The next step is to fix the gaps between tiles.It is less time consuming and labor intensive than installing tile, but it is more important than making sure your tiles are straight.The floor under the tile needs a proper grout job to stay dry.It's not a job to take lightly because you will still be working on your knees for an extended period of time.
Step 1: The old grout should be removed.
If you're re-grouting an old tile surface, it's a good idea to remove the old grout.The old compound can be removed with a grout saw or a removal bit.Before proceeding, make sure this is completely removed.Before you start, make sure the joints are free of dirt, dust, or debris.
Step 2: Pick out the color of the grout.
Whether people notice the beauty of the individual tiles or the overall pattern of tiles depends on the grout color.Light grout tends to accentuate the individual tiles while dark grout accentuates the pattern of the tiles, their overall structure on the floor.If you want the floor to have a continuous appearance, choose a color that matches the tile.If you install the tile yourself and the lines aren't straight, a matching color of grout can help.If you want the tiles to stand out, choose a color of grout that contrasts the tile color.A contrasting color of the grout on tiles with an irregular edge will make them look better.Dark colors are good for high traffic areas.It will be difficult to keep clean.
Step 3: There is a choice between sanded or unsanded grout.
Sanded grout is stronger than unsanded.Sanded grout is needed when the lines are larger than 3mm.It is possible for unsanded grout to crack.
Step 4: To cure the thinset mortar, wait.
Thinset is used to adhere tiles to the floor.The exact drying time varies by brand, so read and follow the thinset packaging carefully.You have to wait at least a day for the tile floor to be applied.
Step 5: The package directions tell you to mix it.
It will dry out in about half an hour, so you want to mix as much as you can.Dump the powder into a large bucket and add only a small amount of water.After that, mix in the rest of the water.It should be the consistency of thick batter or slightly looser than smooth peanut butter, as too much water will prevent it from spreading and hardening properly.
Step 6: A trowel is needed to scoop the tile floor.
Start in the corner farthest from the doorway.
Step 7: The grout should be spread over a small joint.
To press the grout into the joint, hold a float at a 45 degree angle to the floor.If you want a smooth finish, move the float at a diagonal angle.The edge of the float can end up missing if you wipe parallel to the lines.
Step 8: Excess grout can be removed.
It isn't a good sight to see muddy grout on your floor.Wait about 15 to 30 minutes for the joints to set after applying.Start by filling two buckets with water.Put a large sponge in the first water bucket and wring it out.If you want to remove excess grout from the tiles, use a circular motion or diagonal motion.Continue rinsing the sponge in the second bucket until all the grout is removed from the tile.Wait three hours before doing it again.You have a harder time buffing out the haze if you wait too long.To make sure the grout lines are smooth, make a final pass along the lines with the damp sponge.Don't worry if the excess is gone.You can use a plastic chisel or a putty knife to remove it.
Step 9: The grout color is what you want to verify.
If you want to see how the color looks against the tile, you can use a hairdryer.If you want to make a last-minute change, now is the time as it is nearly impossible to remove grout once it's dried.
Step 10: If you're happy with the color, you can keep working with it.
If you keep working in small areas, you can remove the excess grout before it gets wet.One of the helpers can remove the excess if you have them.
Step 11: Once everything is dry, you can clean up the haze.
You're likely to have a "grout haze" covering your tiles after your job is done if you don't clean the excess grout from the tiles.To clean up the haze, use a sponge and bucket of water.The sponge needs to be washed frequently.Take a dry towel or rag and wipe the haze off.You can wear the old socks on your hand while you scrub.You can brush up the mess with a broom.
Step 12: Before you seal it, wait for the grout to cure.
Determine the number of days to wait by reading the manufacturer's directions.To get good air in your room, crack the windows.Pour a small amount of sealant on the grout and use a sponge to work it in.After about 10 minutes, wipe the sealant off.To be sure, check the label.If possible, seal the grout every six months to a year.