Grout functions basically to seal pavers, tiles, and other flooring materials. Similar to paint or varnish as a finishing product, it can change shade after application once cured and dried. This article aims to address your concerns regarding this issue. We hope our findings prove informative and practical for you.
Most of the time grout appears darker, especially when it's wet rather than dry. The final shade can change depending on the speed at which grout dries. The humidity and temperature in the room where the grout is installed play a role.
Grout is an important aspect of sealing. Various reasons affect the colors of these substances when dried. Proper application ensures the product's aesthetics, durability, and overall function. We are here to help you remedy the problem of darkened grout.
How long does grout take to dry to true color?
The average time that the grout takes to dry is between 24-72 hours. But it still depends on the room's humidity level because it also impacts the grout's color and drying period. And, the type of grout you will use affects the curing time.
Different types of grout and Drying Times
Cementitious Grout
It takes 72 hours for cementitious grout to dry. Usually, this type of grout is used in residential projects. It has a sand-like texture and must be blended with water before use.
A water-retentive ingredient is used in the grout to keep it from absorbing too much moisture. Because of this, cementitious grout takes longer to dry
Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout does not require any sealants, which is why it usually takes only 24 hours before it dries. It is extremely durable and is able to resist stains, grease, and any harsh weather conditions.
Furan Grout
Furan grout's drying period is at least 24 hours. It is similar to epoxy grout when it comes to durability; however, this grout is made of polymers of fortified alcohol.
Process to properly apply tile grout:
It is very important to choose the type of tile grout you will be using. Cement-based, epoxy, and furan grout are the three main types of grout, as we've discussed.
- In preparation, the first step is that the grout lines must be clean. You can use a vacuum to clean them. To protect the adjacent surface or wall trims, make use of painter's tape or plastic sheeting to cover them.
- Mix the grout. Allow the grout to rest for 10 minutes after it has acquired a smooth consistency.
- If it becomes too hard, mix it again until it reaches the appropriate consistency. Read the manufacturer's directions to be sure you're doing it correctly. When combining, use as little water as possible to produce a smooth consistency and strength.
- Apply the grout to the tiles, working it into the joints as much as possible. If you're working on a wall, hold the grout at a 45-degree angle and start at the bottom and work your way up. Apply the grout diagonally with sweeping motions.
- Finally, clean any grout that has come into contact with the tiles. You must clean the grout excess with a grout sponge, and wipe it. Make sure that the sponge is just damp, not wet.
Why is my grout drying in different colors?
Too much water is frequently the cause of incorrect grout color. Mix the grout mortar according to the manufacturer's instructions.
In addition to mixing the grout according to the package directions, don't use too much water to clean up excess grout. After that, you will need to wipe up the excess with a damp mop.
If you use too much water on the sponge, the grout will be diluted and the color will be affected. Instead, thoroughly rinse out the sponge before continuing.
Time issues can affect the color if applied at different times. The grout sometimes will appear to be a different color when drying. Once the one area is completely covered, we must prepare another mixture to complete the next area. In this situation, the color variation could be an optical illusion induced by the time interval.
Examine the color once the entire surface has dried. Grout works best when it is newly prepared, most tile installers will only create enough grout to use within an hour. If the grout remains in a different color, there may be a problem with the grout mortar.
How can I get my original grout color back?
Grouts do darken over time because of several reasons, such as the existence of mold and mildew, the area’s humidity level, and because it is already seasoned.
There is an easy way to get back the original color of the grout. Learn how to clean the grout, apply the degreaser, and restore its luster. You can remove deeply ingrained grease and scum stains that compromise the grout color by simply using a grout degreaser and a hard brush.
How to clean the grout:
- Sweep any loose dirt, items, or food particles off the tile and grout surfaces
- Mix a gallon of water with two ounces of heavy grout degreaser to make the degreasing agent.
- Fill a clean plastic spray bottle halfway with the degreaser mixture and liberally spray it on the grout you want to restore.
- Scrub the grout with a hard bristle plastic brush to remove stains. For stubborn stains, spray the grout with the degreaser and scrape it again.
- Rinse. Mop the floor with a small bucket filled with clean tap water. Allow the tile to dry completely before mopping to remove any remaining degreaser.
Can you use bleach to whiten grout?
You can use bleach to clean the grout; however, we must be very careful. There are still few factors to consider while cleaning the grout between your tiles with bleach.
If you use bleach to clean your colored grout, it can fade the color, make it uneven, or even remove the cover if you don't use it properly. Bleach on colored grout should be avoided at all costs. Bleach can also cause the grout to deteriorate, causing it to crack and crumble.
In Conclusion
Keep in mind the process and methods of applying grout to prevent darkening, changes in color, and any future damage and issues associated with this substance. Remember that proper maintenance ensures the overall quality and longevity of this product. We hope you have found this article informative and helpful.
Interested in more grouting tips? Check out how you can color-coordinate your grout and tiles: