problem with non-sanded grout

[southerntilelp]

Hey all, I installed some tile with a 16th inch joint, and used non sanded walnut grout. After grouting, the next day all the joints are practically white, similar to haze you see on tiles.The mixture was right because where there was slight build up (door jambs) the grout was colored perfectly. When I rewiped everything, the joints would turn to the correct color while wet, but as soon as it dried it still had the same white shiny look. I haven't used anything to attempt to clean them yet other than water, and they aren't sealed. I scored a few spots and could get the correct color to show. Any idea as to how to fix this and where I went wrong? Did I just not clean it well enough on initial install? I've only used non sanded on a few small applications in the past. What can i do to fix this? Can i use an abrasive cloth of some kind or any kind of cleaners recommended or is it beyond repair? The grout was non-sanded Durabond Walnut color.

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[ceramictec]

Hey Matt,

sounds to me you used too much water when washing if the grout is shiny in some spots.

could be tour type of water.

try a wash of a mixture of 50/50 white vinegar & water.

[doitright]

Hi Matt :)

Are these natural stone tiles, or porcelain tiles. That will help explain what happened as well as an accurate solution. I think Brian is on track with too much water being used during cleanup, but if this is natural stone, vinegar and water is a no no.

[southerntilelp]

Thanks for replies so far. It is actually ceramic wood plank by Interceramic. About to grab some vinegar and spot test.

[southerntilelp]

Okay, spot tested two different spots, one i just wiped and the other i used a plastic bristle brush to scrub vinegar/water solution in. The parts I wiped didn't help much, but there was a difference. The lines I scrubbed with a bristle brush messaging the solution in actually helped considerably, but the grout still dries a bit lighter than it should, should I just go over multiple times? Or do my symptoms sound like they are leading to something else? The haze from original grouting was wiped prior to scrubbing with vinegar so that isn't what is causing the lightness after cleaning. Any help would be appreciated. Also, when I seal will it help darken a bit maybe?

[ben-e]

I've had that problem. Sealers, and/or color enhancers can do a lot in these situations. What does vinegar do to natural stone?

[southerntilelp]

Vinegar and scrubbing cleaned the lines but still a bit white. Which way is better to go if i wanna get a little bit more tone out of it? sealer? enhancer? Or possible to do both? I'm just doing touch ups now so I have time for opinions. Thank you!

[doitright]

Hi Matt :)

At this point, I'd consider using a grout colorant.

[SABoyt]

Hi Matt. I agree with John. You may be at the point that you can't get back to the original color, since the color was washed out with the cleaning.

What does vinegar do to natural stone?
Ben it will etch the stone. Acids react with the lime. Not all natural stone is acid sensitive but some are. If the stone is polished it will remove the shine.