I have just finished to tile and grout a full bathroom. the costumer very happy with the work. But they asked me we the grout has sunken back a bit into the gap between the tiles? and way it is not level with the new tiles. That was the first time someone asked me that. I tried to explain and said, it is to do with the grout shrink a bit when it dry off. Is that right? But what is most importantly, is there any way stopping it from shrinking like this or how do you get the perfect finish?

Thanks

Sasi

Hi.. Should not really sink.. maybe you are mixing the grout to wet and also washing off to early.. grout has to set sufficiently before washing off or you will remove some as you wash down.

Hence your hollowing of the joints, but also if it is too wet then it will sink as the water dries..

Hello Dave, so you saying that if the grout is in the right consistency and if I didn't wipe it too early it will still shrink just a little bit, is that right?

Is it wall or floor grout?
Was it ready mixed grout?

This are wall tiles the grout is not ready mix. I should explain my self better. The sinking/shrinking of the grout wasn't something more then you might expect. But, we used porcelain tiles (rectified). I just want to know if you can get a complete even level of tile and grout? Would you go over it again or this shrinkage is something you just expect.

It was my mistype.. lol

No it should not shrink..if mixed to correct consistency and allow to set up before washing down..