Tile sealing or impregnation: The ultimate guide

We will show you how you can better protect the lifetime and quality of your tiles.

There are two main processes in the care and protection of tiles: sealing and impregnation.

In this article, we will discuss the differences, uses, and pros and cons of both methods to help you make the best decision for your tiles.

1. Differences between sealing and impregnation

1.1 Tile sealing

Tile sealers are protective layers that are applied to the surface of tiles.

They serve to pre-tile:

• pollution
• humidity
• and abrasion

to protect.

Our experience: sealers can be applied to various materials such as ceramics, stone or concrete.

1.2 Benefits of tile sealing

1. Protection against stains and dirt
   
   
2. Increased resistance to moisture and mold
   
   
3. Extended tile life
   
   
4. Easier cleaning and maintenance

1.3 Tile impregnation

Impregnations penetrate deep into the pores of the tiles, protecting them from moisture and dirt.

Please note: In contrast to sealing, the surface of the tiles remains unchanged and there is no film on the surface.

Impregnations are particularly suitable for natural stone tiles that have a high porosity.

1.4 Advantages of tile impregnation

1. Protection against staining and water damage
   
   
2. No visible change in the tile surface
   
   
3. Increased resistance to abrasion and scratches
   
   
4. Ideal for natural stone tiles with high porosity

2. Areas of application for sealing and impregnation

2.1 Sealing in residential areas

Tile sealants are particularly suitable for living areas such as living rooms, bedrooms and hallways.

High moisture resistance is less important here than protection against abrasion and dirt.

2.2 Impregnation in wet rooms

In damp rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens, tiles should be impregnated to protect them from water damage.

Natural stone tiles in particular benefit from impregnation, as they are protected from moisture and stains without affecting their natural appearance.

Our experience: Prepare soiled natural stone tiles using diamond grinding pads before impregnating.

2.3 Exterior sealing

Sealing is the best choice for outdoor areas, such as terraces or balconies. It protects the tiles from the effects of the weather and abrasion, thus extending their lifespan.

2.4 Seal joints

Joints are the spaces between tiles and play a crucial role in the longevity and appearance of the entire surface.

Sealing the grout is an extra step to increase the protection and lifespan of tiles and grout.

Benefits of joint sealing

1. Protection against moisture, mold and staining
   
   
2. Ease of cleaning and maintenance
   
   
3. Improving the appearance of the entire surface
   
   
4. Better overall picture if the tiles are also processed

Areas of application for joint sealing

1. Joint sealing in living areas - In living areas such as living rooms, bedrooms and hallways, joint sealing is a useful addition to tile sealing. It offers additional protection against dirt and abrasion and increases the lifespan of the joints.
   
   
2. Joint sealing in damp rooms - In damp rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens, sealing the joints is particularly important to prevent moisture and mold growth. Here the joint sealing should be used in combination with the tile impregnation to ensure optimal protection.
   
   
3. Joint sealing outdoors - Even outdoors, such as on terraces or balconies, joint sealing should not be neglected. It protects the joints from the weather and increases the lifespan of the entire surface.

Joint sealing instructions

1. Thoroughly clean tiles and joints, sand tile joints if necessary and allow to dry.
   
   
2. Select joint sealing product according to manufacturer's instructions.
   
   
3. Apply joint sealing with a brush or a special joint sponge.
   
   
4. Remove excess product from the tiles with a clean cloth.
   
   
5. Adhere to the drying time according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The combination of tile sealing or impregnation and joint sealing achieves comprehensive protection for tiles and joints, which increases the lifespan and appearance of the entire surface.

3. Instructions for sealing and impregnating tiles

Step 1: Preparation

1. Thoroughly clean tiles and allow to dry.
   
   
2. Repair cracks or holes in the tiles.
   
   

   Our opinion: If you discover a damaged tile, it should be replaced.
   
   

3. Degrease tiles to ensure optimal adhesion of the protective product.

Step 2: Applying the seal or impregnation

1. Select protective product (sealing or impregnation) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
   
   
2. Apply protective product evenly with a brush or roller.
   
   
3. Remove excess product with a clean cloth.
   
   
4. Adhere to the drying time according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 3: Post-treatment

1. Clean the tiles again after the protective product has dried.
   
   
2. If necessary, apply a second coat to increase protection.
   
   
3. Allow tiles to dry thoroughly.

4. Maintenance and care

Cleaning of sealed tiles

1. Sweep regularly with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner.
   
   
2. If necessary, clean with a damp cloth or mop and a mild detergent.
   
   
3. Do not use harsh chemicals to avoid damaging the seal.

Our tip: Use a high-quality sponge board for very efficient cleaning of the tiles.

Cleaning of impregnated tiles

1. Sweep regularly with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner.
   
   
2. If necessary, clean with a damp cloth or mop and a cleaning agent suitable for natural stone.
   
   
3. Be careful not to use acidic cleaning agents, as these can attack the natural stone.

Other helpful tile guides:

• Grinding and polishing tiles
• drilling tiles
• cutting tiles

5. Diagram: Tile sealing vs. impregnation

6. Summary

The choice between tile sealing and impregnation depends on the requirements of the respective area of ​​application.

Sealers offer comprehensive protection for tiles in residential areas, while impregnations are better suited for wet rooms and natural stone tiles.

With the correct use and care of both methods, tiles and joints can be optimally protected and preserved.

7. FAQ - Frequently asked questions about sealing and impregnating tiles and joints

1. Which method is best for protecting residential tiles - sealing or impregnation?
   
   For the protection of tiles in residential areas, the sealant is best because it protects against abrasion and dirt and increases moisture resistance.
   

2. Can I seal natural stone tiles or should I always impregnate them?
   
   Natural stone tiles should usually be impregnated, since impregnations penetrate deep into the pores of the tiles without affecting the natural appearance of the tile surface.
   

3. How often should I seal or waterproof my tiles and grout?
   
   ​​​The frequency of application of sealers or impregnations depends on the use and wear and tear of the tiles. In general, it is recommended to seal or waterproof the tiles every 2-5 years. The joints will vary in frequency as needed, but it is advisable to inspect them regularly and seal if there are signs of wear or mold growth.
   

4. Which cleaning agents are suitable for the care of sealed and impregnated tiles?
   
   Mild cleaning agents that do not contain aggressive chemicals should be used to care for sealed tiles in order not to damage the seal. Cleaning agents that have been specially developed for natural stone and do not contain any acidic components are suitable for impregnated tiles, as these can attack the stone.
   

5. How does joint sealing differ from tile sealing or impregnation?
   
   Joint sealing refers specifically to the protection of the joints between tiles, while tile sealing or impregnation protects the tile surface itself. Joint sealing offers additional protection against moisture, mold and staining and makes cleaning and maintaining the joints easier.