INSTALLATION
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:
Pour proper
amount of water into a clean mixing container.
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:
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.
SECONDARY CLEANING:
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.
FINAL CLEANING:
If a haze appears
on the surface of the tiles after grout is dry, buff off with clean
dry cloth.
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.
