Grouting Tile Floors
- After you have waited the appropriate amount of time as per mortar instructions, make sure mortar is dry and tile is firmly set.
- Remove all tile spacers.
- Tile should be clean and dry.
- Expansion joints (where tile meets adjacent walls, floors, or fixtures) should not be grouted. Instead, use Caulk (see Caulking Section)
Installing Grout
TEC Skill Set Power Grout™ or DesignColor™ Grout with Grout Boost® additive are highly recommended. Both of these solutions come in a wide array of designer colors and provide stain resistance, high performance and ease of use. Refer to grout packaging for product capabilities, instructions and limitations.
Special Grouting Tips:
- Many people find it easiest to pack the grout into the joints using the small end of the grout float (rather than the long end.) This is an appropriate method, however, you should still use the long end to scrape excess grout off of the tile.
- After you have applied the grout, be sure to wait the appropriate amount of time before you start sponge clean-up. Touch grout after 30-60 minutes. Grout should be firm, not soft. If there is no residue on your finger, grout is ready to clean.
- Use a damp sponge as possible for the clean-up steps, otherwise you will likely just be pulling pigment out of the grout joints. The goal is to not disturb the grout lines. First, use a circular motion to loosen grout haze and tool the joints.
- For a second clean up, use the sponge to wipe the surface diagonally across the tiles and grout joints holding sponge flat to the surface. This should also help to smooth out the grout joints. Do not leave excess water pooled on the joints.
- Clean the sponge frequently, and wring out as much water as possible each time.
- Replace the bucket of clean-up water frequently.
Caulking
Once grout has cured, fill gaps at walls and flooring transitions with caulk. The use of TEC® Invision® Ready To Use Caulk is highly recommended. Refer to caulk packaging for product capabilities, instructions and limitations
