How Long Does Grout Last: Maintenance Tips

We’ve all seen what old, run-down kitchens and bathrooms look like. Stained grout crumbles away between dingy, cracked tiles. Gaps form, allowing water to seep in, causing rot and mold formation.

Fortunately, that doesn’t have to happen to you. If you live in the Foothills area in and around Tucson, AZ, turn to Steam Smart Pro, the tile and grout cleaning experts in Tucson, AZ. We are ready to help you protect your grout, repair it, or replace it, all for a competitive price.

How long does grout last? The answer is up to you and the choices you make. Grout is not indestructible, and the elements will eventually wear it down. With a bit of forethought, proper care, and the right materials, grout can last for decades.

Tile grout is particularly prone to problems as it ages. It is typically found in places that experience a great deal of moisture, and the color of the grout is often part of an interior design scheme. White grout might provide a pleasing pattern that complements the color of the tile. If the grout turns yellow or brown, it could destroy the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom.

We are glad to help our customers replace old, crumbling grout or fix problems left by other contractors. We also want to ensure that your grout lasts a long time. We offer this guide to grout preservation to help our customers keep their grout looking better for longer.

The Lifespan of Grout

Under the best circumstances, how long does grout last? Grout serves as a filler material between tile or other similar building materials. How long grout will last depends on:

• What the grout is made of
• The grout installation process
• Cleaning and repair
• Proper sealing
• Protection from the elements

Types of Grout

The durability of your grout depends on the type of material used to create it. The two most-used types of grout are cement-based grout and epoxy grout. Within these categories, there are many different manufacturers and products.

Cement-Based Grout

Cement-Based Grout is a common and inexpensive grouting material. One disadvantage of cement-based grouting is that it is not waterproof. The porous material allows water to seep through, eventually leading to discoloration and degradation of the grout. As the grout degrades, more water will seep through eventually, leading to potential rot and damage to wood and other building materials behind the grout.

Cement-based grout can typically last between ten and fifteen years if the owner maintains it properly. To keep grout structurally sound and looking its best, you should seal it to protect it from moisture and clean it periodically.

Improper installation can lead to the grout crumbling and losing its integrity years before it should. Instead of applying grout yourself and running the risk of having to reapply later, have a professional contractor like Steam Smart Pro install your grout and tile.

Epoxy Grout

Epoxy grout consists of resin and materials that cause it to harden when mixed. It is not porous and does not contain any rocky materials that could crumble. As a result of grout’s composition, it can last for decades without discoloring or breaking down. 

Protecting Grout

Grout sealants cover the surface of the grout, preventing water from getting in. These protective coatings can also conceal any discoloration of older grout. Therefore, grout sealants effectively preserve both the function and appearance of either cement-based or epoxy grout. In general, grout sealants don’t last more than a year or two. Plan on having experienced professionals check and replace your grout sealants periodically.

Cleaning Grout

Epoxy grout is generally easy to clean. A vinegar and water solution, dishwashing soap, or lemon water is usually sufficient to clean it. However, professional cleaning could do a better job of removing deep-rooted stains or giving the grout and tile work in your kitchen or bathroom a newer look.

Repairing Aging Grout

Professional grout repair contractors can clean existing grout, remove crumbling grout, and reapply new grout to create a more robust defense against moisture and bring back the luster of your kitchen or bathroom tile. As with grout installation, professional repair reduces the risk of mistakes compared to DIY repair and helps your grout last longer.

Professional Grout Cleaning with Steam Smart Pro

Before installing tile anywhere in your home or remodeling existing tile, it is crucial to understand how to maintain the different types of grout and how to treat them. The expert contractors at Steam Smart Pro can help you

• Choose appropriate grout materials
• Make sure to apply your grout correctly so that it lasts longer
• Advise you on how to be proactive in maintaining your grout as you would any other important part of your home

Book an Appointment or Consultation Today

Learn how professionals clean grout and prevent damage from the experts at Steam Smart Pro. If you are planning a renovation project or need to refurbish an old kitchen, bathroom, or tile installation in your home or business, you deserve to be able to make informed decisions. Work with us at Steam Smart Pro to fully understand how to care for your grout and protect it from damage. If your grout already shows signs of wear, we can tell you if it needs repair or replacement. After any grout cleaning job, we’ll discuss options for quality sealants that can keep your grout looking cleaner longer.

Instead of asking, "how long does grout last?" ask, "how can I keep my grout looking new as long as possible?" The keys to long-lasting grout are quality materials, professional installation, and proper maintenance. Each costs a bit of money, but investment in protecting your home or business now can save you hassles and repair costs later.

Don’t wait for a minor cosmetic issue to become a major repair. Call Steam Smart Pro at 520-416-4308 to speak to a grouting expert about your grout problems or upcoming remodeling projects today.

Author Bio:

Eric Bullard

The owner of Steam Smart Pro in Tucson, AZ, brings over 20 years of invaluable experience in the field of carpet, tile, and air duct cleaning. With a strong dedication to quality and a deep understanding of effective cleaning techniques, Eric consistently delivers outstanding results to his satisfied residential and commercial clients.