Tile Work PhaseStep 21 of 27
Grout Your Bathroom Tile
Grouting is the finishing touch that makes your tile installation look complete and professional. Proper technique ensures durable, stain-resistant grout lines.
Quick Summary
Time Needed
4-8 hours
Cost
$50 - $150
Difficulty
Moderate
Choosing the Right Grout
| Type | Joint Width | Best For | Sealing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanded | 1/8" or wider | Floors, wide joints | Required |
| Unsanded | Under 1/8" | Walls, marble, glass | Required |
| Epoxy | Any | Showers, high-traffic | Not needed |
| Pre-Mixed | Varies | DIY projects, small areas | Check label |
Tools & Materials
Tools
- • Grout float (rubber)
- • Mixing bucket
- • Mixing drill and paddle
- • Large sponge (grout sponge)
- • Bucket for rinse water
- • Grout haze remover
- • Microfiber cloths
- • Rubber gloves
Materials
- • Grout (calculate coverage from bag)
- • Grout sealer
- • Clean water
- • Painter's tape (for edges)
Step-by-Step Grouting
1
Prepare the Surface
- Wait at least 24 hours after tiling (check thinset directions)
- Remove all tile spacers
- Clean out any thinset that squeezed into joints
- Joints should be at least 2/3 the depth of the tile
- Lightly mist tiles with water (prevents grout drying too fast)
2
Mix the Grout
- Follow package directions for water ratio
- Mix to thick, peanut butter-like consistency (not runny)
- Let slake (rest) for 5-10 minutes
- Remix briefly without adding water
- Mix only what you can use in 20-30 minutes
Pro tip: Add water to bucket first, then grout. This prevents dry powder from sticking to the bottom.
3
Apply Grout
- Scoop grout onto float and press into joints at 45° angle
- Work diagonally across joints (not parallel)
- Press firmly to pack grout completely into joints
- Work in small sections (3-4 sq ft for beginners)
- Make multiple passes to ensure joints are filled
Important: Don't grout corners where walls meet walls, walls meet floors, or tile meets fixtures. These get caulk, not grout.
4
Remove Excess
- Wait 15-20 minutes until grout is firm but not hard
- Test by pressing finger on joint—should hold impression
- Hold float at 90° angle and scrape excess diagonally
- Don't dig into the joints
5
Clean with Sponge
- Wring sponge nearly dry (excess water weakens grout)
- Wipe diagonally across joints in smooth strokes
- Rinse and wring frequently—clean water is crucial
- Use light pressure—don't pull grout from joints
- Two to three passes are usually needed
- Let haze form between passes (about 10 minutes)
6
Final Cleanup
- Wait 2-3 hours until grout is firm
- Buff off remaining haze with dry microfiber cloth
- Stubborn haze may need commercial grout haze remover
- Don't use vinegar or acidic cleaners on fresh grout
7
Seal the Grout
- Wait 48-72 hours minimum (some products say 28 days)
- Apply penetrating sealer with applicator bottle or brush
- Wipe excess from tile surface within 5 minutes
- Apply second coat if recommended
- Reapply sealer annually in showers
Note: Epoxy grout doesn't need sealing. Check your grout type before this step.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Adding water to grout after it starts to set (weakens it)
- ✗Using too much water when sponging (washes out color)
- ✗Grouting corners and transitions (these need caulk)
- ✗Waiting too long to clean (grout becomes very hard)
- ✗Skipping sealer on cement grout (stains and mold will follow)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use sanded or unsanded grout?
Use sanded grout for joints 1/8" or wider. Use unsanded grout for joints less than 1/8" and for polished marble or soft stone (sanded grout can scratch). Epoxy grout works for any width and is highly stain-resistant but harder to work with.
How long should grout dry before sealing?
Wait at least 48-72 hours for grout to cure before sealing, or follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Some grout needs up to 28 days to fully cure. Don't let water contact the grout during this curing period.
Do I need to seal grout in a shower?
Yes, cement-based grout must be sealed in showers to prevent water absorption, staining, and mold growth. Apply penetrating sealer after grout cures. Reapply annually. Epoxy grout doesn't require sealing.