Grouted a tub surround 2 days ago. Saw a space where I missed some today and when I stuck a screw driver into it to prepare, noticed that it was rather easy to get a lot of grout to come out. It would basically crumble out of its space. It appears its like this for most of the tub surround where I did further testing.
I tried a new technique when grouting this surround (used a grout bag) and made the mixture with a tad more water. It was neater although not faster in my opinion. Especially if this is a do over.. .
Anyways, I really concerned that perhaps this mixture of grout is too weak, although I’m not certain whether grout should still be this easy to pull out after two days.
Is this typically of grout after a couple of days and will get stronger or do I need to clear out all this grout and start over?
Tark
Replies
Start over. Sounds like you did not apply the grout well the first time and the second time you used too much water. Also, read the directions to see if a milk/ additive is recommended rather than water when mixing. Some already have the polymer in the grout.
If you use a grout bag, do not drag/ pull the tip across the joint. Push it instead, so you are forcing grout into the joint. I also use my finger to further push more grout in, until it squeezes out of the joint.
Hope this helps.
Frankie
There he goes—one of God's own prototypes—a high powered mutant of some kind never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live and too rare to die.
—Hunter S. Thompson
from Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas
The grout already had the additive in it, so it only required water, although I did not add that much extra. Sounds like I better get started digging..
Tark, I don't know that the grout bag, tho neater, can pack it in like a float. Thin grout lines?A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Is this a situation where you had existing grout? If so did you acid wash any remainder left after the mechanical removal?
Are these by any chance large grout lines (great than 1/4")? If so you should be using sanded rather than sandless grout.
PaulB
Besides what everyone else mentioned, keep in mind that grout needs to be cured. Though it may be different for grout with certain additives, standard grout needs to be kept damp for several days.
happy?
"standard grout needs to be kept damp for several days."
No it doesn't.
what are you suggesting? That the tile setter go back for the full 28 days and lightly mist the job for a full cure?
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
No, only for 3-4 days.
If ignorance is bliss why aren't more people
happy?
yeah ... that'll happen.
what do U do for a real day job?
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
with any cement based product ... water is the enemy.
use as little water as necessary.
dig it out and start again.
Jeff
Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa