Blog Stone Maintenance Tips & Information

Should You Retile or Simply Regout

At Stone Restoration Works, we love tile. From slate tile flooring to a marble tile fireplace surround, it just has so many applications. And while tile itself can last you generations, the grout in between? Not so much. And when you start to see your grout becoming dingy and slimy and damaged, your gut reaction may be to schedule an entire tile replacement. But not so fast! Before you jump to that solution, we want to explain how replacing old grout instead can save you money in more ways than one.

Besides just being an eyesore, cracked and crumbling grout can present serious problems, especially in the shower area. Grout helps to seal off and protect the materials underneath your tile. When that layer of protection fails, it allows room for damaging elements to make their way in, such as water.

For example, if water creeps in behind your shower surround without you noticing, dangerous mold can develop and thrive. On top of that, that water can soak into your studs and other vital elements behind your walls, causing them to rot. All of this can ultimately result in potentially harmful health repercussions and expensive damages. You can save yourself the headache of dealing with all of those issues by simply replacing old grout once you notice it starting to wear.

Particularly when it comes to wet or greasy areas, like the shower or a backsplash, it is worth considering upgrading to epoxy grout. Unlike cement-based grouts, epoxy grout is not porous. Therefore, it is an especially good choice for areas that are exposed to more moisture and grime. Because of its poreless nature, wiping up spills and other gunk is a breeze. In addition, epoxy grout is water resistant. In contrast, traditional grouts can become compromised and weakened if exposed to water for prolonged periods of time. With epoxy grout, you do not have to worry about that at all. So overall, upgrading to epoxy grout can end up saving you money in the long run.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with wanting new tile altogether. But if you love your tile and are just tired of looking at the stained and cracked grout surrounding it, give Stone Restoration Works a call! We can fix whatever grout ailments you are experiencing. Grout cleaning, sealing, and repairing, we do it all.

By Stone Restoration Works 3-5-2020