Ever wonder how to grout a tile floor? It’s no secret that, after living in a house for a while, your surroundings can get pretty boring. You’ve seen the same areas day in and day out and things just aren’t exciting or new like they used to be.

When this happens, it’s common to want to renovate your space, and one of the best ways to do so is to retile some old floor!

Retiling flooring can bring a whole new look to your space without much money or effort. However, the process of how to grout a tile floor can be less than intuitive.

Here’s how you can make sure your new tile job lasts a lifetime (or until you redo it again) by properly grouting the area:

Step 1: Choose and Mix Your Grout Color

When you grout a tile floor, the grout color is something most people think about. But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t.

Proper grout color can bring together your entire tiling job and tie of your space with a big, red bow (figuratively, of course). There are also several grout colors available for various spaces, depending on the look you want to go for.

Here are some tips on choosing your color and mixing your grout:

• Choose a color that provides a compliment or contrast to your space.
• When mixing it up, only mix as much as you’ll be able to use before it starts to set.
• Mix it thoroughly to ensure your color is as accurate as possible.
• Use as little water as you can to ensure a strong and vibrant finished product.

Step 2: Apply Your Grout

Applying your grout isn’t difficult. All you need to do is pour around a quart to half-gallon onto your tile at a time and use a hard-edged rubber grout float to spread it around. When spreading, make sure to hold your tool at a 45-degree angle.

Additionally, we recommend only working on about a 3-foot by 3-foot area at one time so that you can ensure a detailed job. Press the grout into the cracks between the tile, making sure to pack it tight, and then move on to the next area.

Repeat this process until finished.

Step 3: Wipe the Tile with a Damp Sponge

Wait for your grout to begin drying and then softly rub a damp sponge over the tiles, being careful not to get down into the cracks. This will loosen any grout that is on top of the tile and make it easy to remove later. There may be a haze on the tile at this step, but don’t worry. You’ll be able to take care of that later.

There is no need to dry the tiles off at this step. Allow everything to dry before continuing.

Step 4: Remove the Tile Haze

When your tiles have finally dried, there will be a slight haze on them from the grout. Don’t panic, as this is what is supposed to happen.

To remove it, simply work one tile at a time with a damp cloth. Dampen the tile to loosen the grouty haze and then go over it immediately with a dry cloth. Do this with each tile until the haze is gone.

Step 5: Apply Grout Sealer

Grout sealer functions to protect your grout from elements that will wear it away over time, especially in heavily-trafficked areas like your bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor patio. This step is imperative to achieving a long-lasting result.

Once your grout has been allowed to dry for the amount of time recommended on the container (this will change from brand to brand), apply your grout sealer with a small paintbrush or sealant applicator.

Once you’re finished, you’ll want to allow the grout to dry for a minimum of 24 hours.

Step 6: Caulk any Joint Areas

You’ll want to finish your job by caulking anywhere the tiles meet another solid surface; for example, the walls or a bathtub. Caulk is excellent for ensuring no water or dampness gets underneath the tile and provides a nice, finished look to the final product. It will also expand and contract with the house throughout the seasons, ensuring that your tile job never changes or looks patchy.

When applying your caulk, simply apply it to corner areas and smooth away the excess with a damp finger.

Once you’re finished with that, you’re free to enjoy your newly grouted floor!

Stop by our store for all your supplies to grout a tile floor or reach out to us!