Ceramic tile around a fireplace

cme

This summer we built on an addition which included a built-in fireplace. We decided to put ceramic tile around the outside of the fireplace as well as on the floor in front of it. It says once I am done putting on the grout, I used sanded grout, I am supposed to leave it cure for a few days (72 hours) and then put on a sealer. My question is what kind of sealer do I use since this is around a fireplace which gets warm, does not get wet at all, and is not in a damp area. Everything I have read talks about using tile in a shower area which is frequently wet and a damp area. If I would only wait 24 hours for it to cure and use the fireplace will this cause the grout to start chipping or crumbling? Please help, I can't find this answer anywhere.
cme

Bob Mariani

use regular grout sealer. This is used to reduce the viscosity of the grout. If it absorbs less then it will be easier to clean. So to help from the soot staining your grout seal it. I would seal it twice waiting 24 hours before the second coat. And reseal again in two years. The heat should not hurt the grout too much.

cme

Thanks for replying Bob!
So then do I still have to wait 72 hours before sealing (while the grout cures)? Can I use the fireplace without the sealer? Can I apply the sealer if the area around the fireplace is warm/hot?

Bob Mariani

yes you can use the fireplace

cme

Thank you for being kind enough to help me, it is greatly appreciated!