Is sealent needed with a polymer grout ( shower tile)????

[kc567567]

As the title asks ... is a polymer based non-sanded grout in need of a penetrating sealer ...... as the Home Depot sales guy suggested?

KC

[jadnashua]

A sealer helps. Is it absolutely necessary, no. One thing people often don't realize, is that grout is not waterproof...water resistant, but not waterproof. A sealer helps when it comes time to clean things, as it resists oil and other scum that otherwise likes to adhere.

[geniescience]

if your grout is 100% epoxy, you don't seal it.
if your grout has a polymer additive in Portland cement grout, you can seal it.

[jadnashua]

Also note, most ceramic tiles will not absorb any sealer, and, if left in place to dry will cause streaks that can be difficult to remove. Follow the instructions and buff off before it dries.