Hi,

I'm looking for some expert input into the use of 'Grouting tools' - been looking on the internet for what tool is available for putting grout between tiles, rather than cleaning them after they've been installed etc...
Preferably idiot proof

please does anyone have any ideas?

The cleaner and less complicated the better woudl be great...

Thanks!

What sort of tiles do you require grouting ?

It's for the bathroom, small area, but if it's successful I'd like to do more myself.
Not that knowledgable but am researching first, there seems to be a tool for everything - but I can't seem to see anything for actually putting the grout in.

I've found the different types of grout though, online anyway, but not looked in the physical shops yet.

The use of a grouting gun would not really be suitable or that effective on normal tiles. It is more of a use for slate and stone where you dont wish to cover the face of the tile with grout but to be honest most people grout over the tile and the clean off.
So i would really need to know what type of tile you were grouting.

Sir Ramic's right(as usual) you really dont need to spend much on a tool a few quid is all it takes for a grout squeegy/float(different people different name) and a sponge.these will be available from any tile shop or tradetiler link on this site.But they do differ on what tile and what grout so a little more explanation please,i.e what type of tiles? (ceramic or natural stone) what grout?(standard or epoxy?)

Oh and grouting is not as hard as some people think. A few basic facts will have you on your way.

Hi again,
This is helpful.
The tiles I like are the large rectangle wall tile but the surface looks like lots of small mosaic tiles, in a white/slightly silver finish. No idea how you load a picture up, sorry.

Not sure what they are made of, but seen them in local tile centre and similar in B&Q and not that expensive, so I don't think anything special.

Someone had told me it was better to put the grout in with a tool to keep it neat or it gets really messy.

New to DIY, and tiling, got so many questions!

i know the sort of tiles you mean, prietty sure they are ceramic. what sort of area are you looking at grouting?

Much better to grout over the whole lot with a grout float. Leave to dry a little in the joints and then wash off with a nice tilers sponge.
When its all dry (usually within a few hours) buff up with a soft cloth.
It may be a little messy but its the best and easiest way.

OK, tonight I'm measuring total area to tile, then I'm going to give it a go over the weekend.

I had someone do my kitchen floor with porecelain tiles some time ago, he did a great job, cost me alot (for me anyway) and now I'm determined that I can actually do this.

So, I don't really need to buy a tool to apply the grout, just the basic things are best.

Can i ask what the main tools you would think be best for beginner?

TradeTiler.Ltd Grout Application
Look on that page for grouting float

TradeTiler.Ltd Grout Washing & Cleaning
This page for super hydro sponge (fancy name for tilers sponge) believe me a good sponge is a bonus to grouting.

An old T-Shirt for buffing/polishing tiles when dry and a couple of buckets and you are away

Obviously you dont have to buy from Tiletrader, most tile shops will have what you need but at least you now know what they look like.
Oh and use clean cold water to wash off with not hot.

you will need a clean bucket for mixing, a grout float or squeegee, a sponge for cleaning off and some clean cloths or kitchen roll for polishing off when dry. mix grout to the required consistency, spread grout over tiles working into the joints, leave to dry a bit (approx 20mins) wash over with clean water rinsing the sponge regularly, when completed repeat the rinsing with more clean water. leave to dry and then polish off with cloths/kitchen roll.

you could try an icing bag....lol

Thanks everyone.

I did hear an icing bag is a good idea.
Will let you know if it's a success or if I need to ask my friendly tileman back to repair my attempt!

if you do use said icing bag just make sure you work the grout into the gap as well

Have a read of this as well..it might just help...

sWe's guides


p.s welcome to tilers forums...

Right, have the list (thanks for that).

Last question: New build house - the walls are plasterboard with the usual "builders beige" paint - do I need to apply anything to the wall before the tiling work starts? Or will it adhere to the paint OK?

Do apologise for all the questions!

Claire