Three-step grout system
1 of 3Photo 1: Wipe on grout release
Wipe on the grout release with care. Try to keep it
out of the grout joints or the grout won't bond to
the tile. Let it dry before grouting.
2 of 3Photo 2: Squeeze in the grout
Twist the bag like you're icing a cake to force the
grout into each joint. This takes time, so only mix
small batches until you get a feel for how much
flooring to bite off at once.
3 of 3Photo 3: Pack the joints
Compress the grout into each joint by dragging the
margin trowel over the joint. Then scrape the
excess grout away until it's even with the tile.
You can't just slather
grout over any porous or
uneven surfaces such as split-slate
tiles or limestone or similar
stone tile that has
crevices, holes or open cracks.
The grout will fill in those
areas and even if you're able to
clean them out, you'll never
have enough time to clean
everything before the grout
sets up.
Here's an effective three-step
system. It takes longer than
conventional grouting techniques,
but you'll get perfectly
clean tile with far less hassle.
The only special tool you
might not have is a grout bag,
which masons use for tuckpointing.
Find one with the masonry tools at
the home center. Also pick up
a bottle of “grout release” at a
tile store. To start, clean out
all the grout lines by vacuuming
and scraping out any thinset
projecting above the tile.
Then wipe the surface with a
damp rag until it's free of dust.
The three photos show how
to apply the grout. When
you're finished with one
batch, let the grout set until
you can't leave a thumbprint
in it. Then begin tooling the
joints with a slightly damp
sponge to shape and even
them out. Keep wiping away
any excess grout until the tile
looks clean.
After you see a hazy film
form, polish the tile with a
dry cloth just as you would
with conventional tile.
