How to Grout Tile Correctly (Step-by-Step for a Clean, Professional Finish)

Grouting is the final step that transforms a tile installation from a work in progress into a finished floor. Done correctly, it seals the joints, locks the tiles in place, and gives the floor a clean, professional appearance. Done poorly, it leaves haze on tiles, uneven joints, and grout that cracks within months. This guide shows you exactly how to grout tile correctly.

What You'll Need

• Pre-Mixed Tile Grout (5.5 oz) — for smaller jobs and repairs
• Urethane Grout Float (4" x 9") — for applying and pressing grout into joints
• Tile Leveling System — remove clips before grouting
• Two buckets of clean water
• Large sponge
• Clean dry cloth or cheesecloth
• Grout sealer (for after curing)

Before You Start: Preparation

• Ensure the tile adhesive has fully cured — at least 24 hours, ideally longer
• Remove all tile spacers and leveling system clips
• Clean any adhesive residue from tile surfaces and joints
• Make sure all joints are clean and free of debris

How to Grout Tile: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Mix or open the grout.
For pre-mixed grout like Red Devil Pre-Mixed Tile Grout, open the container and stir briefly. For dry grout powder, mix with water to a smooth, peanut butter consistency.

Step 2: Load the grout float.
Scoop grout onto the grout float. Work with manageable amounts — don't overload.

Step 3: Apply grout diagonally.
Hold the float at a 45-degree angle to the tile surface and spread grout diagonally across the joints. This diagonal motion packs grout into the joints more effectively than moving parallel to them. Apply firm, even pressure to fill each joint completely with no voids.

Step 4: Work in sections of 3–4 square feet.
Don't grout the entire floor at once. Work in manageable sections so you can clean up before the grout sets.

Step 5: Remove excess grout from tile surface.
Hold the float nearly perpendicular to the floor and use the edge to scrape excess grout off the tile surface. Work diagonally to avoid dragging grout out of the joints.

Step 6: Sponge clean the tiles.
Dampen a large sponge (wring it well — it should be barely damp, not wet) and wipe the tile surface in circular motions to remove grout residue. Rinse the sponge in clean water frequently. Use one bucket for rinsing the sponge and a second bucket of clean water for the final rinse. Don't press too hard — you don't want to pull grout out of the joints.

Step 7: Allow initial set.
Let the grout set for 15–30 minutes, then do a second light sponge pass to remove any remaining residue.

Step 8: Buff away grout haze.
After 24 hours, buff away any remaining grout haze from tile surfaces with a clean dry cloth or cheesecloth.

Step 9: Cure and seal.
Allow grout to cure for 24–48 hours before foot traffic and 72 hours before getting it wet. Once fully cured, apply a grout sealer.

Key Grouting Tips

• Keep your sponge barely damp — too much water weakens the grout and causes color variation
• Change rinse water frequently — dirty water leaves a film on tiles
• Work diagonally across joints when applying and removing excess grout
• Don't rush the cure time — walking on grout too early causes cracking
• Grout sets faster in warm, dry conditions — work in smaller sections in hot weather

Frequently Asked Questions

How long after tiling can I grout?
Wait at least 24 hours after setting tiles before grouting. The tile adhesive must be fully cured before grout is applied — grouting too early can shift tiles out of position.

What's the difference between sanded and unsanded grout?
Sanded grout contains fine sand and is used for joints wider than 1/8 inch. Unsanded grout is used for joints 1/8 inch or narrower. Using the wrong type causes cracking or shrinkage.

How do I fix grout that dried too fast?
If grout dries before you can clean it off the tile surface, it becomes grout haze. See our guide on how to remove grout haze from tile for the appropriate treatment.

Can I walk on tile after grouting?
Wait at least 24 hours before light foot traffic. Avoid getting the grout wet for 72 hours for full cure.