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How to Clean and Seal a Tile Countertop

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Setting tile on a countertop gives it a whole new look and adds value to your kitchen or bathroom. Grout is used to fill the spaces between the tile and it helps hold the tile together. Grout comes in many colors for added pizzazz to your tile countertop. After you grout the tile, you need to clean it and seal it. Here are some tips to help clean and seal a tile countertop.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Remove the excess grout from the tile countertop with a rubber float, while the grout is still wet. Place the float against the grout lines, at a 45-degree angle, and pull the excess towards you. Place the excess grout back in the container. Use a 45-degree angle so that the grout isn't removed from the grout lines. Allow the grout to set up for at least 30 minutes after removing the excess from the countertop.

  2. Step 2

    Fill a bucket with warm water and place 2 sponges alongside the bucket. If the grout that's left on the surface of the tile has lightened in color, it's time to wipe it off. Wet one sponge and squeeze out the excess moisture. Wipe down the surface of the countertop with a light pressure. Rinse the sponge frequently and change to the second sponge when needed. Take care when wiping the grout lines as grout can be removed at this stage. Make sure the sponge is damp and not wet.

  3. Step 3

    Continue wiping the tile countertop until only a haze remains on the tile. When the haze has dried, buff the tile with a clean, lint free cloth. The haze will be removed and the tile will shine.

  4. Step 4

    Seal the grout with the product of your choice. There are many products that will seal the grout and some that will clean and seal at the same time, like the Rejuvenator from Spartan Chemicals. It's important to seal the grout to keep food products from staining and mildew stains from sinking into the grout. Follow the manufacturer directions when you seal the grout or tile. Some manufacturers say that grout can be sealed immediately while others direct you to wait at least 24 hours.

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