100 Springhouse Drive, Suite 105, Collegeville, PA 19426

CARING FOR YOUR HOME

CERAMIC TILE

Joints

Cracks in the grout between tiles may appear in the joints where the tile meets the tub, the shower base, the floor or in the corners. This is the result of normal settlement and shrinkage. To repair these openings, remove all loose grout with a razor blade or a putty knife. Make sure the opening is clean and dry or the replacement caulk will not adhere properly. Using a caulking gun or depressing a tube of caulk, apply a thin bead of matching silicone caulk to the joint. Lightly run your finger across the caulk, pressing it into the joint for a smooth line. Remove any excess grout with a damp sponge.

These repairs should be part of each homeowner's regular maintenance. Keep all joints sealed to insure a long life for your tiled surfaces.

Grout

To repair cracks between tiles, other than at joints, regrouting may be required. Follow the directions supplied with the grout which can be obtained at your local hardware store. You may want to consider applying a silicone sealer to protect the new grout.