Colorado Springs Grout Medic Blog

To Seal or Not to Seal

Alright, tile fans, gather 'round. Today we’re diving into a topic hotter than a summer sidewalk in flip-flops: Which tiles need sealant—and which ones are fine flying solo?

If you've ever stood in your kitchen squinting at your grout lines and wondering, "Should I have sealed that?” you are not alone. Lucky for you, we at Grout Medic have sealed more tile than any other company, and we’re ready to spill the glossy (or matte) truth.

First Things First: Why Seal at All?

Sealing tile helps:

  • Repel stains (because accidents happen)
  • Block moisture (your tile hates mildew as much as you do)
  • Keep grout from throwing a moldy tantrum
  • Extend the life and luster of your flooring or backsplash

BUT—not all tiles need it. Some are low-maintenance rock stars, while others are divas who require a little extra pampering.

Tiles That Don't Need Sealant

These are your independent types. They’ve got their act together and don’t need help staying beautiful.

Porcelain

Super dense, water-resistant, and basically the superhero of the tile world. Glazed porcelain is especially chill—no sealing needed. (Un-glazed? Keep reading…)

Ceramic

Another low-maintenance champ. Glazed ceramic tiles already have a protective finish, so they can hold their own against splashes and spills.

BUT: Even though the tile itself might not need sealing, your grout absolutely does. Grout is porous. Grout is needy. Grout needs love.

Tiles That DO Need Sealant

These are your high-maintenance beauties—gorgeous, unique, and just a little extra. And honestly? Worth it.

Natural Stone (like marble, travertine, slate, limestone, granite)

These tiles are as porous as a sponge in a sauna. Without a sealant, they’ll soak up stains, oils, and even water like your favorite pair of suede shoes in a rainstorm. Not ideal.

Natural stone needs to be sealed when installed—and resealed regularly (every 1–2 years) to keep that glam glow and protect against damage.

Terra Cotta & Saltillo

Rustic? Yes. Adorable? Also yes. Porous? Big yes. These earthy, unglazed tiles are thirsty little sponges. They absolutely need sealing to survive everyday life (and taco night).

Un-Glazed Porcelain or Ceramic

Surprise twist! Not all porcelain and ceramic tiles are glazed. The un-glazed ones need sealant too—or you’ll be looking at a scuffed, stained mess faster than you can say “oops.”

Bonus Tip: What About Grout?

We’ll say it louder for the folks in the back: Grout always needs sealant.

Unless it’s epoxy grout (a rare but glorious exception), that stuff is like the black hole of spills. Wine, coffee, pet accidents—it’ll absorb it all unless you seal it like Fort Knox.


Sealing Success Starts with Grout Medic

Not sure what kind of tile you have? Can’t remember the last time anything was sealed? That’s what we’re here for. At Grout Medic, we’ll inspect, clean, seal, and leave your tile looking so good you’ll want to host a dinner party just to show it off.

Whether it’s your marble foyer or that quirky Saltillo in your sunroom, we’ll make sure your tile is protected, polished, and ready to impress.

So let’s seal the deal, shall we? Call Grout Medic and let’s give your tile the love (and sealant) it deserves.

By Grout Medic Colorado Springs Staff 6-1-2025

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