What Can I Use to Recolor My Grout?

Grout

• Grout is a porous, cement-based product used to hold tiles together, keep out water and finish off a tiled floor, wall or countertop. It also serves to give additional strength to any tiled surface. Grout comes in two forms--sanded and unsanded. Unsanded grout is used to fill tile joints less than 1/8 inch in width. It is made of Portland cement, pigments and water. For wider joints, sand is added to the mixture to reduce the possibility of shrinking. Both types of grout come in a wide range of color options.

Grout Colorants

• Grout colorants color your existing grout. The colorants are available to match most existing grout colors, and are suitable for use on both sanded and unsanded grout. You can make your grout lighter or darker to suit your décor, or use the colorant to touch up existing areas. Grout colorants are available with an added sealer, allowing you to recolor and seal your grout in a one-step process.

Coloring Process

• Preparing your tile surface for grout recoloring will ensure a more satisfactory result. Repair any cracked or damaged grout and replace any broken tiles before you begin the recoloring process. Allow any new grout that you apply to cure for a few days before starting. Clean the tile and grout thoroughly. If your previous grout has been sealed, the sealer must be removed to allow the new colorant to penetrate. Products for removing the sealer are available. Allow the tile and grout to dry completely after cleaning. Apply the grout colorant to the grout joints using either a foam applicator, small paintbrush or toothbrush. You need to cover the entire surface of the grout for the best results. If the colorant gets onto the surrounding tile, wait for a minute or so for the colorant to set and then wipe the excess from your tiles with a dry cloth or sponge. Grout colorant dries quickly and your floor should be safe for foot traffic the same day.

Tips

• Grout colorant is safe for ceramic and porcelain tiles. Do not use colorant on any unglazed tiles, however, as it can stain the tiles. After applying the grout colorant, wait at least a week before mopping. Recoloring tile is a tedious process. If you are recoloring large areas plan to work in small manageable areas at a time. If your tile is on the floor, you will be on your hands and knees for the entire project. You can purchase knee pads to protect your knees.