Grout is the product used to complete the spaces between the ceramic tiles. Cement based grouts are most often used for residential installations. There are three general levels of grout.
UNSANDED: typically for walls – for maximum 1/8 inch joint that are widths
SANDED LEVEL: used for 1/8″ – 1/4″ inch joints
QUARRY LEVEL: uses coarser sand for joints in excess of 1/4 inch
The two levels that are sanded are somewhat more abrasive but are not considerably weaker and must be used for floorings.
Grout must not be used for at least 24 hours after the tiles have been placed. Clean the surface of all debris and protruding pieces of bonding substance.
The cement in grouting stuff is what makes it difficult and requires a reasonable time to fully harden. The hardness can be reduced if grout dries to fast. To enhance the ensuing grout dampen (not soak) the joints between the tiles and hour or so before applying the grout. This can be done with a moist rag, brush, sponge, spray bottle etc.
Mix the Grout:
Almost no mix is needed to equally mix the grout when combining dry powder grouts with water or a liquid grout additive. Enable moisture to dissipate simpler over mix can entrap air bubbles that might raise shrinkage and can influence the entire uniformity of colour. To reduce air bubbles add the liquid to the powder rather than the other way around. DON’T MAKE THE COMBINATION RUNNY! Combination to about the consistency of peanut butter. Let sit for about five minutes afterward softly remix. Using latex additive when the colour and surface hardness greatly enhances.
Applying the Grout:
1. Apply the grout into the joints with a rubber-faced grouting float or trowel. To prevent internal emptiness package the grout into the joints. After the joints are complete, use the float to level off the grout joints and to squeegee the excess grout off the surface of the tile.
2. Let grout dry for about a quarter hour. Using a spray bottle spray on a misting of water on the whole surface. Instantly use the float trowel and repeat the procedure that is squeegee smooth out grout joints and to remove surface grout.
3. Let the grout sit about half an hour, then use a moist (not wet) sponge and lightly wipe surface of the tile. Don’t use a circular movement with the sponge, use angled strokes so as to not disturb the grout lines.
4. When the grout is difficult and not subject to damage fine dust deposits can easily be removed with a clean dry material the subsequent day. Let a minimum 12 hours to harden before additional washing or in the instance of the floorings walking them.
5. All cement should be sealed to keep their look and reduce cleaning issues. Grout must be permitted before applying a sealer to cure for a minimum of one week.
It is Only That Simple!