​Your homify DIY guide on: How to grout tiles

Johannes van Graan Johannes van Graan
homify Classic style kitchen
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Laying a new floor in your bathroom? Touching up your kitchen’s backsplash? Doesn’t matter – if you’re working with tiling surfaces then you are probably sealing them with grout in order to protect them from dirt and moisture. 

Luckily, when it comes to working with tile grouting, this is one of the easiest DIY projects available – and even more so, thanks to our step-by-step guide which we’re sharing with you today! 

First of all, what you will need in order to grout (and regrout) tiles:  

• A tub of grout / adhesive 

• A squeegee or plastic spreader 

• A sponge bucket 

• A cloth. 

Check your nearest DIY / hardware store for various types of grout and related products.

1. What are the different types of grout?

Four main types of grout exist: 

1. Cement-based grout: Often used for DIY tile projects, this is weaker than epoxy grout, yet much easier to work with. 

2. Epoxy grout: Although it’s costlier than other types, it works much better for tiles that need a higher degree of water resistance, like bathroom tiles.  

3. Latex-modified sanded cement grout: Although it’s very similar to cement grout, it boasts additional water-resistance and bonding characteristics, making it ideal for bathrooms and countertops. 

4. Caulking grout: Applied by squeezing from a tube or via a caulking gun, this option is terrific for those hard-to-reach surfaces.

2. How to grout tiles: Step 1 – 2

Step 1: If you’re using a powdered grout, pour some water into a bucket before adding the grout. Stir continuously while you’re adding the grout – you’re aiming for the consistency of whipped-up ice cream. 

Step 2: With a squeegee or grout spreader, apply the mixed grout to the tile. Working diagonally across a 45° angle, force the grout into the gaps in-between the tiles. To avoid the chances of the grout drying before it’s set properly in place, limit your working areas to smaller surfaces.

3. How to grout tiles: Step 3 – 5

Step 3: As the grout cures once it’s been applied, you want to tool it into the joints while it’s still easy to work with. Always check the drying times on the packaging. After applying, wipe off any excess grout with a damp sponge. After waiting for 10 minutes, wipe over the surfaces with your wet sponge once again. 

homify hint: Don’t add water to make the grout spread easier – this will only weaken it. 

Step 4: To make the joints waterproof they will have to be sealed. Always read the instructions carefully and double-check that you’re using the correct grout sealer. Two applications are needed to seal the joints. As some tiles are sensitive to drips, ensure that you consistently wipe them away.  

Step 5: Allow the tile to sit and dry for the recommended time on the packaging. After it has dried properly, polish with a clean cloth.

4. How to regrout tiles: Step 1 – 2

It doesn’t take very long for beautiful white grout to become dirty and mouldy looking. Likewise, changing it back to its original white colour doesn’t eat up a lot of time either. But while you’re at it, have you considered trying something different, like a coloured grout or even a bit of glitter? 

Step 1: To make the cleaning-up process easier on yourself, cover the floor with a dust sheet. If you’re working over a bathtub, sink or basin, insert its plug to stop the grout from blocking the waste. And as there will be dust in the air, always open windows and doors for some ventilation. We also recommend wearing a safety mask and goggles! 

Step 2: Although it’s possible to remove grout using a nail, this is the trickier option. Rather go with a grout rake or an electric grout remover, as this will ensure a much smoother process – especially if you are tackling an entire room instead of just a tiny backsplash.

5. How to regrout tiles: Step 3—5

Step 3: Starting in the middle of a tile, fit the rake into a line of grout. Keeping your hand most steady, apply pressure and then slowly draw it along the line. With an electric tool there is no need to apply pressure, yet you must still ensure that you choose the correct size head and that you don’t damage the tile edges while working. Start with the vertical lines, then move on to the horizontal. Afterwards, wipe over all the tiles to remove dust and debris. 

Step 4: if you are using powdered grout, mix up an amount you can use in 20 minutes or less, as it starts to harden thereafter. With a scraper or grout trowel, apply a splash of your mixed grout to a grout spreader. Use the spreader to proceed along the grout lines, moving over the tiles with its edge to clean off excess. 

Step 5: Clean off any excess with a well-squeezed damp tile sponge. If grout should fall out, simply push a little back in with your finger. Give it about an hour to harden, then use a grout finisher to ensure neat, indented lines (gently run the rounded end along the line). After leaving it to dry for a few hours, use a soft, clean cloth to polish off the powdery debris on the tiles’ surfaces. 

The result? A tiled surface that looks brand new and exquisitely clean! 

Speaking of beautiful interiors, let’s provide assistance in Choosing the perfect kitchen backsplash.

Which tiled area in your home is up for some grouting (or regrouting)?

Need help with your home project?
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