New tiles can make any kitchen or bathroom look fresh and new, and they can also be cleaner and easier to maintain than your old tiles. Installing tiles on your own can be more complicated than you realise; even the grout itself is often difficult to work with, and using the wrong grout or installing it incorrectly will make your tile job look very poor. Note a few grouting mistakes most homeowners make that you should try to avoid.
1. Using sanded grout on glass tiles
Glass tiles are a very popular option for homes today because they reflect light and make rooms look bigger and brighter, and go with any décor or style. However, too many homeowners use what is called sanded grout to apply their glass tiles, and this can cause damage including scratches and pitting. The sanded grout can also settle into small cracks and crevices of the tile and because the glass is clear, the grout becomes very visible.
Always use what is called un-sanded grout meant specifically for glass tiles when this is what you're working with. This will help you to avoid damaging the tiles and allowing the grout to settle into the uneven areas of the tile's surface.
2. Incorrect mixture of grout
When grout needs to be mixed, it should be the consistency of pancake batter. This is slightly thicker than the consistency of cake batter, meaning not runny and thick enough that it pours slowly. However, grout should still be thin enough that it can be stirred easily.
Incorrectly mixing your grout before applying it will mean pits and cracks and lack of adhesion. If you're not sure the right consistency for your grout when mixing it, try checking videos online to show you what it should look like when mixed and poured. This can ensure you use the correct ratio of ingredients to get the right consistency.
3. Not packing the joints
Homeowners are often afraid of adding too much grout so that it creates a mess. However, it's always good to add too much grout in joints as you can wipe away any excess; add too little and you won't have any type of adhesion for your tiles. Grout joints should be very full, and contractors may even pack it in with a trowel when applying it, so do the same for yourself. You can then cut away excess grout once the job is completed.
When it comes time to regrout your new tile floor, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional with more information.
Share25 November 2015
Welcome! My name is Frances, and this is my first blog. Whether you found me through a Google search or were passed my link by a friend, I am so glad you found my blog. I plan to fill it with a range of commentary on the world of contracting and construction work, and I hope that you find my ideas compelling and creative. I am a dog trainer, but I have always loved the world of construction. I tend to work a lot on the weekends and evenings, when my clients are off work. As a result, I have a lot of time to write during the day, and I decided to create this blog. Thank you for reading.
