Sealer Types

Not all sealers are the same. We match the product to the surface.

Penetrating Sealer

The most common sealer for grout and natural stone. It absorbs into pores to protect below the surface without changing color, sheen, or appearance. Water and oil bead up instead of soaking in, making it ideal for most residential grout, natural stone tile, and surfaces where you want invisible protection.

Topical Sealer

Applied on top of the surface rather than absorbed into it. Creates a visible protective coating that can add sheen or gloss to the surface. More common on saltillo tile, some unglazed tiles, and decorative surfaces where the sealer’s appearance is part of the finish.

Color-Enhancing Sealer

A penetrating sealer that deepens and enriches the natural color of the grout or stone — bringing out the variation and warmth that can fade over time. Commonly used on slate, sandstone, and darker natural stone tiles where the color enhancement improves the overall appearance.

Need to Clean First?

Sealing dirty grout locks the dirt in.

Sealer works by filling the pores of the grout or stone. If those pores already contain dirt, soap scum, bacteria, or staining — which is the case for most floors that haven't been professionally cleaned recently — sealing over them traps that contamination below the surface where it can't be removed.

For sealing to work as intended, the grout needs to be clean first. That's why we always seal after a professional cleaning, and why we assess the condition of the grout before agreeing to seal a floor that comes in for sealing alone.

If your tile and grout needs cleaning before it can be sealed, we do that too — and can handle both in a single visit.


Our process

From assessment to sealed floor — here's exactly what to expect.

We assess the grout and tile type, condition, and any existing staining or damage. We confirm whether the surface is clean enough to seal or whether cleaning is needed first.

The grout lines are confirmed clean and dry before any sealer is applied. Sealer applied to damp grout doesn't penetrate or bond correctly.

The appropriate sealer is applied to the grout lines — and to the tile surface itself for natural stone. We work methodically to ensure complete coverage without pooling on the tile face.

The sealer is allowed to penetrate for the appropriate dwell time, then excess sealer is wiped from the tile face before it cures. Sealer left on glazed tile surfaces creates a hazy film.

The sealed floor needs time to cure before water contact — typically 24 to 48 hours for full effectiveness. We'll give you the specific timeline for the product used.

We walk the floor with you before we leave and answer any questions about maintenance going forward.