Although tiling has been a practiced profession for many years, many tilers still struggle to enhance the beauty and quality of their work. One of the best ways to improve a tiler’s work is by using grout powder and suitable mortar correctly and effectively.
Using the best grout helps significantly improve the quality of the work and maintains the strength and durability of the tiles for a long time. In this article, we will introduce you to the best grout for tiling and guide you on the proper method for grouting. Stay with us!
What is Grout Powder?
Tile and ceramic grout powder is a material that combines with water to be used as a sealing agent for the joints between ceramic surfaces. This material consists of various minerals and chemicals, and when mixed with water, it turns into a strong, resistant coating. Grout powder is used for sealing joints in ceilings, walls, and both interior and exterior surfaces.
This is an affordable and simple method for grouting surfaces and is a practical and popular option in the building and decoration industry. However, it is not recommended for certain special surfaces. For example, if the surface has cracks or damage, using this powder will only provide a temporary fix. Generally, grout powder is a simple and inexpensive way to grout, but it’s important to ensure that it is suitable for the surface before use.
Types of Grout Mortar
There are various types of grout mortars, which differ based on the type of surface and location. Below are some common types of grout mortar:
Cement Mortar: This type of mortar is suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces. It is used for grouting floor tiles, ceilings, walls, and various surfaces and is very affordable.
Epoxy Mortar: This type is suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces, showing excellent resistance to heat, scratches, and moisture. It’s used for grouting surfaces like kitchen spaces, rooftop gardens, pools, and bathrooms. However, it is more expensive compared to other types of mortars.
Choosing the Best Grout for Tiling
Many tilers face challenges in improving the quality of their work, often searching for the right solution. Using the best grout for tiling is one of the key principles to enhance the quality of the work.
Proper adhesion of ceramic and tiles is crucial, and if done with quality mortar and the gaps between the tiles are well-filled, the beauty of the work increases significantly. In addition to aesthetics, using quality mortar helps improve the waterproofing of various surfaces.
How to Prepare Tile Grout Mortar
Ceramic grout powder is one of the most commonly used materials in the stone and tiling industry. This material, made from mixing powder and water, is used for grouting tiles, ceramics, mosaics, and stone. However, understanding the proper method of grouting remains a challenge for many tilers.
It is important not to mix too much water with the grout powder during the grouting process. The less water you use, the stronger and firmer the grout will be. Additionally, grout powder can only be applied in one stage, so knowing the correct way to use it is crucial.
Correct Grouting Method
After selecting the best grout for tiling, you need to familiarize yourself with the proper grouting method. Here’s how you can do it:
Tools Needed for Grouting:
- Bucket
- Sealant
- Special trowel for edges
- Scraper
- Microfiber towel
- Vacuum cleaner
- Tile sponge
- Utility knife
We recommend doing a small test before grouting a large area to ensure satisfactory results and become more familiar with the process. Here’s how to begin:
Clean the Joints: Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the grout lines. Scrape the lines between the tiles using a scraper, but be careful not to apply too much pressure.
Mix the Grout Mortar by Hand: Mix the grout mortar until it becomes homogeneous. Ensure there is no remaining powder at the bottom of the bucket, and do not use a drill for mixing.
- Apply the Grout: Apply the grout diagonally over the tiles and press it deep into the joints.
- Remove Excess Grout: Spiral-clean the majority of the excess grout, helping to distribute it evenly in the joints.
- Wipe the Surface with a Sponge: After about 20 to 30 minutes, wipe the surface using a damp sponge.
- Smooth the Grout Lines: Press a sponge with your index finger to smooth out any uneven or raised grout lines.
- Dry the Surface with a Towel: After the grout has set, allow it to dry for 30 minutes. Use a microfiber towel to clean the surface.
- Important Tip: Always keep some spare grout on hand. Grout absorbs moisture quickly, so to prevent it from spoiling, store it in a plastic container.
Matching Grout Color to Tile Color
In addition to using the best grout, it’s essential to match the grout color with the tile color. For instance, if the porcelain floor tiles are white, use white grout powder to make the grout lines less visible. Choosing white or gray grout can brighten the space and create a cohesive look.
Conclusion
In this article, we discussed the best grout for tiling and its impact on improving work quality. If you are in the tiling profession and want to enhance the appearance and quality of your work, make sure to familiarize yourself with the proper grouting methods and use the best materials for grouting