Grouting Tiles Like a Pro: 5 Beginner-Friendly Steps

Tile grout is the unsung hero of the installation process. It adds rigidity to tilework, prevents dirt from collecting in between joints, and protects the surface beneath. This is especially important in areas where high foot traffic, moisture, and spills are commonplace.

And with so many colors to choose from, grout contributes a great deal in bringing the overall design together. Find a matching shade to complement your tile or create high-contrast with an opposing color.

Whether you’re fitting new bathroom floors or refreshing a tired kitchen backsplash, mastering the art of grouting tile will set you up with an installation that looks and performs beautifully over time. The good news is applying grout is a task you can tackle yourself. Not convinced?

In this tile grouting guide, we are answering the question, how to grout tile? We've outlined expert tips to help you gear up for a DIY home improvement project and achieve a crisp finished appearance without enlisting professional help.

Step 1: Prepare the Tile Surface

• The grouting process begins only when tiles are fixed in place and the adhesive has had ample time to set and dry. The least amount of time is 24 hours, but we recommend waiting 48 hours after laying tile. If grouted too early, the tiles may shift and fall out of line with each other.
• How to apply grout to tile in a way that isn’t too messy? Make sure cabinets, countertops, or any surface nearby is covered and protected. Next, remove spacers and inspect the joints for any dust, dirt, or residual adhesive.
• Sweep or wipe the tiled area, ensuring not to damage the edges. You don’t want any debris to keep the grout from settling properly.

Step 2: Mix the Grout

• Tile grout is available in powder form or ready-to-use formula. The powder form is what’s known as cementitious grout-which can be sanded or unsanded. To get the consistency right when mixing cement-based grout, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Pour a little water into a clean bucket then slowly add grout and mix until you get a smooth, peanut butter-like consistency. Let it slake for 5-10 minutes then re-mix to ensure all the water is soaked up.
• Grout is difficult to work with once it starts drying out in the bucket. So, we recommend mixing as much as you think you can quickly use. At this stage, you should have an extra bucket of clean rinse water on standby.

Step 3: Apply the Grout

• Now let’s get into how to grout tile. Scoop some grout with a rubber trowel, hold it at a 45-degree angle, and spread the mixture over the surface in a sweeping motion. At this angle, you can easily push the grout into the tile joints.
• Curious about how to grout tile wall? For a vertical surface, apply grout upward so it doesn’t drop to the floor. Firmly work the grout into the gaps, making sure they are evenly filled and flush with the top of the tile.
• One of the best grouting techniques is to work quickly, in small sections at a time, before the mixture starts to harden. Check to make sure no air pockets are formed.

Step 4: Clean the Tile Surface

• Allow the tile grout to slightly stiffen for about 15-20 minutes then gently run over the surface with a large, damp sponge. It helps to work diagonally so you don’t disturb the joints. Rinse out the sponge and repeat the process two to three more times.
• Once the grout starts to harden, you’ll notice a bit of a dusty haze. Use a damp microfiber cloth then buff with a dry one to give your new tilework its shine.

Step 5: Seal the Grout

• Wait 24-72 hours to dry and cure completely. A penetrating grout sealant is warranted to complete the grouting process. This step safeguards against moisture, stains, and mold and makes cleaning easier.
• Sealants come in brush, roller, or spray-on applications and should be worked into the grout as directed. Allow 24 hours for the sealed grout lines to fully dry.

Conclusion

And there you have it! These simple steps on how to grout tile will ensure a durable and immaculate tilework. Before you break out the trowel, make sure you’ve prepped the surface and have all the basic supplies at the ready. With a bit of confidence and a little patience, you’ll be able to complete the grouting process like a home improvement pro.

FAQ

1. How long should I wait before grouting newly installed tiles?

Newly installed tiles should be firmly adhered and cured for 24-48 hours before beginning the grouting process.

2. Do I need to seal tiles before grouting?

Porous or unglazed tiles require sealing before grouting. This protects against grout stains. Allow the sealant enough time to cure before proceeding with grouting tile.

3. What type of grout should I use for my tiles?

Cement-based grout is either sanded or unsanded. For floor tile installation with large joints of 1/8 inch or greater, sanded grout is an ideal choice. It provides a strong and stable lock that’s able to handle high foot traffic.

Unsanded tile grout has no noticeable grit and is useful for vertical surfaces with joints narrower than 1/8 inch. It’s a good choice for delicate materials that could scratch easily such as metal, marble, and glass tile.

4. How much grout should I mix at once?

Grout starts hardening after 30 minutes. A great tip is to mix what you can use within an hour so it doesn’t dry out before you're done grouting tile.

5. How do I choose the right grout color for my tiles?

Tile grout can match or contrast tile color. With a matching or complementary shade, grout lines fall to the background-resulting in a cohesive and seamless finish. A contrasting grout color creates a more dramatic effect and emphasizes tile pattern.

6. How do I prevent grout from cracking?

Wondering how to grout tile so it doesn’t crack? Make sure to achieve the right consistency when mixing grout. The presence of air pockets that result from an over-watered mixture weakens the grout lines. Sealing grout correctly forms a waterproof layer that locks moisture out and averts cracking.