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Sealing the grout between your wall and floor tiles can be highly advantageous in your home. This is particularly true in shower or bathroom areas, where moisture, shampoo, and soap residues can cause stains and contamination that is difficult to remove.

Shower grout is made up of sand, cement, and water, and as a result, it is porous and absorbent by nature. It may absorb dirt and mildew like a sponge if it is not sealed, and once it's in, getting out can take a long time. Grout can be easily sealed without spending a lot of money, and water-based and solvent-based sealers are both available. Mold and mildew are avoided by sealing your grout at least once every year.

Sealing grout in your shower is a quick and easy way to keep moisture from seeping in between and beneath your tiles. Wet grout is an ideal breeding ground for harmful mold and mildew. Listed below is a guided process on sealing your shower grout properly. 

What to Prepare for Shower Grout Sealing

You have to work in a protected and well-ventilated area. Ensure you clean your grout lines properly and fix any cracks or breaks with MB Stone Care MB-2 Alkaline HD Heavy Duty Cleaner. Otherwise, dirt and broken seams will be sealed in. Remove as much filth as possible with a scrubber. Wearing protective gear is highly required. In line with starting the sealing process, here are the few things you need to prepare:

• MB Stone Care MB-24 Barrier Impregnating Sealer
• Rubber Gloves
• Vapor Mask
• Safety Goggles (For eye protection)
• Wet Cloths

When to Seal Your Shower Grout

You should wait at least 48 to 72 hours for the grout to settle and solidify after putting in new tile. Ensure your grout is clean and dry and that none of the lines are broken or chipped. If they are, retouch the grout and wait for another 48 to 72 hours before sealing it.

It is not very difficult to apply the grout sealer yourself.  It is a little complicated and time-consuming, but even a rookie do-it-yourselfer can handle it. This is simple when you have wider tiles (e.g., 12′′ x 12′′); when you have thinner tiles, you will get more grout lines, and it will take a little longer.

Step-by-step Guide on Shower Grout Sealing

Porosity should be tested on the surface. Place a tiny amount of water on the surface and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. After that, wipe away the water to check if a darker mark remains. This indicates that the surface is loose and needs to be sealed. Any surface that is not meant to be touched should be covered or protected. 

With MB Stone Care MB-24 Barrier Impregnating Sealer, use a paint pad, paintbrush, paint roller, or finishing mop to apply a thick, even coat. Seal the surface in manageable pieces to reduce the chance of residue being left behind. We prefer to work in 50 square feet-100 sq. ft. sections at a time. Make sure the next area you apply overlaps the previous one. This impregnating sealer will provide a long-lasting, water-resistant barrier. Stain resistance and removal are all excellent features of this product.

Allow 5-15 minutes for the sealer to infiltrate the surface; denser materials may take more time to absorb. During this time, make sure the area you are working on remains wet by shifting product to dry spots; if necessary, wipe the surface area with a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining sealant. 

Wipe the whole site down with a clean, dry towel to remove any remaining sealer. Allowing excess sealer to cure on the surface is not good; use paper towels, rags, or a cleaning machine with carpet bonnets.

A second coat may be required for porous, absorbent surfaces, which must be placed one hour after the first coat. If the sealer was not eradicated and a residue remains, wipe the entire surface with a dampened sealer towel. Remove residue with a clean, white soaking towel after loosening it with a white nylon pad.

As mentioned, the sealer fully solidifies within 24-72 hours. After applying, for at least 4-6 hours, do not walk on the surface.

Choosing the Right Shower Grout Sealer

The MB Stone Care MB-24 Barrier Impregnating Sealer or MB-24 "Barrier" is a water-based, professional-grade fluorochemical sealer that is easy to use for both homeowners and professionals. This powerful water-based penetrating sealer benefits all porous natural stone, concrete, terrazzo, terracotta, saltillo, slate, and grout. This offers superior hydrophobic and oleophobic coverage, as well as stain resistance and quicker stain removal. 

Precautions: Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with your eyes, skin, or clothing. After handling, carefully wash your hands. If you come into touch with something, flush your eyes immediately with enough water for at least 15 minutes. Drink a lot of water if accidentally swallowed and contact a doctor immediately. These are why it's essential to wear protective gear while using this product.