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Tile & Grout Maintenance & Repair
"We Get Rid of the UGLIES"
410-610-7437

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FAQ's

Cleaning Tile & Grout
Re-Grouting
Sealing Grout

Tile Repair
Re-Caulking

Mildew

 

RE-GROUTING 

Why Re-Grout? 
A sure sign that you are in need of re-grouting will be the cracked, missing or mildewed grout you presently have. Hopelessly stained, missing or crumbling grout between tiles not only looks bad, but can allow water to accumulate and damage the tile substrate. Mold and mildew attaches to grout because it is a porous surface, staying continually wet. Mildew is usually black but can appear red, pink or green. Re-grouting and sealing the new grout will help prevent water penetration and staining. This also extends the life of the grout. 


Q. What is grout?

A.
grout (grout) n. 1.a. A thin mortar used to fill cracks and crevices in masonry
The grout is the substance between the tiles. Often times this substance between the tile (grout) becomes dirty or discolored and in turn makes your entire tile job look old and dingy. With a fraction the cost of replacing the tile we can Re-grout it and make it look like new again. 

Q. What is Re-Grouting?
A.
Re-grouting is a process where we remove the old grout, either by using a grout removal tool or with a power grinder, then replace the area with new grout. 

Q: What do I do if I find some grout or caulk has opened up?
A: Make sure you call us to fix this problem or fill it yourself. A small hole that allows water to get behind your tile or tub can over a period of time, even a short time, make this seemingly insignificant problem into a huge mess and a costly repair. It is a good idea to stop once every month and eye-up the entire shower looking for holes or openings. These minor problems can be fixed with a minimum of effort but left alone can become a real problem. If you think your grout is failing you should have it re-grouted. Give us a call, we'll take care of it for you.

Q: Why is my grout cracking?
A: If you have an older tile installation and the grout keeps disappearing you may have a problem. If you tap on the tiles and hear a hollow sound this means that the surface below the tile has deteriorated and the tiles have lost their bond. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, try resetting the tiles yourself or call us and we will do the job for you.

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Sealing Grout

Q: What is a sealer and should I seal my bathroom tile?
A:
The sealer is a liquid that is applied to the grout about 2 days after the grout work is done. Once it is applied it soaks into the grout and dries creating a protective barrier against water and dirt. We strongly recommend you seal your grout and tile after it has been newly re-grouted or any new tile installation. It can greatly extend the life of your grout and even make it easier to clean as the dirt will tend to float on the surface rather then penetrate deep into the grout. We can also steam clean your grout for like new appearance and then seal it for results that last.

Q: How often should I seal my grout?
A:
To protect your tile and grout you may want to perform regular maintenance including steam cleaning or regular cleaning a few times a year. It is also very important to visually inspect your entire area for any missing or cracking grout or caulking. You should fix any such failing caulk or grout right away. If you like, we can come in and power clean your walls, tend to any missing grout or caulk, making sure your walls are safe from any leaks. We will then re-seal your grout. Feel free to call about this service.

Q: How do I keep my shower looking clean and new?
A: If you are going to clean it on your own the most effective way of all is to simply dry the walls and tub with a towel after every use. By doing this soap scum and hard water will have no chance to build up. Mold can only grow in a high moisture environment so if you dry it you should have no problems with mold. Another good method is to use a shower squeegee to dry the walls after your shower. 

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Tile Repair

Q: I have some damaged wall tile. Do I have to replace my whole shower?
A:
In most cases absolutely not! 95% of the time we can simply do an isolated wall repair.  Often we can reuse the original tile or incorporate a unique design using decorative tile to blend the newly tiled section. Many of our customers have actually found the new look more attractive then the original work. We will be happy to give you a free on site estimate and help you decide what is right for you. 

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Caulking

Q: What do I do if I find some grout or caulk has opened up?
A: Make sure you call us to fix this problem or fill it yourself. A small hole that allows water to get behind your tile or tub can over a period of time, even a short time, make this seemingly insignificant problem into a huge mess and a costly repair. It is a good idea to stop once every month and eye-up the entire shower looking for holes or openings. These minor problems can be fixed with a minimum of effort but left alone can become a real problem. If you think your grout or caulking is failing you should have it re-grouted or re-caulked. Give us a call, we'll take care of it for you.

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Cleaning

Q: Why does my grout get so dirty? 
The main reason for grout to get discolored is dirty mop water over a period of time will turn/stain even the lightest colored grout dark. These stains are very hard to remove as well as being an excellent breeding ground for bacteria, mold & mildew.

Q: How do I keep my shower looking clean and new?
A: There are a few tried and true methods you can use but first, remember that we offer a full cleaning & maintenance service for your shower. We will be happy to come in and periodically steam clean or power clean your shower for like new results.

If you are going to clean it on your own the most effective of all is to simply dry the walls and tub with a towel after every use. By doing this soap scum and hard water will have no chance to build up. Mold can only grow in a high moisture environment so if you dry it you should have no problems with mold. Another good method is to use a shower squeegee to dry the walls after your shower. 

Why Clean and Seal Your Tile Floor? 
Tile floors develop traffic patterns in the grout joints, similar to pathways on a carpet. Once the floor has been cleaned and rinsed, a clear, penetrating sealer is applied to protect grout joints from future discoloration without changing the appearance. This also extends the life of the grout. 

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Mildew

Q: There is a lot of dark mildew on the grout in our shower.  How can I clean the grout?

A: Once you have mildew you will always have to battle it. Mildew sends out millions of tiny spores (seeds) that can lie dormant for a long time. Mildew are pesky little creatures that thrive on moisture and microscopic particles of organic materials - soap, shampoo, body oil, skin particles, etc.

In order to minimize the future growth of mildew on the grout, take away its nutrients and moisture. Rinse the walls when you are done showering and then run a shower squeegee over them. It only takes about 30 seconds. Leave the shower curtain or door open to hasten the drying time.

Cleaning: You will need a good scrub brush, chlorine bleach, white vinegar, rubber gloves, and tub and tile cleaners that are effective for cleaning grout. 

Call us, we specialize in Tile & Grout Cleaning

 

 

                                        

 


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Ugly Grout Blog 


410-610-7437
(Maryland)
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Got UGLY Grout?
Call Us... We Get Rid of the UGLIES!

Tile and Grout  Maintenance & Repair

Tile Repair, Re-Grouting, Grout Cleaning, Coloring, Grout Sealing & New Installations


New Tile Installations are also available and we will help you with the layout and design of that
special project.  We have over 35 years experience and have a list of very satisfied customers. 


CALL US for a special Tile and Grout Inspection 
at your home or property at NO CHARGE


Estimates are ALWAYS FREE 

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Last Updated: Sunday, February 23, 2014

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