If flakes of a whitish, powdery substance are popping out between tiles, or if you’ve just replaced a tile, you may need to fill in the gaps with grout
Photo by Lazy_camera_girl on Unsplash.
The natural consequence of choosing tiles for an architectural finish would be the gaps between pieces, known as grout joints. These have to be filled with grout to prevent water from seeping into the structure of your home.
It's not just a concern of preserving the structure, with standing water beneath the tiles, the mortar will fall apart, your tiles will come loose sooner, and in the meantime, your bathroom or kitchen will be taking on an unpleasantly musty smell.
Grout is available in a form that is similar to mortar: as an additive to cement, premixed in a tub, or in a tube to be used in a caulking gun.
Grout is usually coloured, so feel free to explore colours that contrast or blend with your tiles.
1. Whatever form of grout you decide on, simply apply small quantities of it into the gaps around your tiles, and
2. even it out with the tip of your finger or a soft tool of similar size.
3. Wipe off any extra bits of grout with a cloth so that you don't have to scrub them off the tiles later.
4. Once the grout has dried, scrub the tile faces of any grout residue with a soft sponge – dip the sponge in white vinegar and apply some elbow grease.
5. Follow up your work with a layer of grout sealant to help the watertight seal around your tiles stay dry and last a little longer.
Disclaimer
This article is intended to convey general information only. It does not constitute advice for your specific needs. This article cannot disclose all of the risks and other factors necessary to evaluate a particular situation.
Any interested party should study each situation carefully. You should seek and obtain independent professional advice for your specific needs and situation.
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