If you enjoy DIY, you might decide to tackle tiling your shower and part of this project entails grouting your tiles. Tile grout has two main functions; to create a decorative look, and to seal the tiles from ingress of water into the plaster beneath. One major cause of leaking showers is faulty grouting. Before you begin your project, check out these expert tips for perfect tile grouting every time!
The right stuff
When you are tiling in an area that is damp or where the tiles are likely to get wet, for example in your shower, always use a grout additive. You can obtain additives that imbue the grout with additional water resistant qualities from good tiling and DIY stores. All you need to do is add the product to your grout, as per the manufacturer's directions.
Take your time
Don't be in too much of a hurry to get on with your grouting once the tiles are laid. Always wait until the underlying adhesive is completely dry, wipe the tiles over to remove stray splats of adhesive, and then begin grouting.
When you've completed grouting, always make sure that the grout has dried completely before you clean the tiles. If you wipe over the tiles with a damp sponge too soon, you risk removing some of the grout and spoiling the job. Always wipe diagonally across the tiles so that your sponge doesn't catch on the tile edges and dislodge the grout.
Avoid sloppy grout
The ideal consistency of your grout should be the same as your toothpaste. If the grout is too sloppy or loose, it won't stay put when you try to apply it.
Take your time to mix the grout to the perfect consistency, remembering to add your water resistance additive. It usually works best to add the water to the grout powder rather than the other way around.
Use the right technique
Always use a proper grout float to apply your grout. Spread the grout diagonally across the tiles, using the float to press the grout firmly into the lines between the tiles. This technique means that you won't risk crashing the float into the gaps between the tiles and ending up with uneven application or holes in the grouting.
Avoid the edges of the tiling, corners, and the join between floors and walls; you should use silicone sealant here.
In conclusion
You can achieve a great result when tiling your shower by following the professional grouting techniques described above.
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