Grouting a tile floor is the final step in your flooring project and if you have already a clean floor surface, with a little time and patience, you could have a beautiful, seamless tile floor in no time.
Supplies
- Two 5-gallon plastic buckets
- Grout (color of your choice)
- Large Tile Sponge
- Clean Towel
Tools
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep Surfaces
With most do-it-yourself projects (and especially to grout a tile floor), preparation is the first step and shouldn’t be skipped! Depending on the surfaces surrounding the floor, you may need to cover those surfaces with painter’s tape or another protective covering. This could apply to cabinets, walls, tubs or showers. Be sure that the floor is free of thin set and other debris before moving forward.
Step 2 – Mix grout
You may choose to purchase pre-mixed grout to make it easier on yourself. However if you have powdered grout, you will have to manually mix it before applying to the tiles. If, you’re using pre-mixed grout go ahead and skip to Step 3.
You will add the powdered grout and water (per the packaging instructions) to one of the 5-gallon buckets. Be mindful while you add water to ensure it slowly gets to a slightly thick, paste consistency and not too loose or runny.
You will have to allow the grout to sit for a few minutes before using, allowing it to slake, or fully hydrate before remixing and using on the floor.
Step 3 – Apply Grout
Using your grout float, scoop some of the grout on one end. Fill the joints of a small area, approximately 25 square feet, at a 45 degree angle, moving consistently across the tile. Repeat this until this small area is covered.
Using the grout float, remove as much of the grout from the area as possible without gouging your grout lines. You will have to rinse the grout float in the second bucket of water to remove the residue as you scrape. Be sure not add too much water to the finished grout area. Additional water to the finished grout mix can affect curing.
Step 4 – Sponge Off
Let the grout sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then use a grout sponge to wipe off more of the grout residue. Refill the second 5-gallon bucket with clean, warm water, fill the sponge with water, then wring out thoroughly. Be sure that the sponge is not dripping before you wipe the tile.
Wipe the face of the tiles and once the sponge is covered in residue, rinse the sponge and repeat the process. Use as much clean water as necessary to prevent the grout from creating a haze on the tile once the surface dries.
Step 5 – Wipe Clean
Let the grout sit for an hour or longer until the grout has mostly hardened. You’ll use a clean, slightly damp towel to wipe the remaining grout.
You may choose to buff the tile once the grout is fully hardened to give the tile a nice shine.
And just like that- you’re done!
