Flooring Tile - tile grout failure
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05-21-01, 09:34 AM
We have tiled our tub surround using 5 X 5 glazed white tile that has a hand-made appearance ("Latina" by Tena). The tiles are 3/8 inch thick and are spaced 1/8 inch apart. For an old-fashioned look that sets off the tile field, we have chosen a pewter- grey grout ( "Polyblend" unsanded). We are using unsanded because the tiles are glazed and we don't want to scratch them with a sanded product. We did a test section that seemed to go fine but the next day noticed cracks in the grout. We scaped it all out and are ready to start over but don't know what went wrong. Any suggestions?
Another question: Is there a tool that is used to smooth the grout?
Last question: We would like to recess the grout a bit (not having it level with the tile face) in order to set it off. Is there any problem with this?
We appreciate all your help! Thanks...Aileen D.
Another question: Is there a tool that is used to smooth the grout?
Last question: We would like to recess the grout a bit (not having it level with the tile face) in order to set it off. Is there any problem with this?
We appreciate all your help! Thanks...Aileen D.
05-21-01, 02:24 PM
It sounds like you've got some shrink cracks forming since the joints were a little big for unsanded grout..1/8 wide is ok..but 3/8 deep may be giving you trouble. Also depending on the adhesive you used...mastic need to be completly dry before you grout, as it shrinks also. I guess you still have some grout in the joints now, so try grouting over it again...they'll be less chance of it cracking again if the joints are already half full. As far as recessing the grout...that's up to you as you wash...but it's better if they're full.
ps What is the substrate for your tile? wood? concrete board? etc...this could make a difference too. Please don't say Particle board!
ps What is the substrate for your tile? wood? concrete board? etc...this could make a difference too. Please don't say Particle board!
John Bridge
05-21-01, 03:11 PM
I have used the Tena tiles. Pricey little things, aren't they? I chose sanded grout because of the joint width and depth. If you go again with the unsanded as Adanac suggests, I would do it over a small area that can be easily removed. It's possible that it will crack again.
Or, go with the sanded grout. It won't scratch the surface of the tiles -- the glaze is hard enough. See our installation of the Tena tiles at the following site.
http://www.johnbridge.com/project_photos.htm
Or, go with the sanded grout. It won't scratch the surface of the tiles -- the glaze is hard enough. See our installation of the Tena tiles at the following site.
http://www.johnbridge.com/project_photos.htm