Grout float Hardy For working with epoxy grouts, with a special hardened surface. For grouting between tile joints you will need special tools: rubber spatula, joint molder and grout float (for grouting joints in mosaics and small tiles).
Grouting tool in Russia
If the grater fails, you will need acid cleaners. This is how you shouldn't throw it away accompanying documents immediately after purchasing the grout. This deposit can be removed with a piece of clean cloth, gauze, or additionally by wiping with a clean and well-wrung out sponge. If there is glue left on the surface of the tile, this may cause difficulty in cleaning it.
Level and smooth the seams using a jointer, a wooden stick with a sharpened end, or the end of a toothbrush. For greater efficiency, fill the grout along its entire length, not around individual tiles. If you will only be applying sealant to the seams, use a small brush.
Foam float for tile joints
Wait a few minutes and check again. Then smooth the edges of the seams with a sponge. An ordinary porous sponge is perfect for this. After processing the seams with jointing, it is necessary to finally clean the surface. After two passes, the sponge must be thoroughly rinsed. Clean the tiles and grout thoroughly and let them dry for a few days.
In this case, the coloring substances penetrate into the porous structure of the top layer. The polish is applied to the floor after the grout has completely hardened. You can moisten the surface of the tiles using a garden sprayer. With its help you can test a small area of the surface. (Another reason why grout can crack and crumble is if there is too much liquid when mixing the grout). For example, some tilers pour dry grout over the joints (so that the wet grout in the joints dries faster).
If the grout has set very quickly, wet removal of the grout will be labor intensive. In any case, all tile joints must be the same shape and depth.
When grouting a seam, try to work specifically with the seam, and not simply smear the grout over the entire surface of the tile. After some time, wet cleaning begins. During the grouting process, the liquid will leave the grout joint, this is how the material will harden and the joints will be filled with particles of cement and sand. There are many tricks for cleaning grout, some of them quite unusual. With cement grout such problems will not arise. If you will be sealing both tiles and grout in the joints, use paint roller. (If this happens, simply add a little grout to the joint and smooth the surface of the joint with the edge of a float).
Grouting ceramic tiles
Then, using a sponge, you need to trim the edges of the seams. The stronger the resistance, the more densely the seam is filled and the stronger it will be. First fill horizontal and then vertical seams. If you were working with glazed tiles, you can start grouting right away.
You should squeeze out a little more grout than you think is necessary, because after the first setting, you should compact the grout into the seam using a piece of smooth metal tube, the diameter of which is larger than the width of the seam or joint. The fact is that the wider the seam, the more likely it is to crack. The size of the seam depends on the method of processing the edges of the tiles. After half an hour, you can remove excess grout.
Thus, we fill all the voids around the tile. Start cleaning when the grout remains in place. (If you move the sponge quickly or intermittently, grout streaks will remain on the surface of the tiles.)
Recommendations on how to grout joints on tiles. What materials are needed?
As a result, the seams should be tightly filled with grout. If the tile is unglazed, the top and lateral surface Each tile needs to be moistened.
The grout in the seams should be elastic and dense, but not hard. First, rinse and wring out the sponge well. Take a tool with an abrasive coating. This is done so that the unglazed surface does not absorb moisture from the grout.
The fastest way to grout seams on tiles: all the subtleties of grouting ceramic tiles
It can be removed without difficulty. After cleaning the surface, wipe it with a well-wrung out sponge. The material in the seams should be dense and elastic, but not hard.
And the appearance of condensed salts on the seam is almost inevitable. Important: such grouts can cause irritation and inflammation of the eyes, and have a negative effect on the skin and lungs. Usually, all horizontal seams (along the x-axis) are filled first, and then the vertical ones (along the y-axis).
Grouting joints when laying ceramic tiles
Don't go to extremes and make seams that are too narrow. When using tiles square shape It is best to make three-millimeter seams. Too wide seams seem to visually suppress the tiles.
Epoxy grout is quite difficult to work with due to its high viscosity. Classic way. In this case, you need to wait 15-20 minutes and give the seams a chance to dry. You can use a sponge to assess the readiness of the surface of tiles and grout joints for cleaning: wet the sponge as much as possible and then test small plot cladding surfaces.
Self-grouting of tile joints
The seam must be tightly filled with mortar. Then apply the sealant following the manufacturer's directions. Cleaning can begin when the grout in the joints remains in place. For this purpose you will need jointing. Over time, seams treated with this composition will begin to turn yellow when exposed to moisture. Apply the prepared solution evenly to the surface of the tiles (if you are processing floor tiles, you can simply pour the solution from a bucket) and distribute it using a grout float, choosing the appropriate option (for the wall or floor).
It is better to start grouting the joints from those parts of the room that will later be hidden by furniture - you can practice before working on the “critical areas”. You should squeeze out a little more grout than seems necessary. Manufacturers recommend wet cleaning using acid-containing substances, such as, say, Detergres. Continue this process until the entire area of the cladding is completely cleaned, trying to act carefully so that again the sponge does not pull the grout out of the joints.
All about grouting tile joints
Cleaning should begin when the grout has not yet hardened, but is not pulling out of the seams.
It is better to read them carefully first. Grouting tile joints begins with selecting suitable materials for this. If the grout has set very tightly, then to remove it you will have to use an abrasive grater (it does not leave scratches on the surface of the tile).
Using tiles irregular shape– wider (but not more than 12 mm).
Grout on cement based differ in the additives that are included in the material. It is very important to give all seams the same shape and depth. To do this, use a clean and well-wrung out sponge to make a pass about 1 m long, turn the sponge over to the other side and make another pass. For one pass, use the freshly washed side of the sponge. This is a dry mixture that must be diluted with water or liquid latex before use.
The duration of the interval between stages is determined individually and depends on the room conditions and the type of grout. Also, too much waterlogged grout can contribute to the destruction of joints. We repeat the procedure several times.
High-quality grout for tile joints in the bathroom - materials and work steps
When all the joints are filled, to remove excess grout you will need a float, which should be held at almost right angles to the surface of the tiles (as shown in the picture). After the compressed grout has set in the seam (this takes about half an hour), the excess should be removed with a stiff brush. This is especially noticeable when dark-colored tinted grouts are used. The sponge must be moved strictly parallel to the seams.
Such grouts are absolutely not suitable for rooms with high level humidity. The grout in the seams should be dense and elastic. It's better to do this before purchasing.
Tools for painting and finishing works
Use a very damp sponge to evaluate. Before grouting, the seams and the tile itself must be moistened with a small amount of water. We take all reasonable precautions to protect the confidentiality of your data.
To effectively fill, work along the entire length of the joint rather than around individual tiles. Move the sponge parallel to the seam, carefully removing any ridges and filling any gaps with a small amount of grout using your fingertip (wear tight rubber gloves to do this). Hold it at a 30-degree angle to the tile (as shown in the photo) and apply grout diagonally to the surface of the tile (as shown in the photo).
How to dilute tile grout
A stiff brush will help with this task. If you do this quickly, streaks will remain on the tiles. If the tiles have smooth, sharp edges, then it is better to make the seams flush with the surface of the tile.
The next step is to inspect the grout joints, level them and smooth them using a jointer (a wooden stick with a sharpened end) or a toothbrush. It is considered best to fill horizontal and then vertical joints first. It is worth testing the cleaning on a small fragment of the cladding first.
It should be held at an angle of 30 degrees to the tile and grout should be applied diagonally. This is how you use respirators, rubber gloves and safety glasses while working. This will help protect the seams from deformation.
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How to grout joints between tiles
Rubber spatula for grouting joints, selection rules
The finished look of the laid tiles will be given by competent, carefully executed grouting of the seams of the tile covering. This is the final touch on which the overall impression of the work done depends. In order not to spoil the joints between tiles, and to perform this important operation successfully, you will need good tool. Such a device will be a spatula for grouting, which will help put an end to renovation work in the bathroom.
The result of the work depends on the correctly selected grouting device, so it is important to know the types, features of the use of various spatulas and their care. The tool can be a universal acquisition for a beginner home handyman, and for a professional specialist.
Description of the tool for troweling
A departure from its usual metal plastering and painting counterparts, the grouting spatula is made of a solid alloy piece of rubber with cut edges, like a knife blade. The plasticity of the material and the ability of the spatula to bend allow:
- work gently and carefully decorative surfaces no risk of surface damage;
- significantly facilitate the work in embedding hard to reach places due to design features.
A distinctive feature of a rubber spatula, in contrast to its painting counterpart, is the large size of the tool, work cloth which reaches 80 cm. In work, this factor creates an advantage, as it speeds up grouting on a large surface of the walls or floor. Quite tiny models are often used, up to 4 cm, suitable for processing corners and difficult places.
For convenience, the rubber spatula is equipped with a wooden or plastic handle, which corresponds to the overall lightness and plasticity of the tool, adapted for grouting tile joints with various finishing compounds in the form of cement or epoxy mixtures. Varieties without handles are suitable for grouting in corners, difficult niches and other hard-to-reach areas.
Purpose of the spatula
The rubber spatula is intended for construction and repair work:
- for grouting tile joints and parquet joints;
- removing the remains of the construction mixture.
The work is of a finishing or restoration nature of varying complexity, so maintaining the surface without scratches or other damage is important factor. Apply devices different sizes depending on the size of the processed plane.
The low price of a set of several instruments allows you to consider them consumables. Rubber is an ideal material in terms of quality characteristics for dense and reliable grouting of joints.
Tool requirements
The design of the spatula, at first glance, is so simple that it seems impossible to damage the tool. But practice shows that there are details and properties that affect the comfort and productivity of work:
- pen. It must be adapted for long-term use through a convenient design that prevents hands from being contaminated with the grout mixture. The shape of the handle should facilitate applying pressure to the grout mixture, filling the seam or tile joint.
Grouting ceramic tiles: step-by-step instructions and tips
Sufficient pressure will compact the composition and enhance performance;
- rubber sheet. The shape, density, and plastic properties should serve to unhindered collection of excess mixture from the tiles after filling the joints, and the cone-shaped edges should serve to press the grout even in the corners. Surface cleaning must be complete, without the possibility of filling pores and small cracks.
Rubber and rubber blades of spatulas are similar in appearance, but differ significantly in wear resistance and durability. The versatility of rubber lies in its water resistance and chemical resistance. Rubber ages quickly and either degrades or becomes brittle and breaks.
Rubber spatula
Rubber spatula
Multilayer rubber spatula
Types of spatulas
Among the huge variety of spatulas, these devices may vary:
- by shape: the trapezoidal rubber spatula is in first place in popularity, followed by a rectangular one, then a rectangular one with a rounded edge, a figure eight and a wedge-shaped one;
- by color: the main colors of rubber are black and white. This is not just coloring, but a reflection of the rigidity of the canvas. The black version is tougher. They are more effective at compacting grout without leaving voids. The white version is more delicate, softer, suitable for finishing joints, as well as tile seams;
- by types of handles: Many instruments are equipped with a trapezoidal plastic handle. This convenient option, but believe that the handle-bracket is more conducive to efficiency in work. The price of such models is higher. The choice depends on the volume of work and intensity of use. Options for grouting tools with wooden handles or holders are also found, as are solid rubber sheets without handles;
- by purpose: grouting and for grouting: Filling joints with cement or epoxy grout is done with the main types of spatulas. The jointing is done with a special rubber spatula. round shape. This variety was introduced by Kiilto, and then other manufacturers began to add similar models to grout packages.
There has always been a need for such a device for forming a seam; before, craftsmen used improvised means, used a piece electric cable with a cross section of 6-10 mm.
It should be noted that a round trowel can be used effectively when the grout is soft, but with hard grout it is more difficult to form a joint.
How to use the tool correctly and in what cases
The technical rubber of the tool is perfectly sharpened: the blade is cut at an angle during production. The chamfer location is the working side of the spatula. The tool is ideally suited for difficult areas, adapts to any shape: cylinder, arc, cone. Models without handles of various shapes are needed for grouting seams, joints behind pipes, in arched finishes, and niches. The rubber tool is suitable for processing seams of tiles and decorative stone, sealing joints of linoleum, parquet, and ceramics. Puttying work cannot be carried out with a rubber spatula. Neither the design nor the handle are suitable for these types of work.
Experts believe that the process of grouting with a rubber tool is convenient and can be adjusted in two basic movements: bring the mixture on a spatula to the depth of the seam, and then remove excess from the surface. The jointing gives the finished look, the final relief. Sometimes jointing is done with the rounded side of a rubber spatula, sometimes with an adapted handle or a separate tool.
The main thing to remember is that grouting work is carried out after the tile adhesive has completely dried.
Remains of dry grout are removed from the surface with a clean or new (if available) rubber spatula. If you washed it, you need to wait until it dries completely. You need to hold the tool almost perpendicularly, do not press too hard so as not to remove the applied mixture from the joints of the tile or stone.
About quality, manufacturers and cost
Using the “right” tool is the key to successful and high-quality work and a professional approach to finishing.
Manufacturers of the companies STAYER, SPARTA, FIT, and the domestic company “Zubr” took into account the experience and practice of using spatulas to make them as convenient and versatile as possible.
You can purchase tools at retail, small and large wholesale. Depending on the size and design features the price per piece averages from 45 to 80 rubles. The cost of sets of three rubber spatulas (40 mm, 60 mm, 80 mm) ranges from 50 to 80 rubles. White rubber is valued higher, by about 10%. Purchasing tools in small wholesale (as consumables) is the most profitable: the price per piece is no more than 35 rubles.
Rubber spatula Bison
Rubber spatula STAYER
Instrument care
Inexpensive rubber spatulas can be considered consumables and should not be saved if renovation work completed and the tool will no longer be needed. For those who are professionally engaged in finishing work, it is a pity to part with convenient device and they will need the following advice:
- You can extend the service life of the tool by regularly cleaning its surface from building mixtures;
- you should monitor the appearance of microcracks, their appearance will interfere with the elasticity of the tool, since the solution will get into the cracks;
- The edges of the rubber sheet must be smooth, without nicks or cracks. If you want to keep the tool in working condition, you can carefully trim the damaged areas.
Correct, careful use will significantly increase the service life of the spatula.
How to make the right choice
When choosing a tool, you should take a closer look at the following details:
- the rubber sheet must be sharpened, this is important for troweling work;
- evaluate the rigidity of the spatula and compare it with the characteristics of the materials (tiles, stone, composition of the grout mixture);
- convenience of the handle (if it is wooden, then the application of drying oil is required to extend its service life).
A rubber spatula will help you work successfully and with pleasure, and achieve beautiful, high-quality results.
It would seem that the first rubber spatula you come across for grouting joints, or even an ordinary rubber band, would be suitable for jointing. But the ease of doing the job and the final result will depend on the quality of the tool. If you often lay tiles or simply value ease of use, this article is for you. In it I will talk about the tool for grouting tiles, its choice and differences.
In the photo you can see several options for rubber spatulas
- The first spatula is the most popular. It has a comfortable handle, but small work surface, therefore reducing productivity. Imagine how much time it will take to grout a mosaic with such a tool.
- The second option has an inconvenient handle, so it is more difficult for them to work, and your hands will get dirty.
- A third angled spatula will sometimes be handy when plastering works, filling the seams between decorative stone, in corners or in figured friezes.
- The fourth trapezoidal rubber spatula from Raimondi is better than all previous options: it has a comfortable handle and a large working surface. Essentially this is an improved version of the second option.
- Number 5 shows several options for grouting spatulas from the Raimondi catalog. Many tilers prefer to work with such floats. They have replaceable nozzles made of rubber or caoutchouc. Such a tool can easily last even ten years, you can see proof of this in the photo. But when working with it, you need to carefully squeeze out the rubber from the remaining grout, otherwise it will lose its elasticity over time. Therefore, I have now switched to a thick rubber nozzle with a cone. With the sharp edge of a grater it is easy to press the mixture even in corners. The rubber is easy to clean and does not become clogged with the mixture.
The spatula with a rubber attachment lasted about 10 years. Over time, the side became uneven, so I had to sand it with a grinder.
Quick navigation through the article
Grouting devices
It is also worth mentioning other tools for grouting.
Tools for cleaning tile grout
Let's sum it up
Master class on grouting floor tiles look at the video:
Basically, all the tools presented are needed for professional tilers. For a one-time job, it will be enough to buy only one spatula-grater with a rubber nozzle.
The final stage during installation ceramic tiles or artificial stone is grouting joints with a spatula, which gives the surface a complete aesthetic appearance, and also protects the joints between individual elements from moisture and the development of harmful microorganisms. 
Modern grouts differ in color design, thanks to which they can be selected in such a way that they fit under external design the rest of the surface. Spatula for grouting joints between tiles, will be the right choice, the use of this tool allows you to ensure better filling of the seams. If you are wondering what tools are used to lay tiles on the floor, then this one will help you.
Why should these tools be chosen correctly?
A spatula for grouting joints is a specialized device, the configuration of which is designed in such a way that this operation can be done quickly and efficiently. Its main difference from the painting analogue long length, so working with it is easier and faster. It comes with plastic or wooden handle, due to which it has a relatively light weight, which also makes it possible to significantly simplify the work. 
Another difference is that its fabric is quite thin, and it has a rounded shape at the end, so it can be used to quickly give the seam a curly shape without using additional devices for this. Typically, the canvas is made from rubber, but sometimes other materials are used.
Best Spatula Configurations
A tool with this configuration is convenient and practical when grouting joints between tiles. They are convenient for mixing grout, and at the same time, due to its flexibility, the product does not damage the container in which the mixing is carried out. For this reason, the possibility of foreign objects getting into it is minimized. Soft rubber allows the joints to be filled tightly with grout, and ensures that no air voids remain inside the composition, leading to a decrease in the quality and strength of the joints, and as a result, a reduction in the service life of the tiles.
The most popular types of these tools:
- gear;
- rubber.
Notched spatulais an auxiliary tool for working with ceramic tiles, decorative stone and others facing materials. Its main purpose is to optimally evenly level the glue over the surface of the floor or wall. It is more advantageous in comparison with the even varieties of these tools, since the geometry of the layer is smooth. Thanks to it, you will be able to avoid future problems such as: the formation of voids between the tiles and areas with an excessive amount of glue, which will be a consequence of poor quality work.
Device of a notched spatula.
At its edges there are cells with a square cross-section. For this reason, the distance between the teeth is always known; it is equal to the height and width of the teeth. It also has a comfortable, streamlined handle, making it easy and pleasant to hold, thereby facilitating the work process.
Serrated tools are classified by tooth length and are available in a wide variety on the market. Buying spatulas with teeth of four to five millimeters will not be very justified, since the adhesive applied to almost any wall is more than six millimeters thick. To level completely crooked walls, use tools with a tooth length of 12 millimeters.
Rubber spatula.
This tool can be of three types: soft, painting and trowel.
Soft rubber spatula.
The material used to make this tool is technical rubber, so it is highly flexible. The work takes place from the chamfer side. The tool has a comfortable handle and is sold sharpened.
The scope of its application is wide, it is Finishing work– smoothing wallpaper, sealing seams between tiles.
Why is a rubber spatula better than its competitors?
Using this tool you can create a smooth arched surface; it is suitable for grouting joints of stone tiles, because when deformed, it does not spoil the material at all.
What is a paint spatula?
As a rule, it has a black color, because the material for its manufacture is canvas of this color. Its main advantage is that it bends perfectly, so it can adapt to any type of surface. Usually it is sold even without a handle, but simply as a piece of rubber of a rectangular or trapezoidal shape.
It remains to analyze in detail what tool is needed for this.
Tools for stirring grout.
The easiest option is to mix the grout in buckets, in which grout mixture with hydrophobic properties is sold. Regular is sold in paper bags.
You can stir by hand using a trowel. The spatula should be long and rectangular. With this shape of the tool it is easier to stir and remove from the bottom. A narrow metal spatula is less productive.
Mixing the grout manually with a trowel.
Videos often show stirring grout with a drill or screwdriver.
Possibly at low speeds. But this is another one additional tool. Which needs to be washed, stored, purchased, transported. The time gain is small. Except when grouting tiles on a supermarket floor.
At this stage, another important tool is needed - a brush for washing the trowel and bucket.
If you leave it without washing (there are many such advisers) and then simply tap it so that it sprinkles, then everything will not fly off. The new grout (and a different color) will contain pieces of old dry grout from the bucket.
Cleaning grout tools with a brush and water.
Tool for applying grout between seams.
Spatulas for grouting joints were reviewed separately. Turned out to be the best for grouting epoxy grout Litokol. It crushes the mixture perfectly. They are comfortable to work in corners due to their sharp edges. This is the opinion of the majority who have tried it at work. Those who did not do this are still rubbed with a narrow piece of rubber.
Tool for applying grout to joints.
Tools for removing grout and cleaning tiles.
For this stage of work you need to have two tools:
Spatula for removing grout from tiles and a piece soft foam rubber. The beauty of the seam depends on these tools.
The professional spatula is made of high-quality plastic and porous cellulose. Another such tool may be called a “rubber-coated plaster float.”
There are many analogues. There is no other way to call them. The problem with the designers of such devices is that they do not grout the tiles and do not understand the main property of this tool. Having copied externally, they want the product to be a success.
Spatula for removing grout from tiles.
The main difference between such spatulas ( in photos 1-3 ) – soft foam rubber at the base. Often with small pores. It does not collect the dried grout well and quickly becomes clogged with the mixture.
Also, foam rubber is quickly erased, but often it doesn’t get that far because it falls off the handle. If you buy such a tool, then the whole technology is perceived as nonsense.
Not everything is simple with a piece of foam rubber either. If you take the first one you come across, it will last for 2-3 working days. It quickly crumples and turns into a rag. To erode the grout on the tiles with such foam rubber, you have to apply more pressure. This causes depressions on the seam.
I felt the difference by accident when I bought a piece of pink foam rubber at the market. It is more expensive.
Pink furniture foam.
The whole trick is in the density and rigidity of this material.
Foam rubber is made for various needs. The cheapest is packaging or soundproofing. This is the one that is most often used for blurring. It quickly clumps and does not absorb water.
It is necessary to use furniture foam Pink colour. It has more density and rigidity. It does not wrinkle after repeated squeezing. This material lasts for a year without loss of quality.
The thickness also varies. From 20 mm to 100 mm.
Optimal – 40 mm. With greater thickness, it is necessary to rinse more often and thoroughly. The grout remains in the middle of a thick piece and hardens. With a smaller thickness, it does not collect water well.
Pink foam rubber 40 mm thick.
There is denser foam rubber in furniture production - of blue color. I had no such work experience.
Below is information about the classification of foam rubber for furniture. There is a detailed explanation why packaging material loses elasticity:
If you pick the right tools and use them correctly, there is no need for a round spatula to form the seam. The latter has the disadvantage of smearing grains of paint along the seam (for some grouts).
Tools for cleaning tiles from plaque.
This is the last stage in the grouting work. It is necessary to remove from the lined surface the white coating that appears after the cement grout has dried.
You can use a simple dry cloth. It will work. But if you imagine the evolution of this instrument for me, then there will be such a chain.
Work gloves > burlap > piece of towel > felt mitten.
The last option turned out to be the most effective. These gloves are used in welding work. Sometimes they are called “welder’s gloves”. The pile removes plaque well and will never scratch the tiles. One mitten lasts a long time.
You can also use a more rigid option. Scotch Brite sanding sheets for hand sanding. This material has many embodiments. It is necessary to use products that do not contain abrasive material.
They are good for removing hardened grout in pits and deep patterns on tiles.
Felt mittens.
Cleaning of plaque should be carried out after the seam has completely dried.
Dry tiles after grouting.
In such a state as in the photo, it is too early to wipe off the plaque. The seams are raw. When removing plaque, you spread the grout over the tile again. You can wash it again clean water with foam rubber. The next day there will be less plaque and it will be easier to remove. The more cement grout is diluted with water, the weaker it is.
Epoxy grout tools.
To apply epoxy grout, you can use all of the above tools.
Only in this case, some become disposable. The pores on the spatula for washing and foam rubber become clogged with drying epoxy mixture. They lose their performance. If there are significant volumes, one set is not enough and has to be replaced.
Tiler's bucket - is it necessary for grouting work?
Tiler's bucket.
This tool has recently appeared on the Russian Internet market. He was noticed on Western YouTube about five years ago.
The main advantage of a bucket for grouting tiles (its know-how) is the rollers for cleaning the porous material on a grater from the grout mixture.
This innovation allows you to avoid getting your hands wet and work without rubber gloves. Prevents cement from corroding the skin. There is nothing more useful in that set. There are disadvantages:
- The first drawback is the grater that comes in the set. It is covered with soft foam rubber. This is one of the first three options in the photo above.
- The second inconvenience is the bucket itself. As a container it is convenient and roomy. But this is another container that needs to be moved, stored, purchased. The most balanced review of the grouting bucket is here:
It is not for nothing that attempts are being made to combine the idea of cleaning using rollers with existing containers for working with tiles:
- Use a small bath for cleaning.
- Use a simple roller for rolling wallpaper.
Device for squeezing the grater.
Roller for cleaning rubber floats.
Tools for grouting large areas.
A set of such a tool is shown in the video below:
The mixture used there is somewhat thinner than usual. Due to this and repeated, repeated movements on the tile, filling of the seams is achieved. The grout is also “soft” - it hardens for a long time and is easily washed off with a foam sponge.
The second interesting experience was using a “butterfly” mop with a mechanical spin when grouting large areas of tiles on the floor. Its advantage is that the foam head is covered with fluffy microfiber, which makes the mop absorb water, but with a hard surface. The flat surface does not wash out the grout in the seams. This mop can be used to clean even quickly hardening mixtures.
TOOLS FOR REMOVAL OF OLD GROUT.
Sometimes the grout is not the right color or is not applied professionally. In such cases, there is a desire to change it. Removal method old grout of the seams depends on the type of grout applied.
If the grout is class “CG2”, with increased abrasion resistance, then it can only be removed mechanically:
Grinder or DREMEL mini drill. The latter is more convenient.
Tools for removing old grout.
When working with a grinder, it is necessary to pass the cutting wheel along the center of the seam, without touching the side edges of the tiles. Residues around the edges can be easily removed with a knife with replaceable blades.
Grouts Ceresit, Sopro are soft. They can be cut with a knife or a special scraper.
If a knife can only scratch the seam, then it is most likely Mapei grout or a similar grade. Disadvantage of the scraper:
- There is a danger of chipping the tile.
- On hard grout it does not last long, and in some cases it is useless.
Disadvantages of the knife:
- Not exactly laid tile, corners may be chipped.
- In some cases it is useless to use.
Below is a collection of videos (playlist) “How to remove old grout”:
By grouting the joints after laying the tiles, you can achieve two significant results. Firstly, a harmonious surface is created that will fully comply with the design ideas. Secondly, the possibility of mold and mildew occurring is neutralized, and overall contamination is reduced. Naturally, the work must be carried out in compliance with certain rules.
There is a certain period that must be waited before carrying out the necessary activities. Thus, grouting of ceramic tiles is carried out one day after laying the material. Much depends on the glue used. Why can't we wait longer? There are several reasons for this:
- On the second day, the mixture used for cladding retains slight elasticity. This means that it will be easy to remove when cleaning the seams. Subsequently you will have to put in a lot more effort.
- The moisture remaining in the solution promotes better adhesion. Of course, it is possible to additionally wet the gaps. But this can lead to some disadvantages: it becomes liquid and less elastic. It is much more difficult to work with such a mixture.
- Open seams quickly become dirty. Small particles of dust and dirt quickly get into open holes and clog them. This makes it much more difficult to apply the solution.
It becomes extremely clear that such work must be completed on time. Then it will be possible to obtain a coating that will meet all the necessary requirements.
Grouting of joints after laying ceramic tiles is carried out after 24 hours Preparation of the solution
For work you can already use ready mixture, which is sold in construction stores. It just needs to be mixed well before use. There are also dry solutions; they have to be diluted in advance. To prepare you will need the following:
- Water room temperature. It is allowed to pre-settle so that possible inclusions settle to the bottom of the bucket.
- Mixing container. It should be convenient to work with and also be larger than the intended amount of mixture. It should be borne in mind that the amount of material prepared should be such that it is used up before drying begins.
- Spatula or trowel. This tool is necessary for kneading. Of course, you can use a drill with a mixer attachment, but given the small amount of mixture being prepared, this will be a pointless exercise. It's better to do everything by hand to get desired result and do not collect the solution from the walls of the container.
The grout solution is best mixed using a spatula or trowel. The cooking process looks like this:
- Each grout for tile joints contains instructions from the manufacturer. It indicates the amount of water required to prepare the required volume of the mixture.
- Water is poured into the mixing container. Next, a small part of the material is poured. Now you should mix the composition well. If it turns out too dry, then add more water, or vice versa.
- All components must be diluted to a paste. After which the grouting solution is left for about five minutes. Then stirring is repeated.
The result is a homogeneous substance that has sufficient viscosity and elasticity. She is very comfortable to work with. But after some time, the properties will begin to deteriorate.
After mixing all the components, a viscous and very elastic mixture is obtained. Grouting technology
It should be taken into account that grouting tile joints with your own hands is carried out in several stages. The area of continuous work should be two square meters. This is how we manage to do everything efficiently. Of course, when there is sufficient experience, the process speeds up much.
Before grouting the tiles, prepare necessary tool: rubber spatula, grater, rags, sponge, spatula for forming a seam (smoother).
Immediately before applying the grout, you must prepare the necessary tools and rubber gloves
Further activities are as follows:
- When unglazed tiles are used, they are pre-moistened. This is done using a sponge, which helps water penetrate deep into the joints. But this must be done very carefully; drips and excess moisture must not be allowed to occur. When the material is glazed, this process can be skipped.
Advice! It is better not to use tile sponges that are used for washing dishes. There are other options, they are sold in car service departments.
- The pre-prepared mixture is applied to a grout grater. The tool is placed at an angle of thirty degrees to the surface and begins to move it diagonally. This method is used because when moving horizontally or vertically, it is not possible to apply the composition evenly.
When applying grout to the tiles, you must move diagonally - The procedure for grouting tile joints requires some effort. You need to press down on the grater to fill all possible voids. You can also use a rubber spatula for this work. But then the process will take much longer. After all, you will have to press the solution in small portions throughout the entire work area. The spatula is great for hard to reach places and corners.
On a note! Corners are a very noticeable place that is often overlooked. Therefore, work in such areas must be carried out very carefully.
- Having filled all the gaps in the selected area of work, begin grouting using the dry method. To do this, clean the grater from any remaining mixture and place it at an angle of eighty degrees to the surface. And again, all movements are performed exclusively diagonally. This makes it possible to remove excess composition. It happens that the solution is unintentionally removed from the seam - then the mixture is reapplied.
- The surface is left for fifteen minutes. During this time, you can wipe down another area. Now it's time to use the wet method. To do this, moisten the sponge in water, very generously, and begin to move it diagonally. But before proceeding with these manipulations, check that the putty is no longer removed from the seam. You should experiment a little first.
- The next stage is coming. It resembles the previous one, but the differences are that the sponge is wrung out well. And the movements should be circular. Excessive pressure should be avoided. This is how you can remove the grout material. You must remember that the sponge must be constantly washed and wrung out well.
On a note! This process can quickly ruin the sponge, rendering it useless. Therefore, you should have a spare product.
- The sealing of the seams between the tiles is not completed. Next, it’s time to use special devices to form beautiful spaces between adjacent elements. It is convenient to use a special spatula; it looks like a small round stick. When the procedure is completed, the next turn of the sponge begins. It is carried parallel to the seam - erasing all excess. It is possible to obtain a rounded seam. If this is not required, then the gaps are simply leveled flush with the tiles.
- Material with applied glaze. All activities must be carried out very carefully. Such a surface is very easy to damage or even completely ruin. Therefore, the work area is additionally pasted over masking tape. And for work they use sealant in tubes, which is applied with a special gun.
- Products without glaze. Many craftsmen advise covering the entire surface with a protective composition, including tiles. Of course, you will get a layer that will protect it from various influences, but this will ruin the entire appearance. In addition, there is a high probability that such a layer will peel off.
A special round spatula allows you to form beautiful seams It seems that DIY ceramic tile grouting is coming to an end. In fact, it should be taken into account that this event is quite long and requires further continuation. Now you need to wait until the suture material has dried sufficiently, and you can begin to remove the remaining excess, which will be everywhere present on the front side of the product.
For work, an indispensable sponge is used, which is washed and wrung out well. With quick movements it is carried along the surface to the length of an outstretched arm. Each next pass must be parallel to the previous one. If you do everything correctly, then in this way you can remove all the remaining solution. Of course, it will be difficult to do this completely, but it is not necessary. The main thing is to remove large excesses from the tiles, which will dry quickly.
Removing excess grout from tiles Sealing
Sealing – necessary process, which is performed immediately after completion of the grouting work. It is needed to give the seam increased strength. This will protect it from exposure to various chemicals and water. The choice of material is approached with the utmost care. For work, it is better to use compounds that are completely transparent. They are made on the basis of silicone.
On a note! This solution has a rather specific odor, similar to ammonia. Therefore, it is better to perform work in a respirator.
The sealing process makes the seam more durable
Before sealing joints protective compounds, are determined with further actions, which will be focused on the type of ceramic product:
It becomes clear how to use grout and protective compounds. It is sometimes believed that such work does not require compliance with many of the steps described. You can apply the mixture and quickly form a seam. But the result will be quite disastrous. Therefore, only strict adherence to all technological processes– a guarantee of reliability, quality and attractive appearance.
VIDEO: how to properly grout seams on tiles
