Sealing Porcelain Tiles is Easier Than You Think With This Quick Tutorial

Porcelain tile is a popular flooring choice for many homes due to its durability, aesthetics, and easy maintenance. However, there's often confusion around whether porcelain needs to be sealed to protect it. The answer depends on whether the tile is glazed or unglazed.

Glazed porcelain, with its impervious glassy coating, does not require sealing. Liquids don't absorb into the tile at all. But for unglazed porcelain, sealing can help guard against staining from spills, fingerprints, and dirt. This quick tutorial will cover everything you need to know about sealing porcelain tiles.

Do You Really Need to Seal Porcelain Tile?

If your porcelain tiles have a shiny, glossy surface, they are glazed and do not need sealing. The glass glaze makes them non-porous so liquids cannot penetrate or stain them.

But unglazed porcelain, with a matte texture, is porous and can absorb liquids. Sealing creates an invisible barrier to block absorption and staining. Check with your tile supplier to find out if your tiles are glazed or unglazed.

When Sealing is Recommended

Sealing is advised for unglazed porcelain tiles in these locations:

• Kitchen backsplashes
• Bathroom floors and walls
• Entryways and hallways
• Outdoor patios and pool surrounds

Areas with greater exposure to spills, grease, dyes, and other contaminants will benefit the most from sealing.

When Sealing is Unnecessary

Do not seal glazed porcelain tiles. Their non-porous glazed surface prevents absorption and staining. Sealing products cannot penetrate the glaze.

Unglazed porcelain tile in low-traffic, low-moisture areas may also not need sealing. But absorption testing is recommended to confirm.

Identifying Which Tiles to Seal

To identify if your unglazed porcelain tiles should be sealed, you can do a simple water absorption test:

1. Clean a few tiles thoroughly with vinegar and water.
2. Pour a small amount of water onto the tile and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Blot dry with a paper towel and check if any moisture remains.
4. A dark spot indicates absorption, and sealing is advised.

You can also check manufacturer guidelines, which usually state if sealing is required.

Signs Your Tiles Need Sealing

Visible signs that your unglazed porcelain needs sealing include:

• Staining or dark spots when wet
• Grout appearing darker than the tile
• Liquid absorption when cleaning
• Discoloration from grease, dyes, or fingerprints

Sealing can prevent these issues by creating a protective barrier.

Choosing the Right Sealer for Porcelain

For sealing porcelain tile, a penetrating sealer is best. It sinks into pores on the surface and bonds within to prevent absorption or moisture.

Key Features to Look For

• Invisible Finish - Won't alter the tile's appearance
• Long-Lasting - Provides durable protection for years
• Breathable - Allows tile to naturally expel moisture vapor

Top-rated sealers for porcelain tile include Miracle 511 Porous Plus, DuPont StoneTech BulletProof, and Aqua Mix Sealer's Choice Gold. Be sure to check the manufacturer's recommendation.

Sealers to Avoid

Stay away from film-forming sealers which leave a plastic-like coating on top of the tile. These sealers prevent natural moisture release, often turning white or peeling off over time.

How to Seal Porcelain Tile

Sealing your tiles is a simple process you can DIY in a few steps:

1. Clean - Use pH neutral cleaner to remove dirt and residues
2. Dry - Wait until completely dry before sealing
3. Apply Sealer - Use a paint pad, roller, or sponge brush for even coverage
4. Spread and Blend - Work in sections and blend while wet to avoid streaks
5. Wipe Excess - Remove all excess sealer with towels before drying
6. Allow to Cure - Don't walk on tiles for at least 2 hours

Typically 2-3 thin coats are needed for proper sealing. Allow each coat to dry 2-3 hours before applying the next.

Tips for Getting Full Coverage

• Work in small sections of 10-15 tiles at a time
• Keep a wet edge to avoid overlaps or missing spots
• Seal from bottom up on walls to avoid drips
• Seal grout lines too for full protection

Sealing the Grout Between Tiles

Since grout is porous, it's important to seal it when sealing porcelain tiles. This prevents absorption of liquids that can lead to staining and growth of bacteria and mold.

Application Tips for Grout

• Use a thinner application of sealer to avoid excess on tiles
• Apply diagonally across joints to get full coverage
• Wipe tiles immediately to remove any stray sealer
• Reapply if grout joints appear darker than tiles

A grout sealer like Aqua Mix Sealer's Choice Gold for Grout is recommended for best results.

How Long Sealers Last on Porcelain

On floors, expect to reapply sealer every 1-2 years for high traffic areas, and every 3-5 years for low traffic. Wall tiles may only need sealing every 5-10 years unless directly exposed to moisture.

Signs It's Time to Reseal

• Visible staining on tiles from spills
• Grout appearing darker or dirtier than tiles
• Tiles feeling rough or porous again
• Increased absorption when cleaning or mopping

Be sure to make sealing porcelain tiles part of your regular maintenance routine to keep them looking their best.

Ongoing Tile Maintenance

To help keep your tile sealer lasting as long as possible:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove abrasive dirt
• Clean with pH neutral cleaners, not acidic products
• Blot spills quickly to avoid deep penetration
• Reseal high traffic floors every 1-2 years

Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, bleach, ammonia, abrasive pads, or steam cleaners which can degrade sealers over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your tile sealing is effective and long-lasting, beware of these common mistakes:

• Not cleaning tiles before sealing - Sealers won't bond if there is dirt or residue
• Using too much sealer - Overapplication can create a plastic-like film on top
• Allowing sealer to pool or dry on surface - Can lead to visible streaks or residue
• Neglecting to seal the grout - Leaves tiles unprotected from staining
• Using wrong products - Always check manufacturer recommendations

By using compatible sealers and following application instructions, you can avoid these pitfalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I seal porcelain shower tiles?

Yes, sealing porcelain tiles in showers helps prevent water absorption and buildup of soap scum, minerals, and mildew. Use a penetrating sealer suitable for wet areas.

Can I seal porcelain tile after it's installed?

Yes, porcelain tile can be sealed after installation. Ensure new grout has cured, and clean tiles thoroughly before applying sealer.

Do I need to hire a professional to seal porcelain tile?

No, sealing porcelain tile is a project a DIY homeowner can tackle. Get the right sealer, prep properly, follow instructions, and you can seal tiles yourself.

Sealing is an important step for unglazed porcelain tile installations. The right penetrating sealer will provide an invisible barrier to prevent stains and absorption. By using compatible products and proper application techniques, you can easily seal tiles yourself.

You'll feel confident with this quick seal. Taking this simple step will maintain the look and finish of your tiles for years to come.