From mix to fix: The benefits of single-component grout

Chipped or broken tiles pose a safety hazard and detract from a home's appearance, while dirty or crumbling grout can make a home look unkempt. Addressing these issues is crucial for home maintenance. For a cracked tile floor, which often indicates an underlying cracked concrete foundation, a common issue known as "telegraphing," the most effective repair involves removing the cracked tiles along with an additional row on each side. After thoroughly cleaning the concrete subfloor to expose the crack, a floating bitumen membrane, typically 6-12 inches wide, is applied over the crack. This membrane acts as a cushion, absorbing shock and preventing the crack from reappearing through the new tiles. Following this, new thinset mastic is spread, and tiles are relaid and grouted as usual. This method, referred to as slip-sheeting, significantly improves the success rate of resolving cracked tile problems. For chipped tiles where the piece is still available, an epoxy glue product can be used for repair. However, matching the refinished surface to the original tile can be challenging; using auto body paint of a similar color may help blend the repair. When replacing tiles and no spares are available from the original installation, particularly after many years, finding an exact match can be difficult. It is advisable to select the closest possible color, texture, and size, and purchase extra tiles for future repairs. Tools required for tile removal and replacement include a utility knife, hand grout saw, cold chisel, hammer, eye protection, work gloves, sponge, clean rag, floor adhesive, rubber float, bucket, level, water, and grout. To remove an irreparable tile, first cut the surrounding grout with a utility knife or hand grout saw. Then, carefully chip out the tile using a cold chisel and hammer, ensuring not to damage adjacent tiles or grout. Any remaining adhesive on the floor should be removed with a damp sponge, and the area thoroughly cleaned. If a foundation crack is present, the floating bitumen membrane is applied first. Tile adhesive is then liberally and evenly spread, with grooves created using the notched side of a trowel. The new tile is placed, ensuring it is level with the existing floor, and excess adhesive is removed before allowing it to dry for several hours. The article discusses three main types of grout. Unsanded (nonsanded) grout, made from cement, water, and non-sand particles, is suitable for grout lines smaller than an eighth of an inch, especially for natural stone and ceramic tile in showers, as it lacks abrasive particles. Sanded grout, a cement-based mortar, is ideal for larger grout lines (greater than an eighth of an inch) in ceramic and stone tile but is absorbent and requires sealing. Epoxy grout, formed by combining epoxy resins and hardeners, is strong, durable, versatile, and impermeable to liquids, making it suitable for backsplashes, kitchen floors, and bathrooms. Epoxy grout does not require sealing but can be tricky to apply. To match existing grout, a deep cleaning of nearby grout with an oxygen bleach powder and water mixture is recommended. Grout swatches from flooring stores can aid in finding the closest match, and purchasing extra ensures availability for future repairs. For grouting, follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the grout. Apply the grout into the cracks diagonally using a rubber float. Dragging a round handle along the new grout lines provides a clean, finished appearance. After the repair, the tile should be cleaned, and the grout sealed. Regular maintenance, including weekly sweeping, mopping, and periodic inspection and resealing of grout, will help maintain the flooring's condition over time. #TileRepair #GroutReplacement #HomeMaintenance #DIYHomeRepair #FlooringRepair #TileInstallation #HomeImprovement #GroutTypes

The author, Emma Shoemaker, describes her experience with a bathroom renovation that incorporated “chunky grout,” a design choice characterized by oversized grout lines between tiles. This decision was inspired by a Cle Tile photo discovered on Pinterest, leading Shoemaker to embrace a more liberal application of grout during her bathroom makeover, which began approximately a year and a half prior to this article. Shoemaker acknowledges that her initial Instagram posts about the chunky grout technique garnered skepticism and doubt from followers. Despite these early reservations from the online community, she proceeded with the design, driven by her vision for a unique aesthetic. The article serves as a one-year follow-up, detailing how the chunky grout has performed and held up over time, and reflecting on the practicalities and visual appeal of her chosen design. The bathroom renovation itself was a significant undertaking for Shoemaker and her husband. The article focuses on a specific aspect of this renovation: the use of chunky grout, which is an unconventional choice compared to standard, thinner grout lines. This design element aimed to make a distinct statement, transforming the grout from a mere functional component into a key part of the bathroom’s overall style. Shoemaker's decision to base an entire room's design around a single inspo image highlights her dedication to achieving a particular aesthetic vision. By providing an update a year after the renovation, Shoemaker offers insights into the durability, maintenance, and long-term visual impact of chunky grout. This allows readers to assess whether this trend is a viable and lasting design option for their own home improvement projects, especially those interested in bolder, more unconventional approaches to tiling. The article implicitly addresses the concerns raised by the initial skeptics by offering a practical, real-world assessment of the technique's longevity and success. Ultimately, the article combines personal narrative with practical home design insights, documenting a specific DIY project from inspiration to its long-term evaluation. It explores the aesthetic impact of chunky grout and provides a candid assessment of its performance, offering valuable information to readers considering similar design choices. #ChunkyGrout #BathroomMakeover #TileDesign #GroutLines #HomeRenovation #DIYProject #InteriorDesign #EmmaShoemaker #CleTile

Advanced epoxy flooring systems offer a versatile solution for mitigating issues, revitalizing spaces, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of concrete floors. Keith Kimberlin, owner of Surface2Surface Global (S2S), a manufacturer and installer of liquid polymer and decorative concrete products, has achieved significant success in providing unique concrete flooring solutions. His work has gained recognition through appearances on television shows like Discovery Channel’s "Garage Rehab" and NBC’s "Cash Pad," which showcase the transformation of various properties into attractive and functional spaces. The increased demand for S2S’s services, following these broadcasts, led Kimberlin to establish a global dealer network, enabling him to share his proprietary methods and products with other concrete resurfacers. Customers typically consider five key factors when selecting a floor system: cost, aesthetics, longevity, durability, and maintenance. S2S’s advanced floor systems address these considerations, as demonstrated in various projects completed in spring 2019. One notable application was the Endura-Top 550 system at Raytheon Intelligence and Information Systems in Springfield, Va. This four-part, self-leveling polymer-modified urethane concrete system, applied 3/8 inch thick, is designed for extreme environments. It offers high resistance to impact, abrasion, chemicals, and thermal shock, and is particularly effective in addressing concrete moisture issues. The system repairs damaged concrete by patching cracks and applying the Endura-Top layer, which effectively replaces the existing concrete surface. The coating is applied with a gage rake and broadcast with No. 30 sand for strength and slip resistance, then sealed with a polyaspartic urethane topcoat, which represents the latest in flooring technology. The primary reason for Raytheon’s selection of Endura-Top was to mitigate a persistent moisture problem that had caused previous coatings to fail. Concrete, being porous, can absorb and transmit moisture, especially if placed without an adequate vapor barrier. This moisture migration can lead to efflorescence, a white powdery residue that compromises the bond of traditional epoxy coatings. Endura-Top stands apart from conventional “lock out” systems by being breathable, possessing unlimited moisture vapor emission resistance (MVER). This characteristic allows moisture to pass through the coating without causing bubbling or delamination. In the Raytheon project, an additional layer of S2S CPT-3500, developed by Aquron Corporation International, was applied. This product penetrates the concrete and forms a gel upon contact with moisture, effectively blocking water from reaching the surface and providing a critical solution for hydrostatic pressure issues. Another innovative application involved a new 12,000-sq.-ft. automated self-storage facility in Spring, Texas, called EZ Werks Self-Storage. The facility’s lobby featured S2S Metalloid Epoxy, a proprietary dynamic flow 3-dimensional metallic epoxy floor coating that creates a multi-dimensional, multi-color acid stain appearance. This high-end solution, applied 3/16 inch thick, is suitable for showrooms, art galleries, and other upscale environments. For the common areas and hallways, a micro-blend flake system was used. This system, consisting of a 100% solids base coat epoxy with a 1/8-inch polymer flake broadcast, offers superior durability, ease of maintenance, and resistance to chemical exposure, impact, and abrasion. Flake floors are a popular choice due to their ability to conceal daily dirt and dust, making them easier to maintain in commercial settings. Regardless of the chosen floor system, proper surface preparation is crucial for the successful application of epoxy coatings. S2S emphasizes the importance of evaluating the concrete’s condition, patching any damage, and achieving a Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) of at least two. This texture, typically achieved using industrial grinding equipment or shot blasters, is essential for the coating to bond correctly. Unlike power-troweled concrete, which is too hard for effective bonding, the open surface created by grinding allows S2S’s proprietary epoxy to penetrate the concrete like an oil lantern, utilizing a chemical that facilitates a migratory response. This wicking technology allows the product to become an integral part of the concrete, distinguishing it from conventional epoxies that merely sit on the surface. Therefore, while surface preparation is generally important for all products, it is mission-critical for the optimal performance of S2S’s systems. #EpoxyFlooring #ConcreteResurfacing #DecorativeConcrete #Surface2SurfaceGlobal #MoistureMitigation #FloorSystems #ConcretePreparation #MetalloidEpoxy #MicroBlendFlakeSystem

This article explores the growing trend of using cement tiles to create a "statement shower" in home bathrooms, moving beyond traditional neutral aesthetics. It highlights a specific example in Molly Alexander's en suite bathroom in Magnolia, where K&L Interiors, led by cofounder Kelly Lyons, installed dark, moody blue cement tiles. The tiles' color, though difficult to precisely name (described as having deep green undertones rather than pure cobalt or teal, eventually listed as "midnight" by the manufacturer), provides a bold contrast to the bathroom's otherwise neutral palette and cloud-patterned wallpaper. The article discusses the design philosophy behind this choice, noting that Pacific Northwest homeowners often opt for safe, neutral designs. Alexander, however, was open to more daring ideas, which is not a common client preference, according to Lyons. While picking bathroom tile is a small component of a larger renovation, it offers extensive options in color, material, shape, and size, making it a more complex decision than selecting paint colors, with more permanent consequences if a regrettable choice is made. Ceramic tile, such as the classic subway tile, remains a standard for bathroom walls, but the article focuses on cement as an alternative. Cement tiles have gained popularity over the past decade, often seen in high-design environments like hotels or restaurants, or in homes where owners are willing to make a significant design commitment. Historically, these tiles frequently featured black-and-white or bold patterns. However, the current approach, as exemplified in Alexander's home, involves using solid-color cement tiles in a new fashion. The material's natural porosity gives it subtle shadings and visible texture, and like marble, it is expected to develop a patina and show wear over time. Lyons appreciates this characteristic, stating, "It's going to show that you lived in it. I like the beauty of that." Alexander and her husband readily accepted the choice of cement tiles from Los Angeles-based Zia Tile. A key difference with cement tiles compared to ceramic or porcelain is their maintenance requirements. Alexander's shower has been in daily use for two years, and she is now due to apply the recommended biennial sealer to maintain the porous material. The article also touches upon the broader context of the design, noting that the saturated blue hue gains meaning from the bedroom's view of Elliott Bay, suggesting that blues and greens can act as neutrals in this region, provided the correct shade is chosen. Alexander considers the bathroom one of her favorite rooms and often showcases it to visitors after pointing out the water view. The article concludes with a practical tip from designer Kelly Lyons for evaluating broad color applications: taking samples outdoors to observe them in natural sunlight. This practice helps to understand how the color will appear in a larger space, even if the actual room receives less light. The discussion also highlights three Northwest resources for tile: Ann Sacks (Denny Triangle) for classic styles, Statements (Tukwila) for design-forward options, and United Tile (Georgetown) for a wide selection and expert assistance. #HomeDesign #Bathrooms #HomeInteriors #HomeRemodel #CementTile #StatementShower #InteriorDesign #TileSelection

Choosing the right grout color is a crucial decision in any tiling project, impacting both the aesthetic appeal and the long-term maintenance of the tiled surface. Grout, a cement-based material consisting of cement, sand, and water, fills the gaps between tiles, providing stability, durability, and preventing moisture infiltration. Additives like polymers or colorants can be included to improve flexibility, water resistance, and color consistency. The primary considerations when selecting grout color revolve around whether to match the tile, create contrast, or opt for a non-neutral shade. Matching grout and tile colors creates a cohesive, seamless look, making the tiled surface appear as a single, large slab. This approach is particularly effective with neutral color schemes or highly textured, small-scale tiles, such as penny rounds, where it can produce a sophisticated, monochromatic effect. Matching colors also contribute to the illusion of a larger space by minimizing visual segmentation. Conversely, contrasting grout colors can create a bold, graphic statement. For instance, dark grout against white subway tiles or light grout against dark Moroccan Zellige tiles can evoke different stylistic impressions, from modern to Old World. The choice between matching and contrasting depends on the desired visual impact and the overall design aesthetic. Regarding maintenance, neutral shades like sand, taupe, mocha, or light gray are considered the easiest grout colors to keep clean. Contrary to common belief, dark grouts can reveal mineral deposits from water over time, while very light grouts are prone to showing dirt. Sealing grout is imperative for all colors, as it repels dirt and grime, creates a barrier against water and moisture, and prevents mold and mildew. Non-neutral or colored grouts offer opportunities for unique and whimsical designs. An aqua blue grout with white tiles in a pool bath, or green grout with blue-glazed subway tiles in a child's bathroom, can add a playful and unexpected element to a space. The suitability of certain grout colors also varies by room and aesthetic style. For bathrooms, light gray grout is a practical choice, offering a clean look while effectively hiding stains. In bedrooms, a lighter grout color can foster a softer, more inviting atmosphere. Kitchens, which experience heavy foot traffic and potential spills, benefit from easy-to-clean colors such as beige, mocha, or light gray. Hallways, despite being high-traffic areas, are less prone to water stains, making darker colors like black or charcoal suitable options. Different aesthetic styles also inform grout color choices. Farmhouse interiors, characterized by warmth and natural materials, often incorporate warm grays, beige, charcoal, or terracotta grout. Modern aesthetics can leverage bold black and white or colored grouts to highlight tiles or add a retro touch. Minimalist designs typically benefit from grout colors that closely match the tile, minimizing contrast to create a seamless, understated look. #GroutColor #TileDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #DesignTips #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #GroutMaintenance