Grouting is the process of filling in the gaps between tiles. This not only makes the installation more attractive, but prevents moisture from damaging the tile. Since grout is applied on the entire top of the tile, problems occur when the tile is made of porous stone. The stone often absorbs the grout before you can wipe if off, causing stains or a hazy appearance. To prevent this, seal the tile before applying grout.
Things You'll Need
- Grout release agent
- Foam paint brush
- Buckets
- Grout
- Water
- Grout float
- Sponge
Instructions
1
Open a bottle of a grout release agent that is designed for the specific type of stone the tile is constructed of. Apply the liquid in a thin coat over the surface of each stone tile after it is mortared to the floor. Wait for the amount of time indicated on the release agent bottle before continuing.
2
Fill a bucket with a bag of dry grout and mix it with water as instructed by the directions. You can also buy a bucket of premixed grout which only require stirring up.
3
Insert a grout float into the grout and scoop up 1 cup. Place the grout onto the stone tile and pull the float toward you to push the grout into the grooves of the tile.
4
Continue applying grout until all of the grooves are filled to the top of the tiles.
5
Scrape the bottom of the grout float on top of the bucket to remove excess grout. Place the grout float back on the floor and hold it at a 45-degree angle. Scrape it over the surface of all of the tiles to remove excess grout.
6
Fill a clean bucket half full of warm water. Insert a sponge into the water and wring it out as much as possible. Wipe the sponge over each of the grout lines to smooth them out. Do not press down on the grout, simply move the sponge over them gently.
7
Rinse the sponge and wipe the surface of all of the stone tiles to remove the excess grout. Rinse the sponge frequently and replace the water in the bucket when it turns cloudy.
8
Wait for 10 to 15 minutes to see if a haze forms on the stone tile. If so, rinse the tiles again with fresh water and a sponge to remove the haze.
Source: www.eHow.com
