Frequently Asked Tile Installation Questions
You will find the answers to many common tile installation questions and concerns on this page. We hope that these frequently asked questions help answer any questions that you may have, or clear up any misconceptions about the installation process, or caring for your new tile.
- Do you install other materials besides tile?
- Yes. In addition to tile installation, we are experienced installers for granite, stone, slate and marble. You can see examples of some of the projects we have done on our Project page.
- Do you do tile restoration and repairs?
- Yes, we can restore, repair and update tile floors, fireplaces, backsplashes, tubs, showers etc.
- If I am unhappy with the current shower pan, can you fix that?
- Yes. If you are not happy with the original fiberglass shower pans or your standard tub/shower's we will customize your own shower pan to fit your needs. We also specialize in a variety of custom mud work such as shower mud pans and floating floors etc.
- How long will my project take?
- This will depend on the size and scope of the project. However, smaller jobs are often completed within one day.
- Can I change my grout color?
- Yes. Our stain/sealing process allows you to change grout from light to dark or dark to light with 100's of colors and shades to choose from. Save thousands by updating an old tile area instead of replacing it.
- Should I seal my grout and tile?
- Although grout does not NEED to be sealed, it is a wise choice. Grout is porous, and without protection it will begin absorbing dirt and grime immediately after installation. Even with regular mopping this can leave your grout color uneven and dirty.
- How long does it take for the grout to dry?
- Allow 2 hours before light foot traffic. Keep grout dry for 7 days after initial clean-up. Avoid scrubbing grout for 20 days.
- How should I maintain my ceramic tile?
- Ceramic tile should be maintained using a neutral PH tile and grout cleaner. Harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia and vinegar should be avoided and can damage grout.
- Does grout have to be cleaned before stain/sealing?
- New grout is ready for protection 10 days after installation and does not need to be cleaned first. On older tile areas, the grout joints must be clean and free of dust, dirt, grease, oil, sealers, or coatings of any kind.
- What type of grouts can and can't be stain/sealed?
- Our stain/sealer is designed to be used with all sanded and non-sanded cement type grouts. Because the stain/sealer is a water based acrylic, it cannot be used over epoxy based grouts.
- How long will the Grout Color Sealing process take?
- Color Sealing Protection can usually be applied in 3 to 6 hours depending on the size of the surface being sealed.
- How long after the Grout Color Seal has been applied before I can walk on the floor?
- The floor is ready for light foot traffic in just 2 hours. Of course, walking on the tile and avoiding the grout joints allows you access to every room right away.
- What is the curing time for the Grout Color Seal?
- The protection will take 2-3 weeks to fully cure. During this curing time the grout should be kept dry. Spills should be wiped up and the floor may be spot cleaned but mopping should be avoided.
- How long does the Grout Color Seal Protection last?
- If the tile and grout are maintained properly, the protection will typically last up to 10 years, or more.
- How long does new grout need to dry before the Grout Color Seal can be applied?
- The grout should dry 7-10 days before being protected with the Grout Color Seal.
- How is the Grout Color Seal applied to the grout?
- We brush the Grout Color Seal protection into each grout joint by hand, usually with a toothbrush. We then remove all of the excess sealer from the tile. Next, we carefully inspect the floor and hand buff the tile to ensure both quality and a streak free surface.
- What is the Seattle Grout & Tile's warranty?
- We guarantee all of our work for one year against defects in materials and craftsmanship.
- Can the Grout sealer match my grout color?
- Perfectly. Our Color Seal is tinted to match all of the grout manufacturers colors, and can even be custom matched to fabric and carpet.
- Can I change the color of my grout lines?
- Yes you can! We can change the look of your grout to match new decor or simply to update the look of your home. We have almost 400 colors to choose from!