Grouting quarry tiles

[Perfect Tiling]

Hi guys...is there a good tip out there for grouting quarry tiles on an outside step to avoid staining the tile. Thought about sealing them first as they have quite a rough surface finish. Thanks

[david campbell]

i would seal them before and after grouting

[Stewart]

I would seal them before grouting too, just make sure you keep the sealer on top of the tile and not in the grout-lines as this can stop the grout taking to the tile.

[david campbell]

using a small roller will help you using excessive sealer and it dripping down the joints

[Perfect Tiling]

Thanks for all advice guys...tiling for years and never touched a quarry tile. Fisrt time for everything!!

[Rob Z]

Hi PT,

Here in the US (and maybe in other areas too?) quarry tiles are often shipped with a wax coating on them, them steam cleaned after grouting. THis is done in commerical jobs, restaurants, etc.

What I've done with quarries is to use a "grout release". It's not the same thing as a sealer. Instead, it's a thick, yogurt-like substance that can be rolled onto the surface of the quarries and allowed to dry. It does a great job of keeping the grout was biting into the surface of the quarry tile.

You're doing the opposite from us-just getting your first quarry job, and for me it's been some time since a customer had quarries for us to install. Good luck.