Any tips for grouting awkward tiles?

blakes · Post by **blakes** » Wed Sep 10, 2008 3:16 pm

I've finally tiled my kitchen (pics to come soon) and have begun grouting them. The tiles have wavey edges and the surface is not smooth, its kind of dimpled, washed stone type effect.

After applying grout I left it for a while (perhaps slightly longer than the 15 mins suggested in the 'how to' section on here) then proceeded to remove it. Unfortunately the grout had set enough to become stuck in the dimples and its an absolute nightmare to get out. We are talking hours with a stanley knife blade.

So.... I left it slightly longer than the 15 minutes because I didn't want to disturb the grout between the tiles with my damp sponge. Can anyone offer any good advice as to how I should go about my grouting - before I start grouting again! Perhaps I should have more confidence in the grout after only 15 minutes?

Thanks in advance.

SodMod · Post by **SodMod** » Wed Sep 10, 2008 7:24 pm

Was it ready mixed grout?

blakes · Post by **blakes** » Thu Sep 11, 2008 9:35 am

No I mixed it myself as per the instructions. 1 part water to 4 parts grout powder (in weight).

Post by **ultimatehandyman** » Thu Sep 11, 2008 9:39 am

If it is drying that quickly then it may be best if you remove the excess after 10 mins or so. Drying times can vary with products/ambient temperature etc.

I once siliconed around a window and someone knocked at the door, it took me literally two minutes to walk to the door and let them in. I applied some washing up liquid to my finger to smooth the silicone, but it had gone off already

blakes · Post by **blakes** » Sat Sep 13, 2008 10:50 am

Thanks peeps. I didn't wait as long this time and it was miles easier. Also, one thing I've found that really helps with getting the grout off tiles that were left too long - furnature polish! Mr Sheen works a treat!