Before grouting, let the tile adhesive cure for at least 24 hours. Remove the spacers with a spacer puller and clean any adhesive out of the grout lines with a bristle brush before applying the grout.

Pour a quart to half gallon of grout on the tiles. Holding a hard-edged rubber grout float at a 30-degree angle, spread the material in sweeping arcs, pressing it into the joints to fill them completely.

Hold the grout float at a 90-degree angle and sweep it diagonally across the tiles to remove any excess grout.

Wait a few minutes while the grout begins to harden. Wipe the tiles in a circular motion with a damp sponge, taking care not to drag out any of the grout from the corners of the tiles.

Once the grout has hardened, the tiles will be left with a slight haze on them. Clean it up by going over the area lightly with a damp cloth, then buff immediately with a dry cloth.

Let the grout dry for the length of time recommended by the manufacturer before applying sealer. Spread the sealer with a small paintbrush or a sealer applicator. Clean off any smears within the first 5 minutes or so. Then let the grout dry for at least 24 hours.

Caulk acts as both a sealer and as an expansion joint: it will flex if the floor expands or contracts as the weather changes. In wet areas, in front of a bathtub or shower, or wherever the expansion gap will not be covered with shoe molding, fill the gap with caulk and smooth it with a wet finger.

RELATED PROJECTS

Installing Cement Backerboard

Laying Out the Tiles

Setting the Tiles