Sealed Tile Doesn't Seem Sealed

[DRD]

Less than one month ago I had a bathroom wainscoting and shower completed with sanded grout lines. I already have two problems. The first problem is that grout lines on the bottom of the shower are already discolored in certain areas. The second problem is that I have some small cracking in certain areas, especially where the vanity top meets the tile. Are my problems because the grout was mixed wrong or sealed wrong or both? What do I need to ask my contractor to do?

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[tiledood]

"The first problem is that grout lines on the bottom of the shower are already discolored in certain areas."
How big? Spots? Colored grout or white? Have you tried to clean this area?

"The second problem is that I have some small cracking in certain areas, especially where the vanity top meets the tile."
Cracks in grout develop where there is movement. The joint adjacent to the cabinet top should recieve a good grade of flexible sealant. Depending on the grout color and manufacturer, an exact color match may not be available.

What do I need to ask my contractor to do?
Honor the written or verbal warranty, schedule a time for the service, show up at the time scheduled, wipe his feet at the door, perform the necessary services, clean up after himself when he's done, ask if you need anything else before he leaves and smile while doing so. :)

[DRD]

The sand grout is colored a shade of tan. It appears that the color isn't consistent in certain areas and has turned various darker shades. In some areas the grout is gray. We have tried a Ph neutral cleaner and tried steaming the grout with no results.

[tiledood]

Does the darker shade disappear when the shower is dry? (2 to 24 hours after use) If so, it's normal for unsealed grout to be darker when it's wet. Except, your grout is supposed to be sealed. So in this case, your sealer (job or product) is insufficient to stop water from penetrating the grout. Was the discoloration present at the time the contractor finished? How long was the grout allowed to cure before it was sealed? Brand name and series of the sealer used? If you have a digital camera and can post a picture of the problem area, it would help immensely.

[Davestone]

Also, they didn't use mastic by chance did they?