Construction Dust Removal/Sealing Grout

[Esquirette]

It has come to my attention that the builder/seller of a new construction 3-story house I am purchasing did not require the installer of Emser porcelain tile flooring in the kitchen and bathrooms to seal the light colored grout. Sealing of all floors, counters and/or grout is a written obligation of the seller/builder set forth in the Purchase Contract.

Although the seller has performed some light initial sweeping and rag dusting of surfaces in the house, he is obligated to perform a "deep" cleaning prior to closing. As a result, there is still construction dust (e.g. hardwood sanding) remaining on all surfaces including most notably on the floors.

In reseaching this forum on how to clean construction dust prior to sealing floor grout, I found the following advice: "Start with a tile & stone specific neutral pH cleaner. Let it sit on the surface for a few minutes, agitate with a stiff brush, and wet vac the residual and rinse."

If he cleans at all prior to sealing, I know the builder will merely wipe a wet mop over the floors prior to sealing and just "move" some dust into the grout. Is it unreasonable or too demanding of me to require the builder to use the above-suggested cleaning method? I will, of course, somehow have to watch over him to insure he complies.

Thank you so much for you kind consideration and advice. I am at a point with the builder that I am more than willing to clean it myself just to make sure it is done right.

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[Marge]

Esquirette, welcome to the forum.

We'll get some help over your way. Bear with us. :)

[Esquirette]

Thank you for the welcome. I am so happy to have found this forum - an incredible wealth of information.

Susie

[ceramictec]

Hi Susie,

I know all the builders I work for have a cleaning grew come in for a final clean. dont know if you asked your builder if he does that or not.

[cx]

Houses I build are always cleaned enough for the customer to live in before they get the keys. Then they make a big mess in the moving, eh? :)

If the builder is obligated to seal your tile floors, he should clean them and seal them. Seems pretty straight forward to moi.

If the floors are already so dirty as to require more that simple vacuuming before sealing, he should have that cleaning done, too. Then he should have the floors sealed.

Deal's a deal. From your screen name we can deduce that you're familiar with that concept, yes?

My opinion; worth price charged.

[Esquirette]

Cermictec and CX - Thanks so much for your guidance.

I am not concerned so much about the final clean of the whole house which he has agreed to and we have discussed a number of times. I just want to make sure I am not being too demanding or picky if I dictate how I want the tiles cleaned before he seals to insure all dust has been removed.

CX - Your deduction is correct. Please note, however, I am by no means a shark or snake. :)

Susie

[tileguytodd]

Susie.......( may I call you Susie? )

First thing to determine is wether you have a cementious grout and NOT an Epoxy or a Urethane type that requires NO sealing......(we want you to look smart here right?? :) )

A close up picture might help.....But knowing the type of grout used would be best.

#1 - Did YOU Specify the tile & Grout Color or is this a Spec Home you are purchasing?

#2 - If you are in a High Dollar neighborhood it is Possible that a specialty grout was used...(some General contractors are getting smarter and know that as new construction settles in, Epoxy grout is less likely to require attention)
If you do have epoxy grout, Throw a Party, you have the best there is...No sealing required..EVER!!!!

Also if you are in a High dollar neighborhood and Single, Ive got a buddy..:yeah:...... just a lil joke ;) :D
Besides, My buddy is :gerg: enough to be your Tilesetter :rofl:

Generally a Contractor will take care of your concerns, Some need to be coaxed.....Gentle coaxing may make for a long term person you can call on for other problems as well.......It doesnt hurt to have a freind in construction.

Others unfortunately need to be handled a bit firmer. Be clear on what you expect and perhaps even offer to find your own construction cleaning outfit and to save him time simply send him the Bill (remember you are trying to be nice & helpful here..........When He hears send him the Bill he may become a bit more attentive to your needs)

Best of luck to you!!
Todd

[John Bridge]

Hi and welcome. :)

The final result is what the builder is obligated to provide. How he/she arrives at that point is really not up to you to dictate. My opinion only. :)

[Trask]

Welcome,

I agree with all that has been posted..I further second the common notion that you cannot dictate howthe work be specificaly performed.However it is often suggested to me that I work in a certain manner. If that suggestion is concurrent with my contemparary standard of current tile community beliefs I :dunce: oblige

I don't think what your asking is unreasonable...it is asking him/her to perform work in a pro manner...The real trick is how do you approach it in a disarming and tactful demenour so as not to appear adverserial or condensending. :shrug: