Should Tiled Countertops Be Sealed?
If you love tiles just as much as we do, we’re sure you’ve thought of putting tiles everywhere. What if we told you that you could get a tile countertop too? Tile countertops seem like the rebellious child of kitchen fixtures with all the aesthetic appeal but fail to provide the functionality the user is looking for.
In fact, one of the most heated debates surrounding tile countertops is about sealing. Given that tiles are highly affordable and very durable, matching the appropriate sealing for providing the grout with the same longevity is essential. So if you are considering getting a tile countertop and wondering if you need to seal it, the answer is YES. Here’s how:
Sealing Tiled Countertops
Here are the top three vital elements to consider when going for a tile countertop and having to seal it. These three factors greatly influence both how your countertop looks and provides functionality for you depending on where you place it. We are assuming the tile countertop is commonly placed in the kitchen, so here’s how it works.
✔ Grout and Tile Size
The main concern following tile countertops and grout is that grout becomes a breeding area for germs and bacteria, which can be quite harmful considering we place tile countertops in the kitchen. The solution for this issue is to plan a larger tile size so you have distanced grout joints and, overall, fewer lines in general.
✔ Grout Type
Another concern following tile countertop sealing is choosing the grout type. Epoxy is expensive and non-sanded works best for smaller grout joints (the complete opposite of what we said above). Therefore, our only affordable and functional option is to choose sanded grout. It will take up some upkeep, but it will work alongside the longevity of your tile countertop.
✔ Grout Color
Lastly, people have also become fond of grout color seals for their tile countertops. However, we recommend going for a color grout seal as it not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the tile countertop but is also a more hygienic and sanitary choice for your kitchen. Moreover, it is easier to maintain, too, as you would only need to clean it for hygiene purposes and not because it should “look” clean.
Maintaining Tiled Countertops
Regardless of what material you are using, a countertop would require maintenance. However, tile countertops can take a little more upkeep, given that you want it to stay looking fresh for long and the grout sealing pristine. Hence, a little goes a long way with this one, and if you regularly clean some warm water, it’ll suffice for a long time.
In Conclusion,
It is safe to say that your tile countertop does need to be sealed, and choosing the right tile size, grout type, and the color is crucial to ensure its effectiveness and adequate long-term functionality. So if you are looking for a skilled professional to seal your tile countertop, My Dirty Grout is the perfect place for you. We specialize in all kinds of grout sealing, cleaning, and refinishing services. Our expertise can help you make a better decision for your tile countertops.
Contact us to get started today!