Things You'll Need:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Damp rags
- 2 Buckets
- Long-stemmed spatula
- Rubber grout float
- Sponge
- Caulk gun (optional)
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Step 1
Clean the surface and joints of the tile to remove any dust, dirt or debris. Vacuum out the joints and clean the surface of the tile with a rag dampened with plain water.
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Step 2
Mix the grout by following the manufacturer's instructions. Use a large bucket and a long-stemmed spatula for mixing.
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Step 3
Apply a generous amount of grout onto the surface of the tile. Only apply enough grout to cover a small area at one time. If you try to work on too large of an area, the grout may harden before you can apply it.
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Step 4
Use a rubber grout float held at an angle to spread the grout into the joints. Move the grout float in a diagonal direction over the joints to force it into the spaces.
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Step 5
Clear the excess grout from the surface by holding the float at a sharp angle and moving it diagonally along the joints and tile. You want to do this with each small section you are working on as you are working so that it does not harden.
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Step 6
Clean up excess grout from the joints and tiles as you are working. Fill a bucket with clean water, and clean the grout off with a sponge using a circular motion and rinsing the sponge frequently of the grout. It may take a bit of trial-and-error to determine when you should begin cleaning the grout. Washing it while the grout is too wet will cause you to actually remove grout from the joints. If the grout is too dry, it will harden and not come off with the sponge and water. Check the directions on the grout bag to determine the appropriate length of time to wait for cleaning.
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Step 7
Continue this process throughout the tiled surface area. Do not grout expansion joints, such as those between the walls and floor, corner joints and joints along fixtures. These will get caulked later.
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Step 8
Allow the grout to harden for a couple of days before applying the caulk to the expansion joints.
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Step 9
Place a tube of caulk into a caulk gun for easy application. Squirt the caulk into the expansion joints, filling them completely. Apply caulk around sinks, faucets and plumbing valves as well to protect them from water.
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Step 10
Smooth out the caulk with your finger. Remove excess caulk from the tile with a damp rag.
