Basic Grout Usage

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

FLOOR GROUT is a sanded grout, composed of modified Portland Cement and finely graded aggregates. It is designed for use as a grouting material for any tiled surface with joints between 1/8" and 1/2". FLOOR GROUT is ideally suited for all glazed and unglazed ceramic and mosaic tile, quarry tile, brick pavers, slate, stone, marble and granite.

USES:

Interior or exterior

Commercial or residential baths, kitchens, laundries, walkways, etc.

When a high density wear resistant joint is required

Glazed and unglazed ceramic and mosaic tiles

Ideal for quarry tile, brick pavers, slate, stone, and marble

ADVANTAGES:

Resistant to alkali and abrasives

Provides hard, wear resistant, durable joints

Water resistant

Non-staining, non-shrinking

Extended pot life

Frost proof

INSTALLATION:

Surface Preparation:

All surfaces must be clean and free of dust, dirt, oils, paints and all other contaminants that will prevent proper bond. Make certain no loose material remains in joint. For repair work, remove at least 1/16" of old grout and scrub surface thoroughly with kitchen cleanser.

ANSI specifications recommend waiting 48 hours after initial tile setting before grouting to ensure maximum adhesion of tile to substrate. Remove tile spacers between tiles if they have been used. Dampen surface of tile making certain not to leave any standing water in the grout joints.

Mixing:

Mix FLOOR GROUT with clean water to the consistency of a smooth, trowelable putty, free from lumps. Allow the grout to stand for 15 minutes before using, then remix. Do not add additional water.

Mix only the amount of grout that can be used in 1 hour. When grouting highly moisture absorbent tiles (above 7% level).

Placement:

Using a hard rubber float, fill the joints of the tile working diagonally across the grout joints until they are packed full and are flush with the surface of the tile. As work progresses, turn the grout float perpendicular to the tile and use as a squeegee to remove as much excess grout from the tile surface as possible.

Allow the grout time to acquire its initial set before proceeding. Initial set has occurred when the grout joint can barely be indented when pressed hard with your fingernail. Using a towel or cheese cloth dampened with water, clean excess grout off the surface of the tile by rubbing in a circular motion dressing the joint as work progresses. Use as little water as possible.

Change water often to keep as clean as possible. Do not leave any water or grout residue on the surface of the grout joint. Remove any grout haze remaining after drying with a clean dry towel or cheese cloth.

Curing:

To provide a hard, dense grout joint, damp curing is recommended for the first 3 days after application. Damp cure by covering the installation with natural kraft paper.

After the grout has cured for 10 days, the installation may be cleaned to remove any remaining grout from the surface of the tile by scrubbing with hot water and soap. Acid cleaning is not recommended. After a minimum of 28 days curing, the installation may be sealed with a penetrating sealer.

FOR USED GROUT, PLEASE ALLOW AT LEAST 2 DAYS FOR THE GROUT TO DRY AFTER POLISHING AND SEALING, TO APPLY THE GROUT SEALER.