Best Grout Sealer (2023): Reviews & Comparison 

Building a house can seem like a big task but it doesn’t just end there. There is upkeep involved that will keep you engaged during all the years that you live in the house.

While there are always professionals whose help you can enlist to get some of the major work done, you can save quite a bit of money by doing some of the easier tasks on your own.

One such task is sealing the narrow line that comes between tiles as they are laid on any surface. This line – is referred to as grout.

There are many areas of the house that may have tiles laid down. It can be for the aesthetic appeal as tiles make the house look quite lovely, or it could be utilitarian, as they can help increase the amount of money you receive when you try to sell the house. Overall, they are an essential part of a well-kept house and to ensure that they are kept in place, the grout needs to be sealed.

Before we get to the best options available in the market when it comes to grout sealers, let’s try to understand what this specialized product is and things you should keep in mind before picking one.

Our Grout Sealer Reviews

There are a number of grout sealers available in the market. After going through the buying guide, you will definitely be better equipped to choose the right grout sealer for your needs.

However, it is always better to know what are the best options available in the market and how they fare when compared to each other. You can find the best 8 grout sealers that can be bought online listed below:

Black Diamond Nex-Gen Natural Stone Penetrating Sealer

The first name on the list of best grout sealers available in the market is the Black Diamond Nex-Gen Natural Stone Penetrating Sealer. While it isn’t specifically designed to be a grout sealer, it has a more multi-purpose use. While most other sealers come in bigger, unwieldy bottles, this product is available in a comfortable 16-ounce spray bottle. Not only does this make it easier to be used on smaller projects, but it is also easy to store or handle.

This Black Diamond sealer is water-based and can be used on a number of surfaces, for example, grout, concrete, granite and a variety of other stones. It isn’t toxic or corrosive, which makes it safer for use in a number of situations.

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StoneTech Heavy Duty Grout Sealer

Available in multiple sizes – the pint, quart, and gallon version – the StoneTech grout sealer is one of the most effective sealers on this list. This specialized grout sealer is built on a water-based formula. This seeps deep into the grout to provide better protection to the tiles. This level of protection keeps all the water damage and any other possible stains away from the grout. All of this is done without leaving residue or visible signs on the tiles.

The StoneTech grout sealer is the ideal option for people who have a large number of tiles in their house. This heavy duty sealer will get the job done without burning a hole in your pocket.

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Tuff Duck Granite, Grout and Marble Sealer

The third option on this list is Tuff Duck’s Granite, Grout and Marble Sealer. Available in the 22-ounces and gallon version, you can choose one depending on the requirements. If the work that needs to be done isn’t too vast, you can opt for the smaller spray bottle. If the area covered is around 1,000 square feet, you will need the larger gallon-sized one.

This can be used for multiple surfaces like grout, granite or marble. The formula is put together in a manner that it isn’t toxic and safe if it needs to be used on natural surfaces without compromising on their natural look. They are very effective in reaching the insides of the grout and keeping moisture out.

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AFM Safecoat Grout Sealer

The best grout sealer is one that blends into the décor of the room that you are using it in without standing out in any manner. It isn’t going to be the main attraction for the viewer. A great option in this regard is Safecoat’s grout sealer, which prevents any penetration of water that could leave odd marks, ensuring that you have no problems in terms of looks.

This sealer is also non-toxic, which is important if you are going to use it around food or around spaces where children may be playing. A lot of grout sealers end up getting discolored over time, but this isn’t a problem that you will face with this one.

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Miracle Sealants 511QT6 511 Impregnator Penetrating Sealers

If you are looking for a sealer that will delve deep into the grout and not just stop on the surface, this Miracle Sealants variant may be perfect for you. Instead of a simple water-based formula, this product is developed with a solvent-based formula that can reach deeper into the grout, giving you protection that lasts longer than most options in the market. No more stains to worry about!

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Aqua Mix Sealer's Choice Gold

If you are looking for a sealer that will not just give you good quality protection, but also the natural look that most homeowners prefer, the Sealer's Choice Gold sealer by Aqua Mix is one of the best grout sealers in the market. It has a water-based formula, which makes it ideal for a number of surfaces, for example, grout, ceramic tiles, granite, limestone and so on. This can also be used before you apply the grout for next level protection.

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The Floor Guys Grout & Granite Penetrating Sealer

The next grout sealer on this list is the variant by The Floor Guys. This penetrating sealer seeps into the grout with great ease, making sure that you have the best possible protection that grout sealers can provide. As it goes deep into the grout and binds the sand particles, you will not see an unnatural sheen that can look odd in the case of some other penetrating sealers.

The formula is water-based and lasts for a long time. This means you won’t have to repeat the exercise often, which can be a downside with many cheap grout sealers.

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Miracle Sealants PLUS QT 511 Porous Plus Sealer

The great part about Miracle Sealants’ Porous Plus Sealer is that it is resistant to both oil and water. This means that if this product is used on kitchen countertops, you will be saved from those unsightly spills and seepages that can lead to a discolored surface. This product is easy to apply and the company’s name itself stands for good quality products.

As it can be used on multiple surfaces, you will not be limited to just one use of the product. You can use it in many different parts of the house to get the best value for your money.

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What Is a Grout Sealer?

If you aren’t well versed with the many processes involved in keeping your home in the best situation possible, you may not be familiar with grout sealers. As you have learned earlier, grout is the cement-like product that fills the spaces between the tiles that are installed, giving it a seam-like appearance. This substance also includes sand. Due to the porosity of this sand, the grout also becomes porous.

This makes it easy for water or other liquids to seep into these regions, compromising the integrity of the tiles. Therefore, it is important that you are able to ensure that this part of the surface is sealed well.

To deal with such situations, you can purchase any one of the many grout sealers that are readily available in the market. These can be applied to the unsanded grout between tiles or any other such place that requires sealing. This will help in keeping out all the moisture or consequent staining that could be the result of water or any other liquid seeping into the grout. Not only does this staining and moisture look particularly bad to look at, but it can also lead to bacterial growth and other such problems in the long run.

Types of Grout Sealers Available in the Market

There are many grout sealers that can be bought in stores or through online platforms. They can be broadly divided into three different categories – coatings, penetrating grout sealer, and color sealers. Each of these will be discussed in further detail so that you can pick the type that works best for your needs.

Coatings

The first type of grout sealers that are commonly used are coatings, which lay on top of the grout without actually seeping into the cement-like product. Therefore, they act like a barrier between all the extraneous products and the grout surfaces, keeping it safe. There are two types of coats – strippable and permanent coatings. The first type can be removed from the grout with relative ease and made of polymers. The second type – permanent coatings – cannot be removed easily and aren’t really the best option for porous grout.

Impregnators or Penetrating Grout Sealer

The second type to be discussed is the penetrating grout sealer, or as they are often called, impregnators. They penetrate into the grout, going under the surface so that they can get solid particles to cover the pores and avoid any liquids or other matter from getting into the grout. These penetrating sealers can be water-repelling or oil-repelling. While all water-repellent sealers do not perform the function of oil repellent ones, all oil repellent sealers are also resistant to water.

Color Sealing

The last type of sealers on the list is the color sealer. This is designed specially so that it doesn’t just seal the grout effectively, but also changes the color of the grout. The main reason why some people use this type of sealer is to change the color of the grout if it has gotten so dirty that it looks unsightly.

Questions to Yourself before Making the Purchase

If you are looking to buy some grout sealer but don’t know what are the important aspects, you should keep some important factors in mind. These can range from the type of surface that you will be using the sealer on, the type of fumes they release, whether the product is toxic or not, and many others. To make this easier, here are some questions that you should ask yourself before picking the best grout sealer

What Function Will You Be Using the Grout Sealer For?

Is It Effective Enough to Meet Your Needs?

There are many grout sealers that are available in the market. However, not all of these will be your best bet when you are finding the right grout sealer for the work that needs to be done at home. The list of the best grout sealers given at a later stage will help you to pick out one that is effective, yet in your budget. Effectiveness is the most important factor that you need to consider when you’re buying a grout sealer.

Some brands have a better reputation in the market than some others and it can be helpful if you opt for products from these companies. In addition to the product’s own effectiveness, the overall durability of the grout sealer also depends on the manner in which you have applied it. If it is applied well, it will be more effective in keeping moisture or other liquids out.

How Long Does the Grout Sealer Work For?

The last factor to consider before you buy a grout sealer is the amount of time it should be able to last on the surface where you have applied it. The grout sealer will be able to stay in place for different amounts of time, depending on the different factors it is opposed to. For example, if the grout sealer is used outside, where it is exposed to wind, rain and other sources of moisture, it will last for a much shorter time than it will in a closed setting.

Inside, there will not be as many natural factors but the grout sealer will be in close contact with food, heat and other factors. The life of grout sealers will depend on all these factors and cheaper grout sealers may only work for a shorter period of time.

Finally, it is important to understand that to get the most out of your grout sealer, you will have to apply the grout sealer with precision and care. There are instructions present on the container of the grout sealer, which will have to be followed with great accuracy so that it lasts longer and is able to stay effective.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is a Grout Sealer? 

Grout sealer is used to seal grout between tiles. It prevents moisture from penetrating the grout and spreading underneath the tiles. Grout, especially sanded varieties, is extremely porous; therefore, the application of grout sealer is an essential part of tile installation. With the exception of epoxy-based grout, grout sealer should always be used.

How often should you seal grout?

The best grout sealer should be applied every time new ceramic tile work is installed. After a new tile has been installed, reseal grout every six months or once a year. For existing tile work, apply grout sealer once a year. However, many grout sealer manufacturers and tile professionals say you can wait two years before you apply grout sealer again.

Prior to resealing grout, the surface of the tile and grout should be thoroughly cleaned to ensure proper application and total penetration.

How do you seal grout lines?

To seal grout lines, use paintable silicone grout sealer. First, remove any excess grout with a damp sponge. Then apply the grout sealer evenly over the dried grout lines. Let it dry completely before painting.

How long after sealing grout can you take a shower?

After grout sealer is applied, it needs to have time to cure before it gets wet. If you use your shower before the grout sealer has fully cured, the moisture could damage it and render it ineffective. Therefore, waiting to use your shower until the grout sealer has fully cured is highly recommended. The amount of time you should wait depends on the product you use.

Most manufacturers provide directions with their grout sealing products, and those directions highlight the amount of time you should wait to use your shower; on average, you should wait at least 12 hours to use your shower after sealing grout to your tile. To ensure the sealer has cured, test it; apply a few drops of water onto the grout to see if it repels water. If it beads up, the grout sealer is safe to use; if it doesn’t, it still needs time to cure.

How long does grout sealer last? 

The amount of time a grout sealer will last depends on a variety of factors, including the type of sealer you are using and the wear and tear the tile and grout are exposed to. Many high-quality grout sealers advertise a 20-year lifespan; however, in order to prevent water penetration, applying grout sealer every one to two years is highly recommended. If the grout is exposed to excessive amounts of moisture and humidity, resealing once a year is strongly encouraged.

Do you need to wipe off grout sealer?

You will probably need to scrub excess sealer off the tiles. Grout sealer is applied to keep more moisture in the grout and tiles, but it also prevents you from being able to clean it properly. It can also cause discoloration if not cleaned properly.

Does sealer darken grout?

While grout sealer improves the durability of your tile and extends its life expectancy, it’s important to understand that sealer can change the color of your grout. While it won’t change the color of your grout, it can darken it; it can turn white grout a shade or two darker, for example. To determine how much the sealer will alter the color of your grout, testing out a small area first is highly recommended.

Allow the sealer to completely dry so you can observe the effect. There are non-pigmented sealers available; however, they can still slightly darken the color of the grout, so testing before applying is strongly encouraged.

Conclusion

After going through some of the best grout sealers available in the market, you may already be able to gauge which one works better for you. For example, if you are looking for a grout sealer that isn’t too expensive but can be used on a variety of surfaces, you can opt for the Black Diamond Nex-Gen Natural Stone Penetrating Sealer.

The Miracle Sealants Impregnator Penetrating Sealer is another high-quality product that will be of help in a number of projects that you choose to undertake around the house. Make sure that you look at all the features of each of these products before you decide to buy it so that it fits right in with your requirements.