Tile & Grout Cleaning
Northern Virginia's Experts
Grout Repair
Northern Virginia's Experts
Grout Repair Service in Northern Virginia
Grout is a crucial component in tile installations, but unfortunately, it can fail over time. Cracked / damaged grout not only looks unattractive, it can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
One of the most requested inquiries we receive is for grout replacement. While total grout replacement is desired because it allows for complete color uniformity, there are several drawbacks to this.
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New grout does not bond to old grout. For grout to be replaced old grout needs to be completely removed and then new grout can be installed. Applying new grout over old grout will create what is called overburden grout which over time will flake away creating inconsistency in grout lines and make your tiled area look unattractive.
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When cutting out grout there is a risk of chipping tile or skipping up onto tile which creates scratches. The most experienced tile expert can have this issue.
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The application of new grout never has the same bond as when the tile was initially installed due to the fact that it is incredibly difficult to remove all of the residue from the old grout to allow a good, clean bond for the new grout.
Note: While The Grout Genie does provide spot repair for grout in areas where it may be damaged or missing, we do not recommend complete grout replacement.
If the desire is to achieve complete color uniformity we have other options available that will achieve this result. Please note that should you have missing or cracked grout in areas, this can be repaired properly with new grout and we do provide this spot repair option.
There are several reasons why grout can fail below is a list of the most common reasons:
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Movement in the subfloor. Some contractors during the building of the home will use nails instead of screws when installing the wood subfloor. Because the nails do not have threads, over time the plywood starts to flex up and down the smooth nails allowing for movement of the subfloor, which results in movement in your tile.
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Improper application of thinset create air pockets that allow for "flex" / movement of the tile itself causing the grout to create a crack that travels throughout the floor. Think tectonic plates. The more the tiles come loose, the more cracking / breaking in the grout
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Mixing the grout improperly or failing to apply it correctly, can result in weak or unstable grout that is more prone to cracking or crumbling.
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Use of low-quality materials may lead to grout that is unable to withstand the stresses placed upon it, leading to failure.
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Moisture is another major culprit of grout failure. Grout is a porous material that can absorb moisture, which can cause discoloration, mold growth, and deterioration over time. This is especially true in areas with high humidity or moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
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Wear and tear can also take a toll on grout, especially in high-traffic areas. Foot traffic, cleaning, and other factors can cause grout to become worn or damaged, leading to cracking, chipping, or even complete failure.
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Finally, structural movement can cause stress on grout, leading to cracking or failure. Buildings can experience structural movement due to settling, temperature changes, or other factors, and this movement can cause damage to grout that can be difficult to repair.
Proper maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of grout and preventing failure. Regular cleaning, sealing, and repairs can help prevent moisture from penetrating the grout and damaging it over time. Neglecting grout maintenance can have serious consequences, including the need for costly repairs, safety hazards, and a decrease in the overall aesthetic of the space.
In conclusion, grout failure can be a serious issue, but with proper installation and maintenance, it can be prevented. Regular cleaning, sealing, and repairs can help extend the life of grout and prevent more significant problems from occurring. Contact us today to learn more about grout maintenance and how we can help keep your tile installations looking great for years to come.
PRO TIP! Never, ever apply silicone caulk to your grout lines. While it is easy to apply silicone to those areas, this is an improper way to utilize silicone caulk and it leaves a residue in grout lines which is incredibly difficult to remove in preparation for grout repair.
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We understand that it can be difficult to determine which services you may need for your specific situation. Our highly trained team are here to help. We can evaluate your needs and provide recommendations to restore the beauty of your tile and grout.
Our goal is to provide you with the most effective solutions to meet your needs and ensure your satisfaction.
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