Is this your first time grouting tile? There are a few tips and short cuts to achieve a good tile finish. Skip these and your grout could end up a disaster.
#1. Get organized before you start. You will need three large buckets, clean water in two of the buckets. A sponge with rounded corners, a grout float, a grout trowel, grout powder and a dust mask.
#2. Make sure the tile setting adhesive has been given enough time to cure before grouting. Use a utility knife to remove any excess adhesive from the tile setting.
#3. Plan the work. You don't want to walk on any newly grouted tiles. Also, concentrate on a small area like 10 square feet, finish applying the grout in that area before moving on to the next area.
#4. Mix the grout in small amounts, about enough to cover a 10 square foot area. That way you'll have time to apply it before it sets. Mix it thoroughly. It should have the consistency of toothpaste when mixed correctly.
#5. Apply the grout using the float. Dump some grout onto the tiles and pack it into the joints using a 45 degree angle. Keep the float moving. Grout will set in around 30 minutes.
#6. Once you've packed the seams with grout, use a 90 degree angle on the float to remove excess grout. Follow up with a damp sponge.
#7. When the grout is no longer soft to the touch, it's time to clean up. This could be around 15 to 30 minutes. Use a clean damp sponge to wipe the tiles in a circular motion. Keep rinsing the sponge clean and ring out until it is just damp. When you are left with a light haze on the tile, switch to wiping diagonally across the tiles until the haze is cleaned up.
Learn how to grout tile like a pro and pick up lots of time and labor saving tips. When grouting tile, get it right first time with this set of how to tile videos. Find out how to avoid lots of mistakes when grouting tile. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_McIntyre |
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