But typically, you will need to leave for at least 72 hours to make sure that the grout has cured properly and won't be compromised when exposed to water. But if you are using epoxy grout this only needs to be left for at least 24 hours.
It is recommended to wait 3 days before using the shower.
The grout can dry out as well as not seal which will allow water under it which in turn can cause damage to everything making up the floor including the tile and any other material (wood, the structure of the building) under it. Water causes damage to the structure of a building.
We recommend waiting for at least 48 hours after installing a grout before you apply a sealer. Older grout should be cleaned thoroughly before being left to dry. Make sure to protect grout from spills and stains during this time, otherwise you'll be sealing in the dirt instead of keeping it out!
The biggest risk on new grout is that in the first 24-hours or so, it's pretty soft, and in the first 4-6 hours or so, too much water may affect it, and drying it out can be problematic for ultimate strength. After that, moisture normally isn't an issue.
But typically, you will need to leave for at least 72 hours to make sure that the grout has cured properly and won't be compromised when exposed to water. But if you are using epoxy grout this only needs to be left for at least 24 hours.
Cement-based grouts are porous, and if they aren't sealed, they can absorb moisture. This moisture will eventually build up behind the walls and cause extensive harm. As we mentioned above, you may not notice it right away, and by the time you do, you may already have a lot of damage.
Penetrating sealers are the most commonly used and offer high water, chemical and stain resistance. They provide protection without changing the appearance of the grout joint.
While the initial drying process may take several hours, the curing process can span days, weeks, or even months, depending on various factors. It's not uncommon for grout to achieve its maximum strength potential only after 28 days of continuous curing under ideal conditions.
Applying sealer too early can trap moisture, leading to potential damage or a weakened seal, so ensuring the grout is fully dry is pivotal.
Grout Must Set and Cure
Then the grout needs to be cured for a couple of days. That usually takes between 48 and 72 hours. If you can avoid walking on your floor for that amount of time, that would be ideal.
It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before using the shower, even if the caulk appears dry to the touch. For full safety, 48 hours is ideal.
If grout is not sealed, it can absorb water and become a breeding ground for bacteria. It can become unsightly and ruin the entire design of your space and be hazardous to your health. If you have young children or tiles in an area where you eat, you need to ensure that they are as clean as possible.
Hot Tip: Don't wait much longer than the curing time, aim to do it within 10 days of grouting. It is easier to clean grout haze sooner rather than later because the haze promotes dirt build up making it more difficult to remove with time.
Use a dehumidifier: If you installed grout in a humid area such as a bathroom, adding a dehumidifier may help the grout cure more quickly. Remove plants: If you have plants in the room where you installed the tile, remove them while the grout dries to reduce humidity levels.
You need to apply up to 3 coats for adequate protection (see step 8), depending on your product and the amount of wear and tear in your shower. Clean and repair the grout. Use a toothbrush dipped in soapy water to scrub away as much grime as possible.
If you don't allow the mortar to cure thoroughly before you start grouting, your tiles may dislodge or move around down the road, leading to uneven surfaces.
You'll want to wait at least 24 hours before taking a shower so the new seal has time to set. Consider testing your seal by spraying water against your new grout. If some parts of the grout absorb the water, you may want to revisit that spot later on.
There are a number of factors that can cause cracks and issues in the grout. But if cared for properly, grout can last for up to twenty years.
Whoever installed your floors most likely did not seal the grout because it needs time to harden and cure completely.
Sealed area should be kept dry for minimum of 12 hours. Achieves full cure in 24 hours.
Hi, welcome to the forum, unfortunately cement based grouts are not waterproof, they can be sealed which helps but epoxy grout is waterproof and won't stain.. Be careful with the grout tool that you don't run it too deep and damage the former tray..
Either you don't have a vapor retarder or it was installed in correctly. You could remove the grout and install an impervious epoxy grout or an ASTM C920 sealant in the grout joints to make it water tight, but the water migration can still cause problems to the marble.
Grout and tiling can create perfect little environments, or breeding grounds, for mold. As harmless as it may seem, ignoring the mold that darkens the lines of grout between your tiles is a bad idea. Mold, particularly the dreaded black mold, is a type of fungus that thrives in moist, warm environments.
The most common reason grout crumbles and disintegrates with minimal force is water - too much water. Virtually all powdered wall and sanded floor grouts are made from Portland cement. Some grouts have additives, such as powdered latex or acrylic modifiers, that make them bond even better.