Choosing the best grout sealer should be anything but a nerve-racking process. Aside from distinguishing color and effectiveness, everything else should be practically seamless. However, with the array of products available on the market, things can get a little overwhelming.
In this quick guide, we will attempt to narrow down a few of the top models on the market for you.
Table of contents
Choose the Right Type of Grout Sealer
Effectiveness
While I cannot vouch for all grout sealers, all factors considered, we have handpicked some of the most effective products there are out there. All you have to do is pay close attention to efficiency in sealing the grout and other surfaces.
Function
Before buying a grout sealer, you have to ensure that it has other functions other than just merely being a grout sealer. Of course, the number one priority is ensuring that it’s an effective grout sealer but since you’re going to churn out money for it might as well be worth more than that. Probably act as a sealant for other surfaces such as cement, marble, and stone perhaps?
Longevity
When it comes to grout sealers, you no doubt want it to serve you for about 3-5 years at the very least. Anything but and you’re just wasting effort and money on cheap grout sealers that can barely stand the test of time when it boils down to it.
Best Grout Sealer Brands
Tuff Duck Granite Grout and Marble Sealer
Tuff Duck makes some one of a kind tools and the Tuff Duck Sealer is no different. This non-acidic sealer works well on both grout and stone and provides a protective cover that’s impervious to both water and oil-based stains.In addition, the non-acidity of this compound allows it to be used on marble too.
There’s just one oddity about it though, for a penetrating sealant the Tuff Duck lacks longevity. This means that you might have to part with a couple more bucks for maintenance than most other sealants available out there.
What We Liked
- A single quart covers about 800 square feet.
- It’s fairly easy to use.
- It is specially formulated to protect against water and oil-based stains.
- It is compatible with limestone, marble, sandstone, granite, travertine, terrazzo, slate and other porous stone surfaces.
What We Didn’t Like
- You have to reapply periodically.
Aqua Mix Grout Sealer
Although the Aqua Mix may not look like much at first, it is the perfect grout sealer if you’re looking to do a wide array of applications. Apart from being a renowned brand that has introduced multiple product lines, it doubles up as an interior application and exterior application making it a great all-around product for just about anywhere you’ve laid your favorite tile within the home.
Aqua also seems to have given a lot of thought to effectiveness and cost-effectiveness when coming up with the grout sealer to make it all the more appealing to customers.
What We Liked
- The formula can last up to 5 years.
- It makes a great routine cleaner against grease, food stains, oil and more.
- It’s easy to apply.
- It doesn’t change the grout color.
What We Didn’t Like
For the price, Aqua was more than generous with the features incorporated.
StoneTech Grout Sealer (.946L)
Apart from being a historically reliable brand, the Stonetech grout sealer is one of the few grout sealers that actually removes stains well. It is one of the toughest sealants that you’ll find out there and at quite a low cost too. Which is a plus? However, it takes quite a bit of work to lay down since you have to do about three to four liberal coats.
What We Liked
- It stays clean longer.
- It includes advanced water based fluorochemicals that protect against oil and water-based stains.
- It can be used both indoors and outdoors.
- It’s quite easy to use.
- A single quart covers about 150 to 250 square feet.
What We Didn’t Like
- Some customers complained that the sealant darkened the hue of their grout.
Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Sealer
The Black Diamond UGS is a one of a kind sealer made with premium quality materials with the ability to resist stains.
What We Liked
- It’s easy to use.
- It inhibits the growth of mildew and mold.
- It provides a long-lasting barrier against stains.
- It covers an area of about 200 to 500 square feet per pint.
What We Didn’t Like
We didn’t have any complaints about this particular product.
Miracle Sealants GRT SLR 6-Ounce Grout Sealer
Talk about a grout sealer on a budget…
With the Miracle Sealants GRT SLR 6-Ounce Grout Sealer, you pay a whole lot less for a lot more value. It comes highly recommended across the board by both novice DIYers and contractors alike and is able to handle just about anything. In addition, it dries off completely leaving a smooth surface that you can feel.
Make no mistake though;the changed texture is not really everyone’s cup of tea. Not to mention the fact that it’s oil-basedmeans that you might just have to grab a bottle of mineral spirits to clean up the excess when you’re done to avoid any problems that may arise due to overly applying.
What We Liked
- It is weather resistant.
- It comes with a convenient applicator bottle and applicator tip.
- It’s safe and easy to use.
- It can be used both indoors and outdoors.
- Each 6-ounce bottle provides coverage of about 60 to 115 square feet.
What We Didn’t Like
- You’ll need to apply about two coats for good water repelling.
- It can be a bit messy.
- Some customers complained that it flowed everywhere and changed the color of the grout to a much darker hue when it ran and dried.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: After how long should I reseal the grout?
A: While different manufacturers have different recommendations for their products, the Tile Council of North America recommends that you seal your grouts after every two years.
Q: Is it important to seal the grout in the shower?
A: Yes. It most certainly is. This is because they have porous materials which absorb water when wet. This water eventually gets to the adhesive material which breaks down when wet. This causes the tiles to sag and eventually peel off. Sealing it helps prevent absorption of any moisture or water.
Q: How do I seal the shower walls?
A: First off, you need to clean the grout with clean water then wipe the tile and grout making sure it dries off completely. Wait for about 24 hours before you apply the grout seal. Apply the grout seal and wait for it to dry before using the bathroom.
Q: Do you have to use a grout sealer?
A: Not quite. The truth is, not every type of grout needs to be sealed and more so if you’re dealing with the non-porous kind of grout like the epoxy grout.
Q: Is there a waterproof grout sealer?
A: I’ll go ahead and put this in the realm of possibility because there are grout sealers that are impervious to moisture and water but as far as I know no matter what you do moisture, water and steam will eventually get through the grout.
Final Thoughts
If I were taking up a project and were to shop for the best grout sealer as a result, I’d go with the Tuff Duck Sealer. I like it because of its simple but efficient purchase that provides value for money at a fairly low price. It is easy to use and is compatible with most surfaces too.
