Recently I’ve gotten some email questions about grouting tile. The topic is really not as intimidating as it seems at first glance. And actually, it only takes a small bit of practice to get the technique down pat. To begin, you will need these tools and materials:
- Grout. It comes either sanded or non-sanded, powder or pre-mixed, in a wide variety of colors. I like to use pre-mixed grout for small jobs and mixable powder for larger ones. I do not recommend the fast-drying grout for anything other than the smallest jobs.
- A grout sponge. Any sponge will do, but a specially designed one makes the job easier.
- A bucket with water.
- Cheesecloth.
- High quality grout sealer.
The first thing to do after the mortar, thinset, or mastic has set is to plan your course of action. In other words, don’t paint yourself into the corner. Next, plan to do an area that you can reach while sitting or kneeling on the floor. You’ll remove the tile spacers as you go.
Wet the sponge and wring it out in the bucket. Scoop some grout onto the moist sponge and begin to sweep it across the floor, working the grout into the joints. Now, flush the sponge out again and wipe across the tiles just grouted.
The point here is to remove the grout from the tile surface and achieve a slight concave in the joints. The tile surfaces should be as clean as possible to reduce clean-up later.
When finished, let the grout dry and cure for the recommended time. Use the cheesecloth to remove grout film and polish the tile surface. Finish up by applying the grout sealer. I like to let the first coat dry and then add a second one. Done!
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Friday, 5. February 2010
It’s worth noting that it pays to change out the water in the bucket frequently. Otherwise, there will always be a heavy glaze until you clean it off with the cheesecloth.
Monday, 1. March 2010
Thanks!
Wednesday, 31. March 2010
This is my first time to visit your blog and I would say you share nice information. You definitely do research and write very well. Keep it up!
Wednesday, 12. May 2010
Thanks for the entertaining read! Alright playtime is over and back to school work.
Sunday, 16. May 2010
Was seeking for the word and got to your webpage. I wish to add,typically the most popular tile is the ceramic tile which offers a extremely attractive look and strength to floor finishes. These come in numerous various sizes and colors to go with the decor of any room and are uncomplicated to install on floors and also to walls. These tiles have one major requirement: you ought to have a smooth and rigid floor to support the installation. Ceramic tiles are not flexible, so they can crack if installed over a rough surface or thin floor. Therefore you will need to make the floor smooth and plain just before installing the tiles. Got so much to discuss but will next time.