Finally, we apply a penetrating sealer (not a topical sealer). This provides stain guarding while maximizing appearance and allowing the tile & grout to “breath” (vapor permeable). Penetrating sealers should be applied every 2-3 years after proper cleaning.

Ceramic or Porcelain tile floors only require the porous grout lines to be sealed. However, Clay, Saltillo and Terrazzo Tiles, are all very porous and need to be sealed along with the grout.

We will determine if the T&G has a topical coating:

Unfortunately, many facilities apply a wax coat thinking this is the way to get a shiny appearance and is proper maintenance. However, the wax just traps all the dirt especially in the grout lines. The wax is absorbed into the grout, and the dirt is packed down. The restoration work required will eliminate this build-up, but it is a tedious task and usually leaves the grout lines blemished from the wax and embedded dirt.

A proper topical finish, or a “glaze” can be applied. If so, efforts should be to clean and maintain this, not the tile and grout.