DIY Network

Grouting 101 Before you begin that tile job, check out these grout basics. From "DIY Weekend" episode DIYW-208

There are two types of grout –– floor grout and wall grout. The difference being floor grout has sand in it and wall grout does not. Wall grout should be very smooth, like the consistency of sour cream and floor grout should be rough, like sour cream with granola in it. Do not use sanded grout for glass tile, the sand could scratch the glass.

When picking a grout color, keep in mind that grout is porous and lighter colors can become easily discolored and stained.

Grout needs to have a uniform consistency.

When mixing grout, make sure the grout is uniformly consistent and that you have no bubbles or dry spots. Be careful not to over water the grout. A common mistake a lot of people make is to over water grout so they can work in a bigger area before it dries. But, what happens is the salts in the grout come to the top and causes white lines to appear in the grout regardless of the grout’s color.

Be sure to keep your work area clean. Grout hardens fast and could end up on a surface where you don’t want it.

Spread grout diagonally.

Always spread the grout diagonally over the tile. This will prevent the edge of the trowel from digging grout out of the seam. Apply generously –– grout is not the place to get stingy.

Make sure to use the right sponge for cleaning off the grout.

Have a pail of water and some sponges ready so when you’ve finished troweling, you can immediately begin to wipe off the excess grout. Make sure to a get sponge designed specifically for grout. A regular sponge you find under your sink won’t work, particularly with sanded grout.

When finished with the grout, it is important to properly dispose of the excess. Do not throw the bucket of water you used to clean the grout down the sink or in the toilet. Grout hardens underwater, so the grout that is in the bucket will solidify in your plumbing and can destroy your toilet.