Troubleshooting Guide

TB20
CAUSES
Inconsistent grout color is a condition where colored grout dries
to its expected color in some areas, a darker color in other areas,
and varying shades in between. The main cause for this variation
in color is uneven drying of the Portland cement in the grout.
There are job site conditions and factors which create the
conditions for uneven drying and improper cement hydration.
Inconsistent grout color is not considered a manufacturing defect
due to the inconsistent nature of Portland cement. Portland
cement is a natural product, mined from the ground, with inherent
properties which cannot be completely controlled.
Colored grouts, like concrete, are a combination of Portland
cement and an inert aggregate. It is not uncommon for concrete
driveways or sidewalks to show discoloration and inconsistent
color. Like colored grout, this is mainly due to the uneven drying
of the cement. Unlike grout, this is an understood and accepted
fact. Because of grout’s decorative aspect, inconsistent color
creates an unacceptable look to the installation.
PREVENTATIVE CONTROL FACTORS
Evaluation of the job conditions and the materials to be used are
the primary controlling factors that determine the outcome of the
job and help minimize inconsistent grout color.
As in all cases, if proper precautions are taken before a job is
started, many problems that are within the realm of your control
may be prevented, assuring a satisfactory job. The following is a
suggested checklist to produce the best possible results when
grouting a ceramic tile installation:
w Use the same person to mix the grout and maintain the same
mixing technique throughout the job.
w Dry mix the entire grout bag if only one bag is used. Dry mix
bags of grout together if more than one is used.
w Wait at least 24 hours before grouting a dry-set installation,
48 hours for organic (mastic), 72 hours for conventional
mortar bed.
w Maintain uniform width and depth of the grout joints.
w Remove all tile spacers and debris.
w Leave 2/3 of the joint open for grout.
w Plan grouting to not join in conspicuous areas.
w Shade tile work in hot or windy conditions to prevent
rapid drying.
w Mix grout thoroughly by hand or with a low RPM (300 rpm)
power mixer.
w Always mix the grout powder into the liquid.
w Mix grout to a stiff, creamy, paste-like consistency.
w Allow grout to rest (slake) once mixed, then remix.
w Discard grout when it becomes too stiff to work.
w Use the same procedure to grout all areas.
w Use a rubber grout float to remove grout from tile during
installation.
w Allow grout to firm in the joint before any further cleaning.
Porcelain tile will require more time. Grout is firm when it
can only slightly be indented when pressed hard with
your fingernail.
w Use as little water as possible for clean-up. Use a small pore
hydro grout sponge or cheesecloth.
w Change bucket wash water often.
w Buff the tile surface and grout with a cheesecloth or clean, dry
towel within one (1) to two (2) hours to remove all water and
grout residue from the surface of the grout.
w Lightly mist with clean, cool water for 72 hours to ensure slow,
even curing.
If minor shade variations occur, they will disappear over time. In
most cases, shading occurs mainly on the surface of the grout,
and can be removed 7 to 10 days after grout is installed with
TileLab
®
Sulfamic Acid Cleaner. For specific cleaning procedures,
contact CUSTOM
®
Technical Services.
Colored grout is a natural and beautiful companion to any tile
installation. The result of proper application and techniques will
produce a grout installation that is stronger, harder, smoother,
denser and more uniform in color.
REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
ANSI A108.10
NTCA Reference Manual A-21
MMSA Bulletin No. 9
Technical Services 800-282-8786
custombuildingproducts.com
Technical Bulletin
MINIMIZING GROUT SHADING
©2013 6/13R
The information in this bulletin is presented in good faith, but no warranty,
express or implied, is given nor is freedom from any patent in as much as
any assistance furnished by CUSTOM
®
with reference to the safe use and
disposal of its products provided without charge. Custom
®
Building Products
assumes no obligation or liability therefore, except to the extent that any such
assistance shall be given in good faith.