There are three main types of grout – Portland cement grout, epoxy grout and furan resin grout. All of these types can be also sanded or non-sanded. Portland cement is the most common used cement all over the world and it is used for production of concrete as well as for grouts. Sanded grouts are used when the joints are larger than 1/8″. On the contrary, the non-sanded grouts are used when the joints are smaller than 1/8″.

The epoxy resin grout contains epoxy, silica fillers, hardeners and pigments and it is more expensive (about $8 per pound) than the other grout types as well as more difficult to apply. The epoxy resin grout is very strong, stain, water and chemical attack resistant. It can be found also in sanded and unsanded forms. Because of its durability it is probably the best choice for floors, backsplashes, entry ways, kitchens etc.

The furan resin grout comes also in sanded and unsanded forms and instead of water it contains alcohol. It is usually used when it is required chemical, thermal and physical resistance (like the epoxy grout). When preparing the mixture, a respirator should be used. The furan resin should be mixed according to manufacturer’s instructions. It is usually used when the joints are 1/8″ to1/4″.

The Portland cement grout is the most popular one. The sanded type is usually applied to moistened tiles. The unsanded Portland cement dry-set grout should be applied on dry tile surfaces. It is usually used when the joints are 1/32″ to 1/8″. During the mixing of Portland cement grout with water filter masks (or respirators), goggles and gloves are to be used.

One of the cheapest ways of cleaning grout is by mixing half a cup of hydrogen peroxide with one cup of water. You should use a spray bottle to apply the mixture on the molded areas. After spraying, the mixture should not be rinsed. Some say that bleach solution is preferable in order to remove the mold but bleach may change the grout color. The molded areas should be sprayed regularly.

When cleaning the grout with some commercial cleaners (chemicals) you should be very careful since if you mix them, you can cause a chemical reaction and harm yourself. You can use a toothbrush (in combination with some cleaning solution) for cleaning grouts since it won’t damage tile’s surface. Some claim that vinegar is also a good grout cleaner.

When your grout needs restoration, renewing and replacement, the best idea probably is to call professionals. Except the fact that they are skilled and certified, they use professional machines, they know which type of grout should be applied and how to do it. Bear in mind that to choose the right type of grout is very important.

Tile and grout can be cleaned by mixing together a cup of Borax, two cups of baking soda and water enough to prepare a thick paste. The paste should be applied to the tile and grout and scrubbed with a soft brush. After scrubbing it should be rinsed and dried. In order to clean your tile floor properly, make sure that you are using the right mop. For tile floors it is preferable to use chamois floor mops. You can use a solution of one gallon warm water, a tablespoon of Borax and two tablespoons of ammonia. Using the mop, wipe down your tile floors. While cleaning, the water in the bucket should be changed frequently (when it becomes dirty) and the mop should be rinsed. Bear in mind that by using a dirty mop you just contribute to dirt and bacteria to build up on the grout joints. The solution then should be left to dry on the floor completely and then it can be cleaned with a clean rag. A ceramic tile floor can be cleaned also by scrubbing it with a polisher-scrubber or floor washer (electric). You can prepare a mixture of one gallon of water and one or two table spoons of tri-sodium phosphate. The solution should be rinsed well. If the grout still needs some treatment, you can use a solution of chlorine bleach and water (equal parts), apply it on the grout and let it stay for 20-30 minutes. Then it should be rinsed well and dried.

Be extra careful when using Borax as it is a very strong chemical.  Not only is it used for heavy duty cleaning, but its also used for pest removal, lawn treatments, parasite cleansing and other unsavory tasks.

In case your tiles and grouts still look dirty and discolored, you should hire a professional. Tile wet saws can create a large mess, so even immediately after tile installation you may need professional cleanup assistance.  Professionals are using many and different cleaning methods, latest cleaning technologies and they know what type of method to use in order to clean a certain type of tile and grout without damaging them. Besides, they have different machines like high temperature and high pressure machines that dissolve the dirt and take it out (extract) of the tiles and grouts. After a professional cleaning, your tiles and grouts will look pretty and elegant again. You may also consider using a tile and grout sealer in order to protect your tile floor and grout.