Folks

I have been asked to clean and stain the grout in a shower. A friend has bought Aqua mix phosphoric acid cleaner and aqua mix grout colourant. I am wondering if I need aqua mix sealing and coating remover or will I be fine with what I've got. Any tips on applying the cleaner/stainer would also be appreciated.

Sounds like a job for Enduro, someone will be along shortly to advise you .

TilersForums.co.uk | Tile Forums | Tiling Forum - View Profile: enduro

If I need the sealer removere then the job will need to be delayed.

Originally Posted by cm0264

If I need the sealer removere then the job will need to be delayed.

Have a look at the link,

TradeTiler.Ltd Grout Colorant

I would presume that any sealant would have to be removed prior to using a grout colourant, otherwise it may not bond.

I would give it a good clean first with Aqua mix Heavy duty tile & grout cleaner, then apply the phosphoric acid to the grout this etches the grout to give the grout colorant a better surface to adhere to. If the tiles are natural stone don't use phosphoric acid, and just be careful with any chrome fittings, shower screen etc.

Thanks for the link. I will make some phone calls tomorrow to try and confirm if sealant remover is required. Otherwise I will go ahead with what I've got. I think it will work. The video was handy.

Thanks Enduro. The tiles are ceramic and I intend to clean the tiles and grout with a 1 part acid and 3 parts water solution before agitating the grout after 2 minutes. I will then spray the tiles and grout with water and wipe off after a further 5 minutes. I will then dry the area with a rag and not apply the stainer until a further 1 hour has passed. Does this sound reasonable.

Originally Posted by cm0264

Thanks Enduro. The tiles are ceramic and I intend to clean the tiles and grout with a 1 part acid and 3 parts water solution before agitating the grout after 2 minutes. I will then spray the tiles and grout with water and wipe off after a further 5 minutes. I will then dry the area with a rag and not apply the stainer until a further 1 hour has passed. Does this sound reasonable.

As long as the grout is thoroughly dry you can apply the grout colorant.