Tile floors can be gorgeous and they are great in climates where it gets a little hot. However, the one main downside of tile floors is that the grout can get pretty yucky after a few years. No amount of scrubbing can return it to its previously pristine state and after awhile, it can make the whole floor look badly. There are a few tricks that you can use to make that grout look a lot better, and thankfully, they are all pretty easy.
One of the best ways to get rid of yucky colored grout is to stain it.
If you go to your hardware store, you should find several different types of grout stain available. The colors range from different shades of white to colors that will blend in with your tile. If you have a tile flour in a high traffic area, it is best to try to match the grout to the color of the tile. This will give you several more years of wear and it will not look so run down.
Once you pick your stain, you’ll need to prep the grout before you get started. We recommend inspecting each tile square and looking for any holes or divots that may be present in the grout. If you find any, patch them up and let them dry before proceeding. This will help extend the life of your grout and the stain will look a lot better.
Different grout stains will have different directions, and it is important to make sure that you follow them to the letter. However, there are some general guidelines that can help make the application process a lot easier. After you’ve fixed any grout that needed repairs, completely clean the floor. Little bits of dust and grit will make the stain appear uneven and it is vital to really polish that floor until it shines. We recommend getting a soft cloth and buffing each tile area before you apply the stain for the best results.
Once the floor is completely clean, you’ll be ready to get started. Since you’ll be kneeling for this process, it’s a good idea to have a mat or some kneepads to take the stress off your knees. You’ll need to find a paint brush that is sized correctly for your grout. If in doubt, go a bit smaller to avoid getting the stain on the tile. Empty out a little of the stain into another container to make it easier to get to.
Start brushing the stain on using even strokes. If you overlap a little, use that soft cloth to wipe away any excess before continuing. Make sure that you don’t smear the stain as you move to the next few squares. This is a time consuming process, but it is well worth it. To speed up the drying time, you can put a large fan on the floor. If necessary, you can use more than one coat until the stain reaches your desired color.
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