is a dangerous acid that can destroy and discolour grout joints, tile work and surrounding finishes. It should only be used as a last measure and with great caution. Phosphoric and sulfamic acids are much more user-friendly and should be considered if an acid is necessary.

It is a common misconception that vinegar can’t hurt the surface of glazed tile or grout. Yet vinegar (with a pH level of 3.3) actually has a higher level of acidic level than rainwater (with a pH level of 5.3). In fact, many common acids – such as fruit juices, wines and soft drinks – can damage marble and the glaze of various glazed tiles. In general, acid spills should be avoided; if an acid spill occurs, immediately wipe it up to prevent or minimize damage to the tile’s glaze or polish.
•Citric solvents have appeared in the marketplace recently as an alternative to petroleum solvents for removing synthetic coatings and films. These user-friendly, citrus-based solvents are able to remove grease, tar, paint, crayon, ink, heel marks, lipstick and epoxy films.

What if my grout needs more than cleaning?

Today, coloured sealers are available as an alternative to removing grout. Though using coloured sealers may be labour-intensive, it is more controlled than replacing.