The cost of tile & grout cleaning can vary depending on many factors. Most professional cleaning services charge a per-square-foot fee that includes their labor and supplies. This is typically based on the size of the area being cleaned, but some cleaners offer a flat rate or hourly rates.
Grout is a mixture of cement, sand and water that is filled between tiles during installation. It is highly porous and easily absorbs dirt, grease, grime and mildew. Left untreated, this grime can cause a dirty, dull appearance. Regular cleaning of tiles and grout can help to remove these substances and extend the life of the tile surface.
Keeping your grout clean can be easy. Regularly spray the grout with a commercial tile cleaner and scrub with a brush (an old toothbrush works great) to remove any existing grime. Be sure to use a non-abrasive brush and a non-toxic cleaner. Abrasive brushes and chemicals can damage the grout and degrade or even discolor it. Alternatively, you can try to recolor your grout with a do-it-yourself solution. Danny Lipford explains how to do this: Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar in a cup until it reaches the consistency of a paste. Apply the mixture to the grout and scrub with a bristled brush or gloved hand. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 15 minutes so that the bleaching oxygen ions can break down the stain.
Many cleaning services provide a variety of methods for Tile & Grout cleaning cost, including steam cleaning, high pressure rinsing and hand/spot cleaning. They can also add a sealant to the grout to protect it from future staining. If you’re unsure what method will work best for your tile, ask your cleaning service to recommend the right one for your home.
Your cleaning service should provide you with an estimated cost before beginning the job. This should include the overall price for both the tile and grout cleaning, as well as any additional services you may want to have done. The most common extra service is to reseal the grout, which can cost an average of $4 per square foot.
The condition of the tile and grout can impact your cleaning costs, as well as how much time the job will take to complete. The more damage and staining there is to the tile and grout, the more difficult it will be to clean. It’s also important to consider how accessible the area is for your cleaning professional. If the area is hard to access with the normal cleaning equipment, it can increase the cost.
Other additional costs you may encounter include materials and equipment delivery, preparation of the worksite, labor planning and setup, cleanup, and achieving minimum job hours agreed to before the work begins. Additional labor charges may be applied for master/premium craftsmanship, difficult site conditions and other circumstances at the service provider’s discretion. These extra costs should be discussed and understood before the contract is signed.