How to Grout Slate Floor Tiles
Slate floor tiles, like all natural stone tiles, have to be properly sealed before you grout them, or the grout will stain the absorbent surface of the tiles. Sealing the tiles is a simple matter of brushing liquid sealant over them after they've been installed, but before you grout. However, the sealant will also prevent the grout from staying in the lines, so it's important not to let sealant into the spaces between the tiles. Unsanded grout is used to avoid scratching the slate. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Vacuum with hose
- Penetrating tile sealant
- Paintbrushes
- Unsanded grout
- Grout squeegee
- Sponge
Instructions
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1
Clean the newly laid slate tile, making sure it is dry and free of any residual mortar from the installation process. Run your vacuum hose along each of the spaces between the tiles to pull out any residual dust or debris.
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2
Apply a coat of tile sealant on the surface of the slate tiles with a paintbrush, brushing it on smoothly and evenly, with the brush strokes going all in one direction. Make sure not to let any of the sealant get onto the sides of the tiles or into the spaces. Let the sealant dry for an hour.
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3
Brush on a second sealant coat in the same manner. Let it set overnight.
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4
Apply grout to the floor with a grout squeegee, pressing the unsanded grout into the spaces between the slate. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe up the excess grout with a dampened sponge. The sealant on the face of the slate should prevent the grout from sticking or staining there. Allow the grout to set for at least three days.
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5
Reseal the whole floor, grout and all, with a brush, applying two or three layers of sealant. Let the sealant dry for a day.
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Tips & Warnings
Ventilate the room when applying sealant.
