Grouting
A careful
grouting job will give your installation the professional look
you want, so take your time on this step in particular.
Select a grout
material that is suitable for the job. A good rule of thumb
is to use LATICRETE® Polymer Fortified Wall Grout in joints 1/8
inch
or less and LATICRETE® Polymer Fortified Floor Grout in joints
1/8 inch
or larger. Mix floor grout (sanded) and wall grout (unsanded)
with water only,
following proper mixing instructions on grout container. Mix grout
to a stiff,
yet workable consistency. Stainless epoxy grouts (LATAPOXY® SP-100)
are also available for high performance and stainproof requirements.
MIXING:
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Pour
proper amount of water into a clean mixing container. |
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Add some grout
powder and mix until smooth. Add additional powder to make
a stiff, yet workable, grout. Do not make grout soupy. For
narrow joints use less powder to obtain a softer mix; for
wide joints use more powder to obtain a stiffer mix. |
APPLICATION:
Spread grout
paste with a firm, sharp rubber float. Work the grout paste into
the joints until completely filled, making certain the paste is
not just sitting on
top or "bridging the joint". Pack ALL joints firmly.
PRIMARY CLEANING:
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Remove
all excess grout from the face of the tiles with the edge
of the grout float. Work the float at a 45° angle, diagonally
to the grout joints, to avoid pulling out the paste. |
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SECONDARY CLEANING:
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Remove
the remaining grout with a damp towel or damp sponge (not
wet). Work the strokes diagonally to the tile joints and allow
to dry. Let grout set for at least 24 hours. Wet down the
grout joints with clean cold water during this period. |
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FINAL CLEANING:
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If
a haze appears on the surface of the tiles after grout is
dry, buff off with clean dry cloth. |
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OPENING
AREA TO TRAFFIC:
For light
traffic flow areas, allow grout to set for approximately 12 hours.
For heavier traffic, let set for 24 hours.
