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Flagstone Floor for a Kitchen DIY's intrepid stone warriors tackle a kitchen floor using quartzite tile for a natural stone look. From "Rock Solid" episode DROC-312

(Continued from page 3)

Figure A

Mixing Grout

• Choose a grout that will match the color of the slate. Dean and Derek use a gray grout for this project. You can select from many different colors at your local supplier. It is also a good idea to use a sanded grout for this floor.

• Rock Solid Tip: Use sanded grout when your joints are wider than 1/8 inch.

• Mix the grout by hand in a clean bucket with clean water (figure A). Remember to wear a mask, and mix the grout and water together slowly by hand. Add water until you have the grout is the consistency of thick peanut butter.
  

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  	Figure B
  	Figure D
  	Figure C
  	The finished kitchen, with quartzite flagstone tile floor

Using a rubber grout float, work the grout into the joints, making sure that you fill them solidly (figure B). Be aware that this process may take a long time. Firmly push the grout into all the joints between the stones and along the perimeter. You may even need to use your finger in hard to reach areas. As you grout an area, use a sponge to wipe down the stone. You'll clean the floor more thoroughly when you complete grouting, but wiping the stones as you work (figure C) will make clean up much easier.

Rock Solid Tip: Use rubber gloves while grouting. They will protect your hands as you move between the grout and the water.

Once you finish grouting, you will see a hazy film on the surface of the stones. This is the grout. You need to clean this off completely. Sponge the stones down with clean water at least twice. Then mop the whole floor with clean water. Clean the floor until the film is gone.

Grout Sealer

Once the grout has cured, seal all the joints with a grout sealer (figure D). The sealer protects the grout and helps prevent staining.

Rock Solid Tip: You can use a liquid sealer or an aerosol sealer. If you use an aerosol sealer make sure the room is well-ventilated.

• Pour some sealer into a cup. Using a small brush, apply the sealer to the joints. Saturate the grout with the sealer. Let it dry for at least 30 minutes.

• Once everything is dry, slide the appliances back in place.

• If you want, you can apply a color enhancer 48 hours after installation. The color enhancer comes in different finishes, like matte or glossy, and brings out the vibrancy in the stone.

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RESOURCES :

Tiles by Perfection
www.tilesbyperfection.com