Grout for Outdoor Tiles – 10 Easy Steps to Fill the Joints

Once you are done collecting all the tools and materials, it’s time to check the outdoor tiles’ grout process.

1. Cleaning

   Cleaning is the first and foremost step while grouting your outdoor tiles. Using a utility knife clean the gaps between the tiles, so there won’t be any thin-set mortar left. You should remove the thin-set because it is of different colour and will show if not removed. So, you must clean the tiles before grouting.

2. Caulking

   Use commercial silicone caulk or another flexible outdoor sealer created for this application to fill the grout joints. With your finger, smooth the caulked joints to resemble filled grout lines. Let the caulk settle and cure overnight. Caulking is an essential step in installing porcelain tiles or natural stone.

3. Mixing

   Grout for outdoor tiles is of different types. Some use pre-mixed grout, and some prefer cement-based grout. So, if you use cement-based grout, mix it with water and liquid additives in a bucket. Mix the grout well so it can be filled in between the tiles. Once you’ve filled the grout, let it settle for a few minutes. However, the process is pretty simple if you use pre-mixed grout. Just open the grout box and start filling in the gaps.

4. Filing the Grout Joints

   Always start small. Start with a small area, say 3×3 or 4×4 feet at a time. Use a grout float to scoop up some grout and apply it to the tile’s surface. Spreading the grout uniformly over the tile faces and grout joints requires holding the float at a 45-degree angle to the tile surfaces and moving it diagonally across the joints. Make several passes with the float in various diagonal directions to press the grout firmly into the joints.

5. Sweep Away Excess Grout

   Repeating the process as it was in the previous step, but it will be a bit different this time. Hold the float at a 90-degree angle to the tile, move diagonally and remove excess grout from the surface.

6. Cleaning the Tiles

   If you are using cement-based or pre-mixed grout for outdoor tiles, it is recommended to clean the surface. Don’t wet the surface. Just moist it to clean the surface and smooth the joints. Make sure you do not remove the grout. If you are not confident enough to clean the surface, take help from a professional.

7. Repeat the Process

   Once you are done grouting in a small area, repeat the complete process for the rest of the surface.

8. Again, Clean the Surface

   Cleaning the porcelain tiles or any other tiles is easy. You just need a damp cloth and start cleaning the surface. After you’ve filled the joints in the remaining areas, you should again clean the entire surface with a damp sponge.

9. Polish the Tiles

   Allow the grout to dry as instructed, and then use a microfiber cloth to buff the tile surfaces to eliminate the grout haze. Remember that the grout joints don’t need to be polished. Just buff the tile surface for a shiny and smooth surface.

10. Sealing

    It must be sealed if you use cement-based grout for outdoor tiles. You can use any grout sealer to seal the joints. Whether you are using a paver sealant or grout sealer, you should always deal in quality products.