by 
The Curious Bag
-
<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Most Tile Doesn't Need Sealing
Often, tile that is used to make a mosaic backsplash does not need to be sealed before grouting. The reason tile is sealed is to prevent discoloration over time due to conditions in a kitchen such as water or steam. Since most of the tile used for this type of project is made of smooth glass, that shouldn't be a factor.
On the Other: For Some Tile, Sealing is Recommended
If you choose a tile that is porous, such as unglazed porcelain or unpolished stone, the use of a sealant is recommended. It is also a good idea to seal the tiles both before and after grouting the mosaic. This way the sealant can both help prevent the grout from staining the tile and future use from staining the grout.
Bottom Line
Experts say that if you don't have to seal a tile, then don't. The best test for the stone you plan on using for your mosaic is to place water on the surface and time how long it takes to absorb into the tile. If it takes under a minute, the stone is very porous and sealing is probably a good idea. If the water beads on the surface, the tile has a low porosity and doesn't need a sealant.
Source:
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC