You’ve laid your tiles perfectly, but something still looks unfinished, right? That’s because the real magic happens when you learn how to use tile grout the right way. Grouting gives your tiles that clean, polished look and locks them firmly in place so they stay strong for years.

To use tile grout, you fill the gaps between tiles using a smooth cement paste, clean the excess, let it dry, and seal it for a lasting finish. It’s simple when you follow the right steps, but skipping even one can cause cracks or stains later.

In this easy guide, we’ll walk you through the full process step by step, from preparing your tiles to sealing the grout. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to grout like a pro without any confusion.

What is Tile Grout and Why Does It Matter?

Grout is a cement-based paste used to fill the joints between tiles. It holds tiles firmly, prevents dirt and water from seeping under them, and gives your surface a clean, finished look.

Without grout, tiles can shift, edges might chip, and water can cause hidden damage. So, grouting for tiles is a must if you want your tiles to last long and stay neat.

There are mainly two common types of grout:

• Sanded grout – for wider gaps, stronger and less likely to shrink.
• Unsanded grout – for narrow joints or delicate tiles like glass or marble.

Here’s How to Use Tile Grout

Let’s show you the overall process of using tile grout perfectly.

Step 1: Prepare the Area Before Grouting

Before you start applying grout to tiles, your tiles must be completely set and dry. This is one of the most important steps people often skip.

Here’s what to do:

• Wait for the adhesive to cure. Usually, wait 24–48 hours after laying tiles so the adhesive dries properly.
• Remove spacers and leftover glue. Check that no tile spacers or dry mortar are stuck between the joints.
• Clean the surface. Wipe away dust, dirt, or any loose particles from the tiles and gaps.
• Protect surrounding areas. Cover walls, skirting boards, and nearby surfaces using tape or cloth to avoid mess.
• Pre-seal porous tiles (optional). If you’re working with natural stone or unglazed tiles, apply a light sealer before grouting to avoid staining.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Grout

Picking the correct grout type is key to a durable finish. It’s a big part of knowing how to install grout on tile properly.

Grout Type	Where to Use	Key Benefit
Sanded	For gaps 1/8 inch or wider	Strong, less shrinkage
Unsanded	For narrow joints under 1/8 inch	Smooth, gentle on surfaces
Epoxy	Bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor areas	Water and stain-resistant
Polymer or Urethane	Great for heavy-use areas	Modern, flexible joints

If you’re unsure, check your tile packaging or ask your tile supplier. Using the wrong grout can lead to cracks or uneven colour later.

Step 3: Mix the Grout Properly

Before you apply grout, you need to mix it correctly. The goal is to get a texture like thick toothpaste, not too runny and not too dry.

How to mix grout:

• Pour clean water into a bucket first.
• Slowly add grout powder while stirring.
• Use a margin trowel or a drill with a mixing paddle on low speed.
• Mix for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
• Let it rest for 5–10 minutes (this is called slaking).
• Remix briefly before use.

Always mix small batches because grout starts to harden in about 20–30 minutes, and once it sets, you can’t bring it back.

Pro tip: Start with less water. You can always add a bit more, but too much water weakens the grout and causes colour issues.

Step 4: Apply the Grout

Now comes the exciting part: how to apply grouting properly. This is where your tiles start looking finished and beautiful.

Follow these steps:

• Use a rubber grout float.
• Hold it at a 45-degree angle to the tiles.
• Spread the grout diagonally across the tiles, pressing firmly into the gaps.
• Work in small sections, about 2×2 feet at a time.
• Make sure all joints are fully filled, with no gaps or air pockets.
• Use the edge of your float to scrape off extra grout from the surface.

Quick tip: Always spread the grout diagonally. It fills the joints better and stops you from pulling the grout back out.

If someone asks how do you apply grout, this is exactly how it’s done. Firm, even, and patient.

Step 5: Clean Up the Excess Grout

After you’ve filled a small area, don’t clean it right away. Wait about 10–15 minutes until the grout starts to firm up a little. You’ll notice it loses its glossy shine.

Then follow these steps:

• Take a damp (not wet) sponge.
• Wipe diagonally across the tiles, not along the joints.
• Rinse the sponge in clean water after every few wipes.
• Keep changing the water frequently to avoid spreading grout film.
• Once the surface dries, a light haze will appear on the tiles. Use a soft, dry cloth or microfiber towel to buff it off.

If haze remains, you can use a grout haze remover after the grout fully dries (usually after 24–48 hours).

Step 6: Let It Cure and Seal the Grout

After grouting tiles, you need to let it cure properly before sealing or using the area.

• Drying time: Allow 24–48 hours for the grout to dry completely.
• Clean any final haze: Wipe with a dry cloth for a smooth finish.
• Seal the grout: Apply a thin coat of grout sealer with a small brush or applicator.
• Wipe off extra sealer: Clean tiles immediately if any sealer gets on them.

Sealing helps protect your grout from water, dirt, and stains, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Epoxy grout usually doesn’t need sealing.

Quick check: Drop a bit of water on your grout after sealing. If it beads up, your seal is working!

Common Grouting Mistakes to Avoid While Using Tile Grout

When grouting, common mistakes can ruin your finish. Cracks happen if you use too much water or the wrong grout, and patchy colour shows up when different batches aren’t mixed well.

If grout lines are too low, it means you didn’t press the grout deep enough. Sometimes a haze stays on the tiles if you clean too late, and grout can pull out if you wipe too early. 

The fix is simple: use the right mix, press grout properly, clean at the right time, and mix all powder evenly.

Extra Tips for a Professional Finish

• Always use clean water for mixing and rinsing.
• Work on small sections so the grout doesn’t dry too fast.
• For outdoor tile grouting projects, protect the area from sun, rain, or wind during grouting.
• Reapply grout sealer once every year in high-moisture areas.
• Use a tile and grout cleaner regularly to keep everything looking fresh.

Handy Mixing and Coverage Chart

Grout Type	Water Ratio Example	Ideal Joint Size	Coverage (Approx.)
Sanded Grout	2.9 pts water per 10 lbs powder	1/8 inch or wider	1 kg covers around 1.5–2 sq. m
Unsanded Grout	Slightly less water	Narrow joints under 1/8 inch	1 kg covers around 2–2.5 sq. m
Epoxy Grout	Mix as per pack	Any joint	Coverage depends on tile size

Always check your product label for exact measurements.

Keep your tiles looking brand new with professional tile and grout cleaning in Melbourne.  Our experts remove deep stains, seal your floors, and protect them long-term.  Call Melbourne Tile Cleaners today and make your floors shine!

Wrapping Up

Using tile grout might seem tricky at first, but it becomes simple once you know the right steps on how to use tile grout. The key is patience: prepare well, mix correctly, apply carefully, and clean at the right time.

Grouting for tiles is more than just filling gaps; it gives your tiles strength, protection, and that neat finished look. So next time someone asks, “How to apply grout to tiles” or “How do you grout a tile floor,” you’ll know exactly what to say and do.