How to Grout Tile

Follow these tips and tools to grout your tile and bathroom.

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Our bathroom is in pretty good shape because we redid it several years ago, but I'm not happy with the way the grout on the tub walls is holding up. I've already had to touch it up in several places. I want to regrout because the bathroom sees a lot of use and I don't want tiles falling down. What's the best grout to use, and what can I do to ensure the new grout lasts as long as possible?

Smart move to regrout before larger damage is done. Grout that's crumbling and mildew-stained is more than unattractive, it's mechanically unsound and will only continue to crumble unless it's removed and replaced.

A common cause of grout failure is that the installer used too much water in mixing a cement-based material. "That will create a weak and powdery grout joint," according to Patrick Allen, senior technical representative at ­Laticrete International in Bethany, Conn., which makes grouts, mortars and related materials.

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Also keep in mind that some grouts need to be moist-cured. It's not difficult, all you have to do is mist the tile and grout with water from a spray bottle. A sheet of plastic taped in place and draped over the wall holds in the moisture during the curing ­process. Other grouts need to be ­coated with a sealer recommended by the grout manufacturer.

And while it's tempting to use an inexpensive, commodity grout when a heavy-duty version is called for, it's false economy. While a 25-pound bag of cement-based grout might cost $12 to $15, a polymer-modified version of the same product, complete with antifungus additive, may cost about twice that. The grout will look better and last longer.

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The polymer improves the grout's water resistance and makes it more flexible so the grout can withstand temperature fluctuations and wall movement. Finally, thoroughness counts. "The more careful you are with each step in the replacement process," Allen says, "the longer the grout will last and the less maintenance it will require during its lifetime."



Shopping List

Don't Forget the Other Stuff

You need lots of tools and materials to produce a strong and long-lasting grout joint. Here's a sampling.

A. Silicone Tub-and-Tile Caulk

Apply at wall corners or where the wall meets the bathtub.

B. Grout Enhancer


C. Grout


D. Cleaning Supplies


E, F. Floats


G. Rubber Gloves


H. Scrub Brush

Removes grout dust after joints have been cut out.

I. Grout Saw

Cuts failed grout out of joints.

J. Tile Sponge

Wipes off excess grout.

Not Shown

Buckets, soft cotton rags, kneepads for regrouting floors.

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