Do Porcelain Tiles Need Sealing?

Porcelain tiles make an excellent addition to any home. They’re durable, versatile, and not to mention stylish — what’s not to love?
One of the many benefits of porcelain tiles is that they are low-maintenance, but one of the most frequently asked questions we hear is, “Do porcelain tiles need to be sealed?”

Do Porcelain Tiles Need To Be Sealed?

The short answer to this question is no, porcelain tiles do not need to be sealed.

Porcelain tiles are naturally water-resistant, stain-resistant, slip-resistant, and scratch-resistant, so sealing is not required. However, if you have untreated porcelain tiles (tiles that did not come pre-glazed), they can be more vulnerable to damage.

What Is Tile Sealing?

Tile sealing is the process of applying a protective coating to tiles, making them more resistant to stains and water damage. Sealing tiles can also make them far easier to clean.

Read More: What You Need To Know About Sealing Tiles

What Happens If I Don’t Seal My Porcelain Tiles?

As porcelain tiles are naturally resistant to water damage and staining, it is unlikely that they will suffer any adverse effects from not being sealed. However, over time and with extended use, porcelain tiles can experience wear and become more prone to damage.

Sealing your porcelain tiles can help restore them to their former glory and reduce the chance of wear-and-tear damage.

What Is The Best Sealer For Porcelain Tiles?

The best sealer for porcelain tiles depends on the finish of the tiles and whether they are used indoors or outdoors.

Generally, penetrating sealers are the best fit for porcelain tiles because they can penetrate the small holes and grout lines, offering lasting protection. Penetrating sealers don’t form a surface layer, so they won’t affect the appearance of the tiles and won’t make them slippery, which can lead to slips, trips, and falls.

If you’re looking for protection to target the grout specifically, you can also opt for a grout sealer. Grout is significantly more porous than porcelain tiles, and in damp areas like the bathroom, utilising a good grout sealer can help prevent discolouration and mildew.

Do Outside Porcelain Tiles Need To Be Sealed?

Whether inside or outside, porcelain tiles are highly durable. While sealing isn’t always necessary, adding a tile sealer to outdoor porcelain tiles can help add an extra layer of defence against the elements.

Over time, your outdoor porcelain tiles will be exposed to rain, wind, and cold temperatures that can gradually wear down the surface of your tiles. Sealing outdoor porcelain tiles can help protect them from harsh conditions and extend their lifespan.

Does Sealing A Porcelain Tile Make It Shiny?

This can depend on the type of tile sealer you use. Penetrating sealers sink deep into the pores of the tile and won’t affect the overall finish of your tile. However, using a surface sealer (also known as a topical sealer) creates a layer that sits on top of the tile, which can add an extra shine.

The type of finish you want for your porcelain tiles should be considered when deciding whether to use any sealer on them.

How To Tell If Porcelain Tiles Need Sealing?

If your porcelain tiles are retaining water, it’s a sign that they could benefit from sealing. Luckily, there’s a pretty simple test you can do to determine if your tiles need sealing, and this test works for a range of different tiles, not just porcelain.

Simply press a damp sponge against your tile for 10 seconds. If the water leaves a dark mark, it’s an indicator that your tiles are retaining water and need to be sealed.

Can You Walk On Porcelain Tiles After Sealing?

The amount of time recommended between sealing tiles and walking on them can vary depending on the sealant used.

Most tile sealants are touch-dry within a few hours of application, but it is generally advised to wait 24 hours to allow the adhesive sufficient time to dry. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding and follow the application guidelines as directed.

Find Porcelain Tiles That Are Already Pre-sealed With Modern Garden

Porcelain tiles are the ideal choice if you’re looking for low-maintenance, high-impact tiles for your home. The best part? At Modern Garden, you can rest assured that your new porcelain tiles are ready to install with no sealing needed.

For premium elegance, our Primera porcelain tiles are just the ticket. Working with a tighter budget? Our Classico tiles can give your home a touch of class without breaking the bank.
Our collection includes a variety of coloured porcelain tiles, from grey and wood effect to white and sizes including 600 x 600 and 900 x 600, so you’re sure to find the perfect porcelain tiles for your project.

If you have any questions about our porcelain tile range at Modern Garden, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. A member of our customer service team will be happy to answer any questions you may have.