Grout fills the joints between tiles and helps bring your finished wall or floor together. A neat result starts with the right product, careful preparation and cleaning at the right time.
This guide explains the main steps for applying cement-based tile grout, followed by answers to common questions about curing, sealing and repairs. Epoxy and ready-mixed grouts have different requirements, so follow the instructions for your chosen product.
Before You Start
Choose a grout suitable for your tile material, joint width and installation area. For help with the finished look, read our guide to choosing the right grout colour.
Allow the tile adhesive to set for the time specified by its manufacturer before grouting. Remove temporary spacers and excess adhesive from the joints without damaging the tiles or underlying waterproofing.
Prepare the joints to the depth and condition required by the grout manufacturer. Check whether porous, textured or natural stone tiles need special preparation, and test the grout on a spare tile or discreet area first.
Tip: Work in manageable sections so you can apply and clean the grout within its working time.
Tools and Materials
- Grout suitable for your tiles and joint width
- A rubber grout float
- A clean mixing bucket and measuring container
- A suitable mixing tool
- Clean water and a grout-cleaning sponge
- Clean, soft cloths
- Protective equipment specified on the product label and safety data sheet
- A suitable flexible sealant for designated movement and connecting joints
Read the product instructions before starting, including the mixing ratio, working time and cleaning procedure.
Step One: Mix the Grout
Measure the water and grout powder using the manufacturer's specified ratio. Follow the stated mixing order and method to produce a consistent, lump-free mixture.
The finished consistency should match the product instructions. For example, ARDEX FG 8 is mixed into a lump-free, creamy paste. Measure the specified water quantity rather than adjusting by appearance alone.
If the instructions require a resting period followed by remixing, allow for this before application. Mix only as much as you can use within the product's working time.
Tip: Keep the mixing ratio consistent between batches. Don't add extra water to revive grout that has started to set.
Step Two: Apply the Grout
Use a rubber grout float to work the grout firmly into the joints. Sweep diagonally across the tile layout to fill the joints without dragging the grout back out.
Check that the joints are evenly filled and remove excess grout from the tile faces with the float as you go.
Keep designated movement joints and changes of plane clear of grout. These require an appropriate flexible sealant as specified for the installation.
Step Three: Clean the Tiles
Begin cleaning at the stage specified by the grout manufacturer. Washing too early can disturb the joints, while leaving residue too long can make it difficult to remove.
Use a clean, well-wrung sponge and wipe gently across the tiles, following the product's cleaning instructions. Avoid flooding the surface or repeatedly scrubbing the joints.
Rinse the sponge frequently and replace dirty water to avoid spreading residue back across the tiles.
Step Four: Finish and Allow to Cure
Once the grout has firmed sufficiently, remove any remaining light haze using the method and timing recommended by the manufacturer. A clean, soft cloth may be suitable for the final buff on compatible tile surfaces.
Protect the installation during curing. Follow the specified waiting periods before walking on the tiles, exposing them to water or using cleaning products.
If sealing is recommended, check both the grout and sealer instructions for compatibility and the required curing time before application.
Tip: If residue remains, identify the grout and tile material before choosing a cleaner. Use a product approved for both surfaces and follow its application instructions.
Grout and Silicone: Different Jobs
Grout fills the regular joints between tiles. Movement joints, internal corners and connections to fixtures may require a suitable silicone or other specified flexible sealant.
Choose a sealant compatible with the tiles, adjoining materials and installation conditions. Follow the installation details and sealant instructions for preparation, joint dimensions and curing.
Grout and surface sealers do not replace the waterproofing system required beneath tiles in wet areas.
Grouting Tiles: Frequently Asked Questions
How long after tiling can I grout?
Check the adhesive manufacturer's instructions. The waiting period depends on the adhesive, tiles, substrate and site conditions. Grout only when the adhesive is ready for this stage.
How long should I leave grout before wiping?
Follow the cleaning window specified for your grout. Allow it to firm in the joints as instructed before cleaning, rather than waiting for it to dry completely on the tile faces. Temperature, humidity and tile absorption can affect the timing.
How long does tile grout take to dry?
Drying time depends on the grout product and site conditions. As one example, ARDEX FG 8 specifies approximately 24 hours at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. Dense tiles, cooler temperatures and higher humidity can extend this time.
Drying, readiness for water exposure and readiness for sealing are different milestones. ARDEX FG 8 specifies seven days before sealing. Check your own grout's instructions before walking on the tiles, using a shower or applying sealer.
Do I need to seal grout?
This depends on the grout and its intended use. Check whether sealing is recommended, select a compatible sealer and allow the required curing time before application.
How do I apply grout sealer?
Make sure the grout is clean, dry and sufficiently cured. Follow the sealer instructions for application, coats and removal of excess product from the tiles. Test compatibility in a discreet area first.
Can I put new grout over old grout?
A thin layer over existing grout may not bond reliably. Follow the replacement grout manufacturer's preparation requirements, including the depth of old grout to remove. Protect the tiles and waterproofing during removal.
How do I repair cracked or missing grout?
Establish why the grout has failed before repairing it. Recurring cracks, loose tiles or signs of moisture may need further investigation. For a local repair, remove unsound grout and prepare the joints as required by the replacement product.
How do I remove grout haze?
Use the cleaning method recommended for your grout and tiles. Stubborn residue may need a compatible specialist cleaner. Acid-based products can damage some materials, so don't assume a cement residue remover is suitable for every tiled surface.
Does grout hold tiles in place?
Tile adhesive bonds the tiles to the prepared substrate. Grout fills the joints and finishes the tiled surface; it does not replace adhesive or repair loose tiles.
Can I use silicone instead of grout?
Use each product where the installation specifies it. A suitable flexible sealant is used in designated movement and connecting joints, while grout is generally used in the regular joints between tiles.
Can I grout without a grout float?
A suitable rubber grout float helps compact the grout into the joints and remove excess material from tile faces. Choose the tool recommended for your grout and tile finish.
Can I change grout colour without regrouting?
Specialist grout colourants may suit some existing cement-based grouts. Check compatibility, preparation and application requirements. Colouring the surface won't resolve cracked or failing grout.
Need help getting started? Bring your tile and project details to your local Beaumont Tiles store to discuss suitable grout, tools and preparation products.
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