Figure 1. Before grouting, spacers must be removed (left) or the grout around them will be weak and discolored. Use a dental pick, utility
knife, or thin margin trowel. Also use the knife or margin trowel to clean out the grout joints (right).
With plenty of fresh grout under the trowel, the author forces the material into the joints. The key
is to apply ample force and work the trowel from several directions, holding it at 15 to 25 degrees.
A successful
grout job starts
with good prep
work, a proper
mix, and an
experienced
hand
by Michael Byrne
Ceramic Tile
Grouting
JLC ??NOVEMBER 1990
There are few contractors who cannot
recall a horror story