How to properly grout tiles

1. Grouting tiles

Once the tiles have been laid using an adhesive and with small plastic crosses, or spacers, inserted between them, the grouting process can begin. A grout mixture is applied over the tiles, using a spatula or a grout float. The grout float is used to fully compress the grout into the entire joint. Only small areas can be done at any one time since the grout mixture dries quickly and once hardened, wont fill the gaps properly.

In order for the grout to adhere as well as possible, the tiles are coated beforehand with emulsion. Once the tiles have been laid with spacers, they are cleaned well with a wet cloth and then the emulsion is applied. When the emulsion has dried and any residue has been wiped away, the grout mixture can be applied. The drying time of the emulsion and its bonding to the grout must be taken into account.

1.1. Grout joints

If youre going to tackle the grouting yourself, then remember that the grouting mixture needs to be applied in all directions as it will then get into the joints more evenly. Once you’ve mastered grouting, youll be able to use other techniques, including grouting directly into the joints.

2. Grout colours

The colour of the grout can greatly affect the appearance of the tiles. You can match the grout to the colour of the tiles, thereby hiding the joins between them and giving a more cohesive look, or you could go for a contrasting colour, which will give the surface some distinction and help bring out any pattern on the tiles. Its unadvisable to touch up the grouting at a later date, as it may start to peel away; in addition, it wont look good unless you scrub everything well beforehand. Colour is added to the grout mixture before you start work. Depending on the material being used for grouting, there are cement- and epoxy-based colours available.

3. The best type of grout

There are many types of grout available and you can use any of them. A cementitious grout with modified polymers, a two-component polyurethane self-consolidating sealant, or a three-component epoxy grout with the highest degree of chemical resistance can be used. Grouts differ in terms of their strength, durability, impermeability, and, certainly, price. The best grout is that which is mixed following the manufacturers instructions to the letter.

3.1. Grout for outdoor tiles

Grout for external use must be resistant to water, so for tiles on patios and balconies, an elastic mineral grout is used.

3.2. Grout consumption rates

The consumption rate of grout per m2 varies considerably since it depends on the width and depth of the joints, the size of the tiles, and the composition of the grout itself. Therefore, it is difficult to estimate the required quantities. Manufacturers offer consumption calculations either on the packaging or on their websites.

4. Drying times

Once the grout has been applied, it must be allowed to dry properly. The layer of grout applied over the tiles should be as thin as possible and tiles should be cleaned immediately afterwards. This can be done with a special cleaning utensil, but a sponge or towel can also be used. First, the tiles are cleaned with a dry sponge or towel, and after two or three days the surface can be washed with water.

5. Cleaning grouting in the bathroom

Grout is coarser and more porous than ceramic tiles and is therefore more sensitive to dirt, moisture retention, and the development of mould. This is especially true for wet and damp rooms, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Cleaning grouting is easiest to do with a toothbrush and bicarbonate of soda. Vinegar or a special cleaning agent can be used to remove stains and mould. If the grouting is waxed, it will absorb less water and last longer.

6. Tiling - prices

If you decide to let an expert do your tiling, laying the tiles on standard adhesive will cost you between NGN3500 and NGN5000/m2.