Finishing Phase|Step 29 of 33

Grout and Seal

Grouting fills the gaps and locks tiles in place. Sealing protects your work for years. These steps make or break your tile job.

Time Required

2-4 hours + drying

Cost

$30-$80

Difficulty

Moderate

Grout Types

Sanded Grout

$10-$20/bag

For grout lines 1/8" or wider. Stronger, more durable. Most common for floor and backsplash.

Unsanded Grout

$10-$20/bag

For grout lines less than 1/8". Smoother finish. Used with polished marble or glass tile.

Epoxy Grout

$30-$60/unit

Waterproof, stain-proof, no sealing needed. Harder to work with. Sets fast. Best for high-moisture areas.

Pre-Mixed Grout

$15-$30/bucket

No mixing required. Convenient but more expensive. Good for small projects and beginners.

Grouting Steps

  1. 1Mix grout: Follow package directions. Peanut butter consistency. Let slake 10 min.
  2. 2Apply with float: Hold at 45° angle. Push grout into joints. Work diagonally.
  3. 3Remove excess: Scrape float at 90° to pull off extra. Work in small sections.
  4. 4Wait 15-30 minutes: Grout should be firm but not hard. Touch test.
  5. 5Sponge clean: Damp sponge, wring well. Wipe diagonally. Rinse often.
  6. 6Buff haze: After 2-3 hours, polish with dry cloth or cheesecloth.

Sealing Guide

  • Wait time: Seal after grout cures. Usually 48-72 hours, check package.
  • Penetrating sealer: Soaks in to protect. Invisible. Most common choice.
  • Topical sealer: Creates surface barrier. Can change appearance. More maintenance.
  • Application: Brush, spray, or roll on. Wipe off excess. Let dry completely.
  • Reapply yearly: Or when water stops beading. Kitchen grout sees a lot of abuse.

Grout Color Tips

  • Match tile: Blends in, hides imperfections. Safe choice.
  • Contrast: Highlights tile pattern. Shows every flaw. Bold choice.
  • Gray: Hides dirt better than white. Practical for busy kitchens.
  • White: Classic but shows everything. Requires more maintenance.
  • Test first: Grout dries lighter than wet. Test on scrap tile.

Pro Tips

  • •Work in small sections: Grout sets fast. Don't spread more than you can finish in 15 min.
  • •Keep sponge barely damp: Too wet pulls grout out of joints and weakens it.
  • •Use caulk at corners and edges: Where backsplash meets counter or wall, use matching caulk, not grout.
  • •Don't skip sealing: Unsealed grout stains permanently. Coffee, wine, tomato—all disasters.
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