DIY Network

Porch: Grouting the Floor From "Tiling Techniques" episode DTIL-105

	In this episode of DIY's Tiling Techniques workshop, host Paul Wilson improved the look of this screened-in porch and ...
	improved the bumpy flooring by ...
	adding new tile that's easy on the feet and eyes.
	A tiled border adds color to the flooring.
	And with the leftover pieces of tile, Wilson created mosaic tops for the tables.

In this segment, host Paul Wilson will grout the floor.

Materials:

Carpenter's pencils
Razor blade
Steel tape measure
Grout float
Notched trowel
Margin trowel
Hydra sponges
Two 5-gal. buckets
Tile cutter
Safety glasses
Ear protection
Dust mask
Knee pads
Spacers
Wedges
1/2" drill motor
Rod type mixing paddle
Finished trowel
Rubber gloves
Rubber mallet and beating block
Chalk line and chalk
Clear lacquer
Knee pads

Specialty Materials (see Resources, below)

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Grouting the Floor

Note: Including the borders, this whole floor has four different color tiles. Because of its color, the homeowners chose a tan grout (figure A) because it complemented each color tile.

1. Mix the grout according to manufacturers instruction's, and note that you want the grout to be the consistency of a milkshake (see Figure A). Don't forget to let the grout slake or stand for at least 15 minutes prior to using.

2. Apply the grout start in one corner and work outward, using a laminated grout float. Scoop a small amount of grout, and holding the float at an angle (figure B), push the grout into the joints with the flat edge and a sweeping motion.

   Note: Pushing the grout over the face of the tiles diagonally with the flat edge of float will cut off excess grout. Be sure to work in small manageable areas.

3. Continue the process over the entire floor until all joints have been grouted, and be sure to make two or three passes from different directions, scraping the tile with the edge of the float to clean off any excess grout.

4. Allow grout to set and haze over.

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

6. Do a final wipe with a nearly dry sponge pulled diagonally over the face of the tile to remove any grout residue. Whenever you're sponging tile, don't use too much water or you'll dilute the grout.

7. Once the grout has hazed over, polish the face of the tiles with cheesecloth. The mesh in the cheesecloth will give a nice buffed quality to the floor.

   Note: Don't grout the perimeter joint in the floor (figure D). This open joint is covered by a wood base (baseboard) and allows the floor to expand and contract.

8. Apply caulking where the tile meets the aluminum doorframe. Be sure to get a caulk that matches the grout color.

9. Apply a grout sealer after a minimum of 48 hours or whatever the manufacturer recommends.

   Note: It's vital to seal the grout so excessive moisture doesn't get underneath it. And the sealant applicator (figure E) will place the sealant right on the joint, and not the tile. Be sure to saturate the joint fully and let it sit per the manufacturer's instructions.

10. Be sure to wipe off any excess sealant that may get on the face of the tiles.

In the final segment, Wilson will utilize the leftover tile pieces by creating beautiful mosaic-tiled tabletops.

RESOURCES :

Porch Tiling Products Information (Home Depot)

Artisan II Collection ("Titan")
13"x13"
Color: 300 Olive sheen
Model #: 384-058

Crossville Tile
Alamo
Model #: AV113.11212UPS

Crossville Tile
Grand Canyon
Model #: AV114.11212UPS

Crossville Tile
Rushmore
Model #: AV115.11212UPS

Grout by Custom
Saraha Tan (sanded)
Model #: 729-094 (25 lb. bag)

Level Quick by Custom
Self Leveler
Model #: 839-469

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

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