Tips & Ideas
Flooring
Ceramic Tiles
Applying Grout
After waiting 24 hours for the mortar on the back of the tiles to dry, we may begin applying the grout. Grout enables the tiles to stay firmly and provides a nice apperance on the walls. It also prevents moisture, water and dirt penetrating on the back of the tiles.
 
Skill Level
Easy Medium Hard
Required Skills
Intermediate carpentry skills
Time Required
Experienced   1 hr.
Handy           1,5 hrs.
Beginner        2 hrs.
        Based on 15 square- metre area, including drying time
What You Need?
Materials
grout
Tools
screwdriver, rubber grout float, sponge
Hint
If it takes more than 30 minutes to spread the grout on the entire surface, the grout may dry and it would be difficult to clean the surface of the tiles. For this reason, it is important to apply and spread the grout based on your working speed.
Steps
1.
Taking out the spacers: Let’s begin by carefully taking out the spacers that are near the surface using a regular screwdriver or any other tool with a pointy end (The drying time for the mortar is 24 hours. In cold weather, the drying time may take up to 48 hours. If grout is filled before the mortar dries, the moisture will stay inside and may cause stains on the face-up sides of the tiles).
2.
Cleaning up with a regular screwdriver: Once the spacers are removed let’s scrape the mortar that has been left between the tiles with a regular screwdriver.Then let’s wipe the floor with a dry cloth.
3.
Filling grout: Let’s apply the prepared grout (the preparation instructions on the grout package should be followed) diagonally in sweeping motions. The rubber grout float prevents scratches on the surface. We should apply enough grout to fill the joints evenly.
4.
Cleaning with a sponge: After waiting for half an hour for the grout to dry, let’s dip our sponge into clean water, squeeze the sponge thoroughly and clean the remains of the grout.
5.
Now we should give ourselves a pat on the back for successfully tiling our very own bathroom!