- When the thin-set is dry, the first thing you need to do is remove the spacers. This can be done in a number of ways, but using a wide push broom makes the job a lot easier (figure A).
- Inspect the grout joints and cut away any excess mortar sticking up between the tiles with a utility knife (figure B).
- Mix the grout according to manufacturer's directions (figure C). It is best to mix only one bag at a time. This will keep the grout color and thickness as consistent as possible. There is no need to hurry, the grout will stay workable.
- To apply the grout, dump out approximately one-third to one-half of the mixture onto the tiles. Using a hard rubber float pack the joints, strike off the excess, pull the float diagonally across the tiles (figure D).
Expert Note: If the job size is not too large, grout the entire area at one time. Variations in the grout color can occur from batch to batch, so be as consistent as possible when mixing and cleaning. - Applying grout in the vertical joints of steps is no different than applying it to the floor. You do not need a thicker mixture for that.
- When half the tiles are grouted, begin to dress the grout by using a large damp sponge to push the grout between the tiles using a circular motion. Rinse the sponge and wipe across the tiles on a diagonal line (figure E) to keep from pulling the grout back out of the joints. The key step here is to keep turning the sponge over and using the clean side, and then rinse it out and repeat the process over the entire grout surface.
- Repeat the steps for applying the grout for the remainder of the tiles. It is a good idea to wear gloves, because working with cement is very hard on bare hands.
Note: There might be a slight haze on some of the tiles and that is okay. You do not want to have a big film left. A light haze will wash off after the final rinse, but a large film may not. Make sure you clean the tiles properly. - Protect the grout from stains and everyday wear and tear by applying a penetrating sealer directly onto the grout (figure F).
Expert Tip: Once the grout on your tile job has cured, you need to allow two weeks to make sure all the moisture has dried out. You need to seal the grout with a high quality grout sealer. This will make the grout moisture resistant and it is especially important on an outside tile job. - The final step is to apply the exterior sealing around the edges of the house and the surrounding walls of the porch (figure G). This will keep water from seeping into areas where it should not be.
Next Weekend Project: Back Porch Makeover Weekend Projects Index
GUESTS :
Tim Malo
Dakota Tile, Inc.
7930 Middle Valley Rd.
Hixson, TN 37343
Phone: 423-843-1303
Tim Bolby
Crossville Porcelain Store
346 Sweeny Dr.
Crossville, TN
Phone: 931-484-2110
Fax: 931-484-8418
E-mail: tbolby@crossville.com
Website: www.crossvilleceramics.com
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