Clean bucket

Cheesecloth

Access to cool, clean water.

New Installations: Ceramic floor tile joints are generally wider and deeper than wall or countertop tile joints and “sanded” or textured grout is recommended for them. “Sanded” texture grouts have a heavier body and provide more stability for these larger grout joints (to a maximum of 3/8” wide). Smaller, narrower grout joints common with wall tile installations will work with “smooth” or non-textured grouts. Smooth grouts are not recommended for grout joints more than 1/8 “wide.

Start in the corner of the room farthest from the entry/exit door. Before grouting, soak the grout sponge in a bucket of clean cool water and thoroughly wring out . Next, use the dampened sponge and lightly wipe the tile surface in an area no larger than 5 – 10 sq. feet. A slightly wet tile surface allows the grout to glide easily over the tile and into the grout joint while providing for easier cleanup. While tile is still damp, dispense a liberal amount of grout onto the tile surface. Using the grout float, press the grout into the grout joints over the dampened area ( apply grout on no more than 5 – 10 square feet at a time to allow for prompt cleaning – delayed cleaning may cause some cracking ) . Next, place the grout float on edge at a 45°angle and rake the float diagonally across the tile surface while exerting a downward pressure. This will force the grout evenly into the grout joints.   Immediately remove all excess grout from the tile surface by holding the grout float at a 90° angle to the tile and drawing it diagonally across the tile. Finally, clean by soaking grout sponge in clean, cool water. Wring out excess water completely. Use dampened sponge in a circular motion to smooth grout joints and clean off any remaining excess grout. Continued rinsing of sponge in clean, cool water will aid in cleanup. Avoid excess water in grout joints. For final cleaning/haze removal, allow grout to cure for 24 hours. Use a damp sponge then soft cloth to polish off residue.