grout colorant

[Jen43]

I love the tiles in my kitchen and hallway although the grout is getting dirty looking in areas and I would like to change the colour of my grout to a few shades darker.
I originally used a product calles Ceramaseal(water based acrylic)sealer.
Do I need to remove the sealer first before using a colorant?
Kind Regards LOVE your Forums

[Sponsored Links]

[davem]

Hello Jen, thanks for Loving the forum. :p

I don't know your answer, but I'm anticipating some questions from those that do. How long ago did you seal? When you put water on the grout joints, do they darken immediately or does the water seem to bead up a bit?

[doitright]

Hi Jen, Welcome :)

Ceramaseal was an excellent sealer. Dave pointed out some good questions to consider to get us started.

For a grout colorant application to be successful, a good bond is critical.

One addtional test is to purchase the grout colorant you had in mind, thoroughly clean the grout, and try a test strip. Allow to dry overnight, apply some masking tape, and try to lift the sample off the grout. If it sticks, you're in good shape. ;)

[Jen43]

I sealed the tiles 5 years ago and the water still beads a bit!..I will take your advice and let you know how a sample of colorant works.
I have even had the notion to re-grout but I will leave that as a last resource !...This is a 200 sguare ft. area (kitchen & hallway)!..:eek:

[doitright]

Hi Jen,

I have a feeling you're going to have to try to break down the sealer. Let us know how the test works. I completed a job that had some sealer that was remaining, as was able to touch up the problem areas afterwards. ;)