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Grouting
is the process of filling the
spaces between the tiles. The
filler – grout – comes in
powder form in premixed colors.
Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions to mix it. For a
strong and colorfast grout, get
the right consistency using the
least amount of water possible.
Mix thoroughly to minimize color
variation. Only make as much as
you can use before it begins to
set. Keep any leftover dry grout
for future repairs.
Before grouting, let the tile
adhesive cure for at least 24
hours. Remove the spacers with a
spacer puller and clean any
adhesive out of the grout lines
with a bristle brush before
applying the grout.
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SKILL SCALE
Medium
TIME
REQUIRED
You
can grout ceramic tiles in a
5x7-foot bathroom in one hour.
Sealing the grout will take
about 30 minutes.
TOOLS
Grout
float
Sponge
Soft cloths
Small paintbrush
Caulking gun
MATERIALS
Grout
Sealer
Caulk
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Pour
a quart to half gallon of grout
on the tiles. Holding a
hard-edged rubber grout float at
a 30-degree angle, spread the
material in sweeping arcs,
pressing it into the joints to
fill them completely. |
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Hold
the grout float at a 90-degree
angle and sweep it diagonally
across the tiles to remove any
excess grout. |
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Wait
a few minutes while the grout
begins to harden. Wipe the tiles
in a circular motion with a damp
sponge, taking care not to drag
out any of the grout from the
corners of the tiles. |
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Once
the grout has hardened, the
tiles will be left with a slight
haze on them. Clean it up by
going over the area lightly with
a damp cloth, then buff
immediately with a dry cloth. |
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Let
the grout dry for the length of
time recommended by the
manufacturer before applying
sealer. Spread the sealer with a
small paintbrush or a sealer
applicator. Clean off any smears
within the first 5 minutes or
so. Then let the grout dry for
at least 24 hours. |
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Caulk
acts as both a sealer and as an
expansion joint: it will flex if
the floor expands or contracts
as the weather changes. In wet
areas, in front of a bathtub or
shower, or wherever the
expansion gap will not be
covered with shoe molding, fill
the gap with caulk and smooth it
with a wet finger. |
