Keracolor Unsanded Grout Installation

Mix the grout by hand or with a slow-speed drill in a container, such as a bucket. Mixing with a marginal trowel is the preferred method, as using a drill can sometimes whip air bubbles into the mixture, which can cause pinholes in the grout joints during the curing process. Add water slowly, in small increments, until you achieve a creamy, peanut butter consistency.

Allow the grout at least 10 minutes to slake. Slaking is the process by which the water in the grout has a chance to completely permeate the polymers and pre-mixed concrete solutions as well as the colored pigment within the grout. Re-mix the grout after it has slaked to achieve spreading consistency.

Spread the grout with a rubber grout float. Scrape sufficient grout out of the bucket onto your work area, and force the grout into the joints between the tiles. Spread the grout in wide, sweeping strokes with the float held at a nearly flat angle while you apply pressure. Cover each joint from different angles to ensure total coverage. Wipe the surface clean by holding the float at a 45-degree angle and pulling the excess grout diagonally across the joints.

Wait for the grout to set up before washing--20 to 25 minutes is generally sufficient, but you can check the grout by touching the joint with your finger. If the grout sticks to your finger and is still tacky, it is too early to wash. If your finger comes away clean, proceed to wash.

Smooth the grout joints over with a damp sponge. Wring as much water out of the sponge as possible and give the surface a rough-wash by moving the sponge in circular motions over the joints, applying only light pressure. Rinse the sponge out frequently. Wipe the joints in a diagonal direction to remove the remaining haze and grout film and allow the grout to dry.