There are a variety of methods to improve the beauty of your home. From installing a tile floor to remodeling your kitchen, you all have to make use of tile grouts.
So what is a grout?
The main purpose of grouts is to fill between tiles and fit them together. Besides, grout can prevent dirt and bacteria from accumulating in the tiles gap. And grout cleaning is relatively easy, so your tiles always look like new.
However, you need to leave the grout to dry before walking on the floor to ensure their maximum efficiency. If you do not know how long does it take for grout to dry, chances are your efforts in home improvement will be ruined.
The drying time of grout depends on many factors. In this article, I will walk you through the two most critical factors. Then you can answer the question for yourself.
Let’s read on to find out!
Two Factors Deciding The Drying Time Of Grouts
#1 The type of grout in use
This is one of the most significant factors influencing the time needed for grout to fully dry. For ceramic tiles, there are four common types of grout, namely unsanded, finely sanded, quarry-type, and epoxy. You can also find a number of mixed grout available on the market.
So how to know what type of grouts you are using?
Check to manual guide or instructions on their packaging. The manufacturers always inform users of the specific grout type and its drying times there.
Want any tip?
You should allow more time for the grout to get ready for use. For example, leave the floor untouched for one hour or more in case the time written on the package is 30 minutes. This is because the advertised drying time may be applicable in ideal conditions only.
#2 Humidity
Why do we mention humidity here?
For your concern, grouts cure as the moisture evaporates from the materials. If there is too much moisture in the room, it will take grout more time to dry before you can walk on the tiles.
The humidity levels in your house depend on the specific location of your regions. On top of that, indoor plants and flowers also play a role in affecting the humidity as they release moisture into the air.
Do not worry!
You can change the current levels of humidity just by adding an air conditioner or a dehumidifier in the room. Turning on a fan is also a great method to decrease the amount of moisture inside and prevent the curing time of grouts from prolonging.
I have just presented you with the two biggest factors contributing to the drying time of grout. Now I will help you to ensure a successful grout application.
How To Apply Grouts Properly
#1 Make a plan
First, decide on the room you will grout the tiles, whether it is your bedroom, kitchen or bathroom. Then you need to make plenty of preparations before grouting.
Take the bedroom for example. You certainly do not want to walk on the floors after grouting for 10 minutes because you forget your purse there, do you? Remember to take out all the essentials before installing the grouts.
Supposing you intend to re-grout the bathroom, what would you need to do? In this case, the only option is to prepare an alternative room to take a shower in.
#2 Use additional support
What can you use to reduce the time grout take to cure fully?
There is a multitude of household appliances to choose from. You can make use of either an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or electric fan. The reason is mentioned above.
#3 Clean excess grout
Do this step after applying the grouts on the floor for 15 to 30 minutes. Use a wet sponge for maximum convenience and best result. Of course, it is harder to remove already dried grout.
#4 Cover the grout
Sand is one of the main components forming grout. And you know what? Sand is permeable by water. Therefore, you need to prevent water from damaging your drying grout.
Use a brush, roller, or spray to spread grout sealers or latex additives on the surface of the floor. However, you cannot use grout sealers on epoxy grout and non-glazed tiles.
In Summary
We know that how long does it take for grout to dry is the frequently asked question of many homeowners. That’s why today we present you with a detailed answer in this article.
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