Pro Line by Bonded
Call: 1 877 726 6333
Call: 1 877 726 6333
1) What is the best way to maintain grout?
Use a common commercial cleaner or there are also specialty cleaners available at most tile retailers that are designed for tile and grout. Test the cleaner on a small inconspicuous area prior to a full cleaning and follow manufacturers instructions carefully, making sure to rinse the surface with clean water once cleaning is complete.
2) Why is my grout color splotchy and uneven right after it was installed?
Splotchy and uneven grout color is often a result of improper mixing, excessive cleaning, and premature sealing. During the mixing process, be careful not to add too much water. Following the manufacturers directions closely will help to achieve a uniform look. During the initial cleaning, take care to wring out your sponge thoroughly. Excessive amounts of water used during this process and/or residue on the sponge can collect in the grout joints.
3) Why is the grout color darker than the color I chose right after it was installed?
Grout always looks darker when wet so allow the grout to dry completely. While curing, the grout may dry unevenly. Waiting until the grout is fully cured will allow you to determine if the grout is truly discolored or not. In addition to moisture, residues and dirt can also darken grout. Use a mild cleaner to wash the grout, making sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water.
4) Why is the grout color lighter than the color I chose right after it was installed?
Lighter grout color is usually a result of too much water either added during the initial mixing period or used during cleanup. Follow the manufacturers instructions carefully when mixing your grout and use a minimal amount of clean water for clean up.
5) Do I always have to seal grout?
You do not always have to seal your grout, however sealing or staining can further enhance the color and prevent unwanted stains. Be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions and wait for grout to fully cure. Premature sealing can result in grout discoloration.
6) What is efflorescence and how can I reduce this effect?
Efflorescence is the appearance of a white residue on your grout joints and/or concrete. It is typically caused by the dissolution of soluble salts that have been moved to the surface. Often affected by temperature and humidity, the potential for efflorescence is inherent in all cement-based products. It can be cleaned with a mild acid solution, taking care to rinse the surface well after cleaning. Use products specially formulated to reduce the occurrence of efflorescence, such as our line of Brilliance Premium Grouts.
7) What causes grout to crack?
Cracks in your grout are often caused by shrinkage, improper grout choice based on joint width and substrate flexibility/movement. Shrinkage normally occurs when too much water is added during the mixing process. Follow the manufacturers instructions carefully when preparing grout. Always choose either a sanded or nonsanded grout based on joint width. Sanded grouts are appropriate for joints at least 1/8" up to 1/2". Nonsanded grouts should be used when the joint width is less than 1/8".
8) Do I need a special grout for swimming pools?
You may use standard grouts for swimming pools. However, choosing a grout specifically designed for swimming pool use, such as Pro-Line by Bonded® Pool Grout will enhance the overall look of the project. For example, Pool Grout has added whitening compounds designed to elicit a brightening effect.
9) Why are there so many types of products?
Each tile installation may require different setting materials such as new construction, renovation, concrete floors or wood floors, walls or countertops and many more applications requiring specific products to give the installation of tile the best performance possible.
10) What is thinset mortar, dryset mortar or drybond mortar?
Thinset mortar is a blend of cement, very finely graded sand, and a water retention compound that allows the cement to properly hydrate. Tile set by the thinset method is adhered to the substrate with a thin layer of "thinset" cement. The terms thinset cement, thinset mortar, dryset mortar and drybond mortar are synonymous. This type of cement is designed to adhere well in a thin layer typically not greater than 3/16th inch thick. For example, a 3/8" notch trowel will produce a 3/16th inch thick coating after the tiles are pressed in to the cement.
11) When should I consider the use of additives in my mortar/setting materials?
Additives should be considered when the installation occurs in demanding conditions: areas subjected to movement, vibration and thermal shock as well as areas where a substantially stronger bond is required. A variety of additives exist particularly suited for various conditions including freeze-thaw environments, full sun environments that may fade grout or cement coatings, and high traffic areas requiring a faster set time.
12) When will my ceramic tile installation be ready to receive grout?
Most standard thin-set mortars will reach initial cure within 24-48 hours; however certain job conditions could affect the final cure time required. Always refer to and comply with the manufacturers instructions.
13) When installing tile over my newly poured concrete, how long should I wait before installing ceramic tile?
Suggested time is 28 days between concrete pouring and ceramic tile installation. The longer you can wait before tiling, the less stress that will be applied to the tile by the concrete. Also, should the concrete crack, the crack can be treated (with an anti-fracture membrane) before it is tiled. If curling occurs (and it often does), the concrete can be ground before it is tiled. Tiling before the curling occurs can cause undesirable debonding of the tile and lippage between adjoining tiles.
14) Can I set tile and grout at the same time if using Pro-Line Poxy for both applications?
No, each process (setting tile and grouting joints) is separate. The tiles will move around or shift position/alignment if attempted as one process. Tile should always be firm in place before installing any grout (includes both Portland cement grout and epoxy grout).
15) What special tools are required for epoxy grout installations?
It is important to use a green rubber epoxy float. The cushioned floats are not suitable for epoxy installations. You will also need several buckets of clean, cool water, multiple grout sponges and a terry cloth towel. The green rubber float's composition aids in proper placement and finish. Clean water helps to finish and remove excess residue from tile surface. Sponges become unusable after 1 - 2 gallons of epoxy grout installation and a clean, damp terry cloth towel should be used to drag over the tile surface to remove any residual haze.