DIY Network

Tiling a Foyer: Grouting the Tile From "Tiling Techniques" episode DTIL-102

	In this episode of DIY's Tiling Techniques workshop, this plain foyer is converted into ...
	a dazzling entryway by adding a tile medallion.
	And the medallion look is continued up the staircase!

In this segment, host Paul Wilson completes the job by grouting.

Materials:

Carpenter's pencils
Razor blade
Steel tape measure
Grout float
Notched trowel
Margin trowel
Hydra sponges
Rubber gloves
Two 5gal. buckets
Tile cutter
Power jamb cutter
Dry masonry saw
Hand backerboard cutter
1/2" drill motor
Rod type paddle mixer
3/8" drill
Rubber mallet with beating block
Chalk line and chalk
Flat pry bar
Hammer
Chisel
Floor scraper
Broom
Shop vac
Dust mask
Paintbrush
Safety glasses
Ear protection

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Grouting

1. Mix the grout per the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Wet the tile with a sponge and try to avoid leaving any standing water in the joints.

3. Apply the grout with a laminated grout float (figure A).

4. Push the grout over the face of the tiles diagonally with the flat edge of float to cut off excess grout. Make sure to fill in the holes and voids on the tile.

   Note: When grouting the stair risers, be sure to place some cardboard on the treads to catch any grout that may fall form the risers.

5. Work in small manageable areas, and continue the process over the entire floor until all joints have been grouted.

   Note: Grouting stone tiles is similar to grouting any other type of tile, however, you will need to fill any holes and voids for this particular type of tile.

6. With a nearly dry sponge, tool the grout (figure B) to eliminate pinholes, voids, highs and low spots.

7. Allow grout to set and haze over>

8. Do a final wipe with a nearly dry sponge pulled diagonally over the face of the tile to remove any grout residue.

   Note: Grout should set for 24 hours before you can walk on it.
   

   Figure C

   Sealing the Tile and Grout

9. Wait from 48 to 72 hours before applying sealant to the tile and grout (this depends on the instructions on the particular sealant you choose).

10. Apply the sealant to both the grout joints and the tile face.

11. Apply with a paintbrush (figure C).

RESOURCES :

Foyer Tiling Products Information (Home Depot)

Westminster Tumbled Field Tile
Chiaro 6"x6"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00606

Westminster Tumbled Field Tile
Noce 6"x6"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00611

Westminster Tumbled Field Tile
Bottichino 6"x6"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00612

Westminster Medallion
Basilicata 24"x24"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00533

Grout by Custom
Color: Bone (sanded)
Model #: 123-852 (25 lb. bag)

Thin set (Modified Thin Set Mortar by Custom)
Model #: 399-727

Where available: Home Depot

The Home Depot U.S.A. Inc.
Website: www.homedepot.com