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What type of Grout?

Created: 7/22/2006 Updated: 7/22/2006

I just installed about 700 sq. ft. of 18 X 18 Poreclain tile in my living room. I've read that a latex based sanded grout is the best. Any comments or suggestions?

Latex or polymer grout would be a good choice. These products must be mixed with water (orother additives) in order to begin their working process. The amount of liquid and proper mixing techniques are as important as those for bonding mortars. Many factors affect the hydration (drying) process as the water reacts with the cement in grout, and it is not possible to achieve a uniform cure. It follows then that grout colors are rarely uniform and variations in color and shade should be anticipated. Listed below are tips to help minimize these variations.
1. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for material ratios- mixing times, etc.
2. Whenever possible mix the complete container (bag, box) of grout at one time. If the project requires more than one bag/box of grout, try to keep the material ratios and mixing times as uniform as possible from one batch to the next. This would include cleaning the container into which the mixed grout is placed between each batch.
3. Maintain as uniform an environment as possible. For example if you are grouting tiles that have been installed in a living room, direct sunlight from a window may impact that area of grout. Covering the window or closing blinds is a simple answer. For exteriors exposed to direct sunlight, shading the work area is advisable.
4. The residue of bonding mortar within the joints of tile can impact the drying of grout when it is installed. This is more likely to occur if the bonding mortar was not scraped out to a uniform depth during the tile laying process. It also follows that the amount of residual moisture within these joints (even after 48 hours) will cause the bonding mortar to draw moisture from the grout at different rates. This can be controlled by lightly moistening the joints with water just prior to grouting.
5. Uniform curing of grout after its application and final cleaning is a good option. This is best achieved by covering the installation with non-staining butcher or kraft paper for 72 hours. Make sure the paper covers all tiled areas and if possible weight or tape the paper down at tilework perimeters

Dave Gobis CTC,CSI
Executive Director
Ceramic Tile Education Foundation

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