Applying Grout on Tile Joints

It is always advisable to follow the precise instructions for mixing grout. A normal mix ratio would be one quart of water for every 10-pound bag of grout. Clean water is first poured into a mixing container, and the powder is added. Mixing can be done by hand using a margin trowel and mixing for about two to three minutes. However, best results can be achieved by using a ring paddle and 1/2" heavy-duty drill. Before applying the grout on the substrate, stir the mixture again to ensure a smooth, creamy and lump-free consistency.

Check first if the tile joints are clean and free of dust, mortar and foreign matter. Use a rubber float to apply the grout to the floor or wall tile joints. Make sure that the joints are completely filled by forcing a maximum quantity of grout into the joints. The finished joint should be smooth with no pinholes, voids or low spots. For worry-free installations, it is also recommended to hire professional tile setters for these types of jobs.

Excess Grout

For excess grout, allow the grout to set firmly in the joints before using the rubber float to carefully scrape or plow out the excess, avoiding to gouge into the filled joints. Dampen the entire the area with a minimum amount of water and let it stand for about one minute. Use one side of a lightly damp sponge to clean the face of the tile and then turn it over on the next pass. After two passes, rinse the sponge thoroughly, soak it again with clean water and repeat, until the excess grout has been completely removed.

Finishing the Job

After the grout has hardened in the joints, wipe off any remaining dry film on the tile surface by finishing or polishing with a damp terry cloth or similar pad. A good amount of waiting time would be around 90 minutes, after which tiled floors and wall areas can be used.

It is important to note that the amount of grout required will depend on the tile size, depth, and joint width. One unit comprising 10 lbs of grout will cover around 100 square feet of standard 8" x 8" paver tiles, with joints 1/4" wide and 3/16" deep. For 6" x 6" tile with similarly sized joints, one unit of grout for about 85 square feet will be needed.

, Using Ceramic Tiles.com
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