Yet grout is more than just functional.

With hundreds ofcolors to choosefrom, grout is an important style element in the overall tile design.

Both cost about the same: $15 to $20.

Grout pressed with rubber tile float on marble tile floor

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

This means that premixed grout is about six times more expensive than dry grout.

When to Grout a Tile Floor

Thinset mortartakes 24 hours to fully dry before grouting.

For tile adhesives, wait 48 hours.

Materials and tools to grout a tile floor

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Because this is an indoor project, weather should not affect when you grout the floor.

Slowly add the amount of water specified in the product instructions.

Add grout additive, if desired.

Tile joints cleaned with shop vacuum hose

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Chuck the mixer attachment into the power drill.

Turn the drill on low speed and mix the grout until it has a smooth, peanut butter-like consistency.

Do not add grout additive to premixed grout.

Dry gout mixed with water in red bucket

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Add Grout to Tile

Pick upgroutfrom the bucket and drop it on the tile.

Begin with just a small amount.

When you select your float, ensure it’s appropriately sized for the tile you’re installing.

Large sponge lightly dampening tile floor

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Be careful not to dig out grout from the joints.

Clean off Grout Haze

After the grout has hardened,mix grout haze cleanerin clean water.

Wipe down the tile with a tile sponge until the tile is clean.

Mixed grout dropped on tile floor

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

For more vibrant or unusual colors, it’s possible for you to special order pre-tinted grouts from suppliers.

Or add your own liquid color acrylic to white grout for an infinite number of choices.

Rub your hand over the area to smooth it out.

Grout being pressed into tile floor joints with rubber float

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Seal Grout

Usegrout sealantto seal grout about every six months.

This helps prevent grout degradation.

Call a tile company for larger tile floors or for complicated tile designs.

Grout smoothed out rubber float between tile joints

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Generally, you gotta wait 15 to 30 minutes before wiping off tile grout.

Wipe off with a soaked sponge or microfiber cloth.

Apply grout at a 45-degree angle and squish into the joints between tiles.

Excess grout cleaned off with damp sponge

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Apply extra as you go.

Grout haze cleaner and water mixture spread with sponge on tile floor

The Spruce / Kevin Norris