The trend in flooring is growing more toward hard surface flooring in remodeled or newer homes. With the rise in popularity of Hardwood, Laminate, Stone and Ceramic, comes new unforeseen problems that may arise. One of these problems has to do with Ceramic Tile. Installations of ceramic tile have in past time, been left to the professional installer. With the advent of very popular DIY television channels and "Reality T.V." has come an onslaught of so-called professional designers who tell you that you can do-it-yourself. Don't get me wrong there is nothing wrong with accomplishing a home design project on your own. There is a great deal of satisfaction in implementing an envious design project, all by your self. The problems arise when you are not given adequate information or directions. And one great problem arises when you DIY a ceramic tile floor, or when you are convinced by a family member that they have a friend of a friend that will install your ceramic at a "bargain price". For the past 2 years my clients have been coming to me for direction after the fact. That is, after the ceramic has already been installed and the damage already has been done.
In the course of my daily responsibilities I often have clients call me with a nagging question. "I just had some Ceramic Tile installed and now the grout is loose and crumbling, WHY?"
A Ceramic install seems simple enough. Just adhere the ceramic to the floor, use those spacer thingies to make sure they are evenly space and spread grout in between them. What could be simpler? Oh, but then the problems begin to surface like loose and crumbling grout or tiles that sound hollow and eventually come loose from the floor. Within a few months to a year you find yourself with tile that is just laying there loose and sliding around on the floor and the grout has all but disappeared leaving gaps that collect dirt and every kind of food particle. Not only is this unsightly, but it is also unsanitary. Where did it all go wrong? If you find yourself in this dilemma there is generally one culprit behind your Grout Mess... Someone Forgot to Read and follow the Instructions! For ceramic tile grout there are directions for mixing and directions for application.
I will not go into much depth in this article as to how to install ceramic. I am just addressing the issue of loose and crumbling grout. I have to say this. If you are installing ceramic tile in your home you will expect this type of flooring to last a long time. Some ceramics are durable enough and versatile enough to last for half a century or more, If It Is Installed Correctly. Therefore I will always advise that you get a licensed professional to install your ceramic flooring. Some of my clients have spent a small fortune on good quality ceramic tile but decided to have Cousin Billy or the local Handyman install the expensive floor and now they are at a loss. And I mean that literally. If ceramic tile is not installed correctly, then it becomes virtually impossible to repair. The only option is complete replacement. What a costly mistake that can be. But perhaps it is not as bad as all that.
If your ceramic tile is installed with the proper adhesive or mortar and is solidly stuck to the floor (and by the way there are only certain types of mortar that I would ever use to install with because I know that the tile will adhere properly and last as long as possible). And your only problem is loose and crumbling grout, there is a solution. But first let us discuss the problem. First you have to remove the loose and crumbling grout as well as possible before you attempt to repair and replace it.
As I stated before there are specific instructions for installing grout and one of the most overlooked directions has to do with the mixing process. The grout must be mixed with water only and mixed well, (no lumps) to a very pasty and stiff consistency. How much water you add will depend on the temperature and humidity (this is where experience has great value) but for most applications if you just follow the basic instructions for mixing you will be okay. The most important thing comes after the mixing process. The grout must be allowed to "slack". This is simply a term that means to allow the gout to sit and bond together on a molecular level before you apply it to the flooring. The grout should be allowed to slack for fifteen to thirty minutes depending on humidity. Now the grout is ready for application. Simply follow the instructions on the bag for the application process and you will be fine. After application allow the grout to fully cure before you seal it. Did I forget to mention that the most common grout types need to be sealed? If you are using a sanded grout your grout must be sealed with the proper sealer and only after the grout has fully cured (five to seven days depending on humidity and temperature).
Following the proper procedures for grout installation will save you a world of stress and money in the long run. So if you have any doubts about who or how your expensive floors are being installed, either do it yourself and follow the instructions or keep an eye on the installer and make certain that the grout is allowed to SLACK before it is applied and it will last for years and years to come.
Now that you have that grout problem under control you will probably want or need an area rug or two for comfort and décor. Just visit our web site for an exclusive selection of fine quality wool area rugs at amazing prices. We also have everyday items for your home at our online store. You are welcome to browse around and see if there is something you want or need.
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