How to Grout Tile

Before beginning your grouting project, make sure the tile is clean and dry. Use a putty knife or grout saw to chip away old grout, being careful not to damage the tile. Use a shop vac to vacuum up dust and small debris in the tile.

Once the tile is clean, use painter's tape to mask off areas where you don't want grout. Taking extra care in this step will make cleanup easier.

Before you learn how to grout tile, choose the best color grout for your project. Standard grout comes in a variety of colors.

• Pick one that complements the color of your tiles.
• For a strong and colorfast grout, get the right consistency by using as little water as possible.
• Mix thoroughly to help minimize color variation.
• Only make as much as you can use before it begins to set.

Tip: Darker grout is a better choice for high-traffic areas.

When you're ready to mix grout for your project, you'll need:

• Grout mix
• Grout additives (optional)
• Bucket
• Water
• Sponge
• Margin trowel
• Mortar mixer
• Work gloves

How to mix grout powder:

1. Begin by mixing the grout powder and pouring it into the bucket. Add 3/4 of total water amount needed.
2. Mix with a trowel or mortar mixer tool.
3. Mix in additives, if using.
4. Soak grout sponge in water and use it to squeeze in water as needed.
5. Mix until dry grout powder is incorporated and no clumps remain. Consistency should resemble smooth peanut butter.
6. Let grout sit for 10 minutes to slake. After resting, briefly mix it again and use immediately.

How to apply grout:

1. Pour a quart to half gallon of grout on tiles.
2. Use a hard-edged rubber grout float and hold it at a 45-degree angle.
3. Spread the material in sweeping arcs, pressing it into the joints to fill them completely.
4. Work in a small area at a time, roughly a 3- x 3-foot section.
5. Use this method for both pre-mixed and powdered grout.

Sweep the float diagonally across the tiles to remove the excess grout.

• Wait a few minutes while the grout begins to harden.
• Wipe the tiles in a circular motion with a damp grout sponge.
• Be careful not to drag out any grout from the corners of the tiles.

• 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.

• Let the grout dry for the length of time recommended by the manufacturer before applying grout sealer.
• Spread the sealer with a small paint brush or a sealer applicator.
• Clean off any smears within the first five minutes.
• Let the grout dry for at least 24 hours.

• Caulk acts as both a sealer and as an expansion joint.
• Caulk will flex if the floor expands or contracts as the weather changes. In wet areas, fill the gap with caulk and smooth with a wet finger.
• This includes in front of a bathtub or shower, or wherever the expansion gap will not be covered with shoe moulding.