Can I Use a Stain to Make My Grout Darker?

Preparation

• Prior to any coloring product being applied, you'll need to thoroughly clean the tile and grout. Use an acid-based cleaner to remove any surface grease, stains or other gunk. The acid cleanser will also remove the upper layer of grout, exposing a clean, undamaged surface which is better for paint and stain. For best results, the paint must be water based flat paint, not enamel, to adhere properly. A damp paintbrush is necessary to apply the color to the grout. The paint should be allowed to dry for 24 hours, then sealed to prevent damage. The coloring process will serve to darken light tile but won’t work as well in reverse.

Cement-based Grout

• The type of grout is key in deciding which kind of coloring agent is needed. Cement-based grout is among the oldest varieties on the market but is no longer the leading option. It fell out of fashion because it had problems as it dried, tended to be inflexible, and suffered from cracks, breaks and inconsistent coloring. A stain or grout color is the best option for this material since it is naturally porous. Once the color has been applied, a layer of waterproof sealant will keep the color looking good.

Epoxy Grout

• Epoxy grout is the most widely used grout in modern construction. It is produced using a combination of resin and hardener and, unlike concrete grout, will resist cracks, breaks and other issues. It costs a bit more than concrete grout but will last indefinitely unless exposed to freezing temperatures. Just about any type of coloring agent will work on epoxy, including flat oil or latex-based paints, stains and grout colors.

Selecting Color

• If grout is damaged, chipped or cracked, replacing the existing material will probably be necessary. Grout is available in a variety of colors; the specific choice will vary depending on the manufacturer. Blending is the process of selecting a color similar to the one that is already present, an ideal choice for situations where just one or two tiles need to be replaced. The most common color options include a color that matches or is similar to the tile. Selecting a color that is in contrast to the existing tile is another option and will create a checkerboard look.