Got dirty grout lines and grimy tile floors making your space look drab? It might be time to call in the professionals for deep-clean tile and grout services. But how much does tile and grout cleaning cost what can you expect to pay? Let’s break it down.
Average Tile Cleaning Prices
Most homeowners can expect to pay between $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot for professional tile and grout cleaning services. However, this is just a rough estimate – the actual tile and grout cleaners and cleaning costs can vary quite a bit depending on several key factors.
To give you a better idea, here are some sample pricing ranges based on area size:
- Small bathroom (50 sq ft): $50 – $100
- Large bathroom (100 sq ft): $100 – $200
- Kitchen (150 sq ft): $150 – $300
- Living room (300 sq ft): $300 – $600
Instead of per-square-foot tile pricing, some companies may charge a flat rate, typically $200 to $500 for an average home.
What Affects Grout Cleaning Services Costs
Beyond the basic square footage, several other variables can impact the overall tile cleaning cost:
Room Size
According to Home Advisor, on average, homeowners pay between $0.50 and $1 per square foot for professional tile and grout cleaning services. The square footage of the area being epoxy grout cleaned is one of the biggest factors in determining cost. Larger rooms like living rooms and basements will cost more than smaller spaces like bathrooms. Many companies price by the square foot, so the total grout cleaning cost directly scales with the room size.
Tile Type
Different tile materials require specialized cleaning methods and solutions. Porous, natural stone tiles like travertine, slate, or limestone are more porous and delicate, making grout cleaner them more challenging and time-consuming to clean properly without causing damage. As a result, porous tiles typically cost more for grout cleaning than non-porous options like glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles.
Grout Condition
The current state of the grout lines plays a major role in service pricing. If the grout is newer and only has surface dirt and discoloration, a basic grout and cleaning solution may suffice. However, older grout that is heavily stained, crumbling, or missing will likely require more intensive grout repair or grout restoration services at a higher cost.
Service Level/Cleaning Method
The specific type of cleaning service and methods used can impact pricing. Basic surface cleaning using truck-mounted machines and pH-balanced cleaners is the most affordable option.
More comprehensive grout cleaning prices with methods like truck-mounted hot water extraction, vapor systems, or specialized grout cleaning tools/solutions command higher rates. Additional services like grout sealing, coloring, or restoration raise costs further.
Company
Different tile and grout cleaning companies can charge vastly different rates based on their experience levels, equipment quality, types of solutions used, staffing/overhead costs, and location within a geographic market. Be sure to get multiple quotes, as there may be significant price variances between providers even within the same city.
Grout Restoration
In cases of extremely old, heavily deteriorated grout, a full grout restoration may be necessary. This laborious process involves completely removing the existing grout and re-grouting the entire tile installation – substantially more involved than a standard grout cleaning price. Grout restoration jobs are typically priced at premium rates given the time, expertise, and materials involved.
No two jobs are exactly alike, so be sure to get personalized quotes tailored to your specific situation.
Additional Costs to Consider
Tile Repair or Refinishing
If the tile itself is cracked, chipped, or excessively worn, tile repair or tile refinishing services may also be recommended in conjunction with grout cleaning. These are separate processes with additional costs based on the extent of tile damage.
Recoloring Grout
For renewing the appearance of old, discolored grout, grout recoloring services use specialized pigments to restore the grout to a like-new color. This adds to the total service cost but can provide a dramatic visual transformation at a fraction of the cost of replacing all grout.
Benefits of Hiring Pros
While the upfront grout tile cleaning cost tile might seem steep, there are many benefits to using professional tile and grout cleaning services:
- Improved Appearance – Even the most stubborn dirt and discoloration are no match for heavy-duty professional equipment and solutions. Expect truly revitalized tile floors and clean grout lines.
- Longer Lifespan – Regular deep cleaning removes abrasive particles that can wear down and damage grout over time. This protects your investment in tile flooring.
- Better Results – With specialized tools, knowledge, and cleaning methods, professionals achieve a level of cleaning that DIY scrubbing simply can’t match.
- Convenience – Let’s be honest – grout cleaning is tedious, backbreaking work. Why not leave it to the experts?
- Safer Solutions – Professionals use grout cleaners and other solutions specially designed for tile and grout, avoiding potential damage from harsh DIY cleaners.
While you can certainly try cleaning the tile and grout yourself, the results won’t compare to a professional cleaner. Think of professional grout cleaning services as an affordable way to essentially restore your floors.
Tips for Saving Money
Even with the benefits, some cash-savvy tips can help minimize your tile cleaning cost:
Schedule Regular Cleanings
The longer you wait between deep cleans, the more difficult (and expensive) it becomes to clean tile floors, remove ground dirt, and restore the grout. Aim for annual service to maintain your floors.
Spot Clean High-Traffic Areas
Grout lines in kitchens, entryways, and other high-use zones may need more frequent spot grout cleaning every 6 months.
Target Problem Areas Only
If the overall tile and grout condition is decent, you may only need affordable spot treatments for discolored sections instead of a full cleaning.
Compare Companies and Bundle
Get at least 3 quotes and look for bundle pricing discounts when combining grout cleaning with other services like carpet cleaning.
Practice Good Maintenance
Simple steps like regular vacuuming, prompt spill clean-up, using grout sealers, and light scrubbing with a grout sealer and cleaners can maximize the time between professional cleanings.
The Verdict? Well Worth It
While upfront tile floor grout cleaning costs might make you pause, the value of professional tile and grout cleaning services simply can’t be overstated. By revitalizing your floors, you get:
- A refreshed, clean appearance
- Protection against future staining/damage
- Years of added lifespan for your flooring
- Convenience and pristine results
When you consider the costs of replacing floors entirely, paying for tile cleaning and grout doctor service is an exceptional value. Don’t let dirty, unsightly grout detract from your home any longer. An expert tile and grout cleaning can instantly restore your floors’ beauty without breaking the bank.
