FAQ

There is always a remote possibility of an individual fractured tile, usually caused by not being bonded properly and then being impacted by
an object dropping on it. That type of fracture is repaired by replacing the damaged tile. A sure rule of thumb to determining the problem: if the crack goes from one tile to another on a continuous line through the grout joint, the problem, without any doubt, is in the substrate; usually a crack in the slab. The damaged tile would have to be removed, a crack isolation membrane put down and the tile reinstalled; which should solve the problem.

NEW GROUT: Because cementitious grout is porous, sealing can help to keep grout joints clean. Allow grout to dry at least 48/hours, then make sure it is clean before sealing with a sealer recommended for grout. EXISTING GROUT: A routine for cleaning grout should be established, as occasionally cleaning with household cleaners containing acid, bleach or even vinegar will etch the tile and grout in time. There should be two types of cleaning procedures, regular 'Routine Cleaning' with a concentrated non-acidic phosphate free cleaner and occasional 'Heavy Duty Cleaning' when dirty. We recommend for Heavy Duty Cleaning: Aqua Mix 'Heavy Duty Tile & Grout Cleaner.' NOTE: Epoxy grouts are not
porous and are easier to clean; however, they are more expensive to purchase and to install.

First, with any abrasive tile, you cannot use a standard mop as it will be torn to shreds and leave strings on the floor. A nylon mop will not normally leave "strings" behind. MOST IMPORTANT: Make sure you always use clean water. Change as often as necessary. When cleaning this floor, it must be scrubbed daily (at least) with a brush and, if available, use a vac system (wet vacuum) to pull up the residue of water. At least once a week the floor should be cleaned with an electric floor scrubber. If no vac system is available, surplus water must be accumulated in one area and
gathered up, or some commercial kitchens have drains for disposal of excess water.

There are several possible reasons for cracking grout:

1. A flexible substrate (plywood, etc.)
2. Poor installation; tile not bonded, resulting in loose tile.
3. A non-sanded grout was used with the grout joints too wide. When the grout shrunk, the only possible thing it could do is crack.
4. The grout joint was not completely filled during installation, leaving
   voids on the surface.
5. In a large floor installation, where the grout crack is isolated in
   specific areas, it is usually caused by the lack of expansion joints.

To merely apply new grout over existing grout is not the answer because it will always look like that is what you have tried to do without success. You can re-grout if you dig out the existing grout and there are saws specifically designed for this purpose. However, be forewarned that it is a tedious and exasperating task and it is virtually impossible to do without damaging some of the tile, which would
necessitate replacement. You would then probably have a problem matching the color shade of the tile. The saws are actually utilized either with fresh grout or a smaller area which needs re-grouting; thus they are not really practical for large areas. The grout can be stained with a grout stain such as 'Grout Colorant' by Aqua Mix. Available in 22/normal grout colors, plus three vivid intense colors, Red, Yellow and Blue.