Grouting Ceramic Tile

Grout can be applied to the ceramic once the mastic is completely dry. To grout ceramic tiles:

Step 1: Mix the grout to a creamy consistency and set it aside. Wet the tiles so that they do not remove moisture from the grout. Wear gloves and spread grout evenly over half of the back wall, then use a rubber squeegee to work the grout well into the tile. Wipe the excess away with a wet sponge.

Use a rubber squeegee to apply the wet grout evenly and smoothly.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.
Spread grout evenly over the wall using a rubber squeegee
to work the grout into the areas between the tiles.

Step 2: Use a blunt stick to force the grout deep into the tile joints. Remove the excess grout with a sponge and continue in the same manner for the remaining area.

Use a blunt stick to work grout into tile joints deeply and evenly.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.
Use the end of an old toothbrush to force the grout into the tile joints.

Step 3: Allow the grout to dry overnight. Polish off the thin film of grout that has dried on the tile. Run a bead of tub caulk around the 1/8-inch gap between the tub and the first row of tiles. If you have tiled around a window, be sure to caulk it carefully.

Run a bead of caulk between the tub and the first row of tiles to prevent water seepage.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.
Run a bead of caulk between the tub and first row of tiles.

Step 4: Apply a grout sealer according to the manufacturer's directions.

Now that you've read the instructions in this article, you're ready to do a bathroom makeover.

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