Installing tile flooring in your kitchen is a process that requires multiple steps. Creating perfect grout lines is one part of the process that requires a little bit more practice and patience. It is tedious work. If you have the right tools and supplies for the job, you can create grout lines that are even, smooth, and that will remain strong.
Remove the Mortar From Within the Grout Line
First of all, it's important that you don't apply any grout until your mortar is completely dry. The prep work you do before actually applying the grout is probably the most tedious part of the job. You often need to use a screwdriver or chisel to scrape away any mortar that has dried between the tile. When the tile is first installed and push down, the mortar will squish out, into the lines where the grout is going to go. When this happens, it can be problematic if you don't fix it before it dries. You won't be able to scrape away all of the mortar, but you want to make the grout lines equally deep if possible. If the mortar is almost flush with the top of the tile, you will have problems with the grout. You might also need a hammer to chisel away the stubborn pieces of mortar.
Creating Smooth Grout Lines
To make your grout line smooth and consistent, you need to do a few things. First of all, use the same type of sponge for the entire job. The sponge will ultimately give the grout its texture, so if you let you use different types of sponges on different parts of the grout, texture will not be even. Another thing that affects the texture of the grout is the wetness of this sponge while you wipe it away. So, your goal is to try and keep the sponge evenly wet throughout the process. The amount of moisture depends on the type of grout you are using and what the size of the grout lines. Nonetheless, you will need to keep a bucket of water so you can frequently dip the sponge to keep it perfectly wet and clean throughout the job.
Strong grout lines are the key to a durable and waterproof tile floor. If you keep your sponge clean and perfectly moist, and clean out the mortar before applying the grout, your lines will be stronger and more durable.
Share8 May 2017
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