What grout for tiles. Fugue for tiles: the necessary tools and methods of applying to the seams

Bathrooms are different high humidity, so the most practical cladding for them is a moisture-resistant tile surface. Despite the visual appeal, ceramic tiles on the walls, on the floor will not look perfect without special processing of the seams. putty tile joints the bathroom performs a protective function, protecting the cladding.

The most important qualities and main functions of the grout (fugue):

• antifungal protection of the bathroom, prevention of mold;
• colored putty gives a finished look to the interior, decorating the bathroom;
• creation of reliable waterproofing facing surface using grout for bathroom tiles ensures its integrity for a long time.

The quality of the repair depends on the choice of a fugue for a room with high humidity. When buying grout for tiles in the bathroom, you need to focus on such important qualities as:

• strength, resistance to high humidity;
• shrinkage of the fugue after drying;
• degree of moisture absorption;
• adhesion.

Comprehensive information will help you choose the right putty for joints, including the recommendations of such a well-known manufacturer as, for example, Ceresit.

Types of grout for joints, their advantages and disadvantages, features and differences

There are four types of these mixtures:

1. Classic grouts on cement base.
2. Cement fugues with the addition of active components and fillers.
3. Epoxy-cement mixtures.
4. Epoxy grouts.

Fugues

These are the simplest fugues. When dissolved in a certain volume of water, an elastic putty is obtained, which is easy to apply to work surfaces with a rubber spatula. This type of grout for the bath is divided into two subspecies, depending on the width of the joints to be filled. If the seams between the tiles exceed 5 millimeters, then they need to be filled with mixtures with sand, which binds the liquid composition and prevents it from spreading and cracking.

Classic fugues can be selected in two versions: 1) dry powder; 2) ready solution. The second option is more convenient, but not very practical. After opening the sealed container, it must be completely used before drying begins. The choice of the first option allows you to use any amount of loose mixture, which makes it convenient to use it for minor repairs. Which fugue to choose depends on the current tasks, as well as on the repair conditions.

Cement grout for bathroom tiles has its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

• universality;
• ease and simplicity in work;
• strength;
• moderate price;
• big choice colors.

Disadvantages:

• susceptibility to the destructive action of chemicals;
• low resistance to pollution.

Blends with fillers

This is an improved version of cement grout: the properties of the cement-based fugue are enhanced with the help of additional components. Such grouts are characterized by increased resistance to temperature and humidity, so they are perfect for showers, bathtubs, kitchens. The choice of such a reveal can be limited to the proven version of Ceresit CE 40 aquastatic.

Mixed grouts

Such grouts contain, in addition to cement, mineral fillers and epoxy resins. This significantly increases the resistance of the seams to various chemicals. Suitable for working with clinker and glazed tiles, glass and mosaics. Such fugues are used in hospitals and even swimming pools. They are more difficult to work with than cement mixtures, since such activities require more accuracy and speed. Fuga Epoxi 710, Ceresit CE 44 is a good proven choice.

Epoxy

Epoxy Options- the best grout for tiles in the bathroom. They provide resistance to any chemical and mechanical influences for decades. These fugues are distinguished by their versatility, durability and beauty. The choice of such a putty is always justified when used in conditions of high humidity, steam, contact with aggressive chemicals.

Epoxy grout for bathroom tiles is a two part substance; the working mixture is obtained in the process of thorough mixing of these components. It is a viscous consistency that requires care, patience and attention when filling the joints between tiles.

Modern technologies allow you to decorate epoxy grout with unusual shiny components that improve the beauty, decorativeness of everything tiled flooring. At the same time, such a grout for tiles in the bathroom has two obvious drawbacks: the high cost and the complexity of working with it.

Given the high cost, it is recommended to focus on the choice of fugues well-known manufacturers. Ceresit offers different variants for repairing rooms with high humidity: Ceresit CE 48 is most suitable for grouting floor joints, Ceresit CE 47 for wall processing.

The secrets of choosing the right fugue color for bathrooms

When choosing a grout for tiles in the bathroom, it is important to choose the right color for it. Classic cement fugues allow you to get any shade with the help of pigments. If necessary, you can choose the right color option, adding coloring gouache to white grout mixture. IN epoxy grouts the color is determined by the filler. Which fugue to choose depends on the type of ceramic tile itself. Such grouts are even transparent, which is especially valuable when working with glass tiles and mosaic.

When choosing a color, it is important to pay attention to the following points:

1. In order to highlight each tile, you need to choose a grout of a darker color.
2. In cases of more light shades Fugues compared to tiles are all visually perceived as a uniform background.
3. For transparent tiles, a colorless fugue from Ceresit is excellent.
4. If tiles are used for cladding small sizes, it is better to try to achieve a contrast between the tiles and the seams.
5. When puttying the joints on the walls, you can choose a neutral option - white.

If you can choose suitable color correctly, the putty serves as a kind of "frame" for the tiles, emphasizing the aesthetic qualities of the tiled material itself. It is recommended to test the grout on a single tile before use: apply to the surface, allow to dry and compare the color match.

At the time of purchase, it is important to choose a fugue from the same batch, as this greatly increases the likelihood of a color match. You also need to pay attention to what coatings it is intended for. Quality mixes are versatile. When choosing a grout for tiles in bathrooms, it is important to give preference to trusted manufacturers, for example, well-known company Ceresit, which has entered almost every home for a hundred years on the market.

The bathroom renovation is coming to an end. laid down tile, we admire the results and see that there is one more finishing operation left - grouting. This is where the question arises, which grout to choose.

Grout quality

A tile is aesthetically pleasing, reliable and durable, but on condition that the work is completed and the joints are grouted. Why is it important:

• Grout prevents water from getting under the tile;
• The surface is finished.

Poor waterproofing will subsequently lead to the destruction of the adhesive layer and the falling off of the tile. From this it follows that the grout is a responsible finishing element.

For correct and conscious choice material, you need to know its properties. Here are the most important ones:

Bathroom tile grout ready-made

• The degree of shrinkage after drying;
• Water resistance;
• Moisture absorption;
• Degree of adhesion;
• Strength.

Competent selection of materials will ensure the aesthetics and durability of the results of the labor and time spent.

Varieties of grouting material

To navigate this issue, let's figure out what grouts are and how they differ. There are three groups of materials:

1. Based on cement.
2. Epoxy grouts.
3. Furan.

cement grout

This species is in high demand. They are made on the basis of Portland cement with various additives.

With a joint width of more than 5 mm, a grout with the addition of sand is used. Work requires accuracy, because when in contact with the front surface of the tile, grains of sand leave scratches and scuffs.

For elasticity, a plasticizer is added to the composition during dilution. It improves water repellency grout and prevents the penetration of bacteria and fungus under the tile.

Bathroom cement grout

Epoxy grout

At the heart of these grouts, as the name of the group suggests, is epoxy resin. In addition to it, the composition contains pigments and other components that give color and hardness. This type has many advantages:

• Moisture resistant;
• Density of seams between tiles;
• Not afraid of exposure to chemicals.

Now in stores building materials you can purchase grouts with various external effects, for example, metallic sheen, golden hue, mother-of-pearl.

A distinctive feature of these grouts is their increased viscosity. Because of this, they are more difficult to apply than cement. In addition, it will be possible to clean the front surface of the tile from it in case of accidental contact only with the use of chemicals. This grout is applied using a special bag, similar to a pastry bag for squeezing cream.

If you do not have at least minimal experience with such materials, then it is better to start with a professional.

The third type, furan mixtures in apartments is rarely used because of the dark color. They are mainly used in industrial premises.

Colored grout for joints between tiles

Multi-colored grout

Conventional white grouts are rarely used today. Diversity colors allows you to purchase grout desired color. Correct selection mixture will make the interior of the bathroom harmonious and complete. As a rule, the seams are rubbed in a color close to the color of the tile, but can also be contrasting. If the mixture is selected “to match”, then it makes sense to go to the store with a tile sample.

Relatively recently, a colorless grout made on the basis of glass has appeared. Best effect achieved when used in combination with polychrome tiles. A stunning view will be if you process the seams in a mosaic panel with such a grout.

The choice of color is limited only by imagination, but a few tips will not hurt:

• If the task is to highlight each tile, then the composition is used darker than the tile itself;
• To create a single space, grout is selected a tone lighter;
• If the tile is medium-sized, then it is better to use contrasting colors;
• White grout is a universal option.

Well, when creating beauty, we must remember that the main purpose of the grout is, after all, moisture insulation.

How to make the right choice

Use of grout

Grouting is a critical process that completes the laying of tiles. Unsightly seams can disfigure even the most expensive tiles. Grout transforms appearance bathroom and prevents the penetration of moisture, the reproduction of fungi and the formation of mold.

Based on all this, and selected grout in the shop. Cheap mixtures, as a rule, do not provide sufficient protection for the joints, therefore, when purchasing inexpensive grout, you must add antifungal, dirt-repellent additives and sealant yourself.

When buying a grout, pay attention to what coatings it is intended for. Most expensive grouts are produced universal, designed for processing joints between ceramic tiles, mosaic, concrete tiles or porcelain stoneware.

Trade includes materials from Russian and foreign manufacturers. Among them are the following brands:

• "Ceresite". German manufacturer building mixtures with over 100 years of history.
• "Atlas".
• "Mapey". Italian manufacturer, which produces mixtures for domestic and industrial use.
• "Sopro". German grouts are also of high quality.

It is easy to get confused in a variety of brands and manufacturers, so the choice must be made based on the popularity and demand for a particular grout. In this matter, it will not be superfluous to consult a professional

Sealing process

The choice is made, the grout is purchased, we get to work. Processing seams is not difficult, but it takes time, patience and accuracy. The process consists of the following steps:

1. Surface preparation.
2. Grout preparation.
3. Seam filling.
4. The final stage.

Before use finishing material the surface must be prepared. First, make sure that the glue is dry and the tile is securely held. Then we remove the dust, the remnants of glue from the seams. If old seams are processed, then they must be carefully cleaned. Cement compositions will have to be removed special solutions acid based. After soaking, we clean it with a stiff brush. Then rinse and let dry.

Usually grout is sold in stores in the form of dry mixes, which must be prepared at home before use, following the manufacturer's instructions.

After preparing the composition, we proceed to the processing of seams. You can do this with a spatula. Don't be in a hurry. It is necessary that the mixture fills the seams. In some places you will have to go through again.

Excess grout must be removed immediately. This is done with the same spatula and wiped with a damp cloth. The appearance of the bathroom will depend on the quality of the application of the composition.

After neat work with high-quality grout, even inexpensive tiles will look just gorgeous.

You can tile the bathroom as skillfully as you like, but approach it irresponsibly finishing touches- All work will go down the drain. At first glance (and many professional tilers think so), jointing is much easier than facing, but this is not true. In order not to “finish for peace”, you need to understand what kind of grout for tiles in the bathroom is, how to carry out the process that accompanies the end of work.

Grouting is necessary in all cases, except for one: if the room is lined with rectified tiles that allow seamless laying. Plain tile needs to be filled for two reasons:

• The putty prevents the penetration of destructive liquid, dirt, foreign objects, and insects onto the base between the plates.
• From an aesthetic point of view monolithic construction much more attractive than with gaping interplate gaps.

But you probably already guess about this, and you are much more concerned about the choice of material. What does the market offer?

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Types of grouts

Despite the abundance of manufacturers and a number of nuances that distinguish materials, there are only three types of putties:

• Cement;
• Epoxy;
• Silicone.

Cement

This type is the most popular due to its low cost and relative ease of use. It is made on the basis of cement with the addition of some components. Will the best choice in the face of a budget deficit and the absence of increased claims to the quality of the final work. Do not use it if the width of the seams exceeds 5 millimeters.

Shelves construction stores full of products from various companies. Which one to choose? The greatest demand among buyers (often tilers) is used by Atlas grout, and Plitonit 3, they are located in the mid-price segment. The products of European factories, for example, Schtern or Mapei are more expensive, but the quality of the putty is much higher.

The main thing when buying is not to run into a fake. Popular manufacturers are often faked, so buy materials only from trusted stores.

No need to save on this material, the appearance of your interior depends on it. Many do not skimp on expensive tiles, but spare money for the puffer. This is a paradox, since it will not even lose its qualities even after a dozen years, while a low-grade fugue can fade and even mold after just six months (see).

It is better to use grouts for joints, which include water-repellent components. They are somewhat more difficult to apply, but the return on them is higher. In addition, it is desirable to dilute some mixtures not with water, but with a latex plasticizer, which increases the resistance of the material to liquids. These are the basic principles, however, each manufacturer and a certain product has its own “secrets” for preparing the solution, which are described on the packaging.

To choose the right material, consider one more thing. The applied and already hardened grout often differs in tone from the one shown on the package and diluted with water / plasticizer. Moreover, the difference is cardinal, which sharply negatively affects the aesthetics of the overall composition. Therefore, it would be useful to carefully "interrogate" the seller, and even better to try the putty in the case on small area. If the color of the hardened mass suits, you can safely continue.

Video about choosing a grout color:

To improve the properties of cement grout, it is recommended to impregnate the joints with special protective equipment. Among them are:

• Water repellent. Provides a surface protective layer that is easily damaged by rough physical impact.
• Polymer varnish. It stands on a step above the previous impregnation. It penetrates deep into the seams, creating a reliable barrier to moisture. It prevents water from soaking into the putty, forcing the liquid to collect in drops.

It is also worth noting here that there are compounds that make the grout glossy. If this item is important to you, don't forget about it.

jointing technology

Having decided on the choice, proceed directly to the process. There are quite a few application technologies, each master has little secrets. Someone uses an ordinary metal spatula, someone cannot do without a syringe (although this "exotic" is more often used when using silicone grout or filling wide seams), but the most popular profile tool is rubber spatula and a metal grater with a rubberized nozzle. Grater work faster, as it has a large area.

Before filling the seams, you need to prepare them for this. Make sure they are thoroughly cleaned of adhesive or cement mortar. Pay close attention to the edges of the tile, where problems are most often hidden. They must be absolutely clean, even a small stubborn dirt will definitely show itself in the process of work. Cement-sand mortar previously removed on the day of facing, and the remains adhesive mixture can be removed after a few days. Even if the seams are completely free of dirt, you should go over them with a damp sponge to enhance adhesion.

The grouting process itself (and we have already diluted the mixture according to the instructions, it should be a little thicker than sour cream) consists in applying the material to the edge of the spatula and diagonally moving the latter along the seams.

At the end of work, within 5-6 hours, wipe the seams 3-4 times with a damp sponge. This will allow the grout to set naturally, without reacting to temperature and air masses.

The whole process is shown in the video:

Rules and technology for applying impregnation

First, make sure you comply temperature regime, the room should be within + 5-30 degrees. As in the case of the putty itself, it is advisable to test the impregnation on small plot to make sure there are no tonal changes.

Seam impregnation with Atlas Delfin.

The composition is applied with a brush strictly at the seams. If the mixture gets on the tile, it is fraught with some damage to the latter, so glue the edges of the tile masking tape. The material should be applied twice, since the first time does not entail the formation of a protective layer, the impregnation only, to one degree or another, penetrates deep into the putty. But the second time contributes to the performance of the material of its functions. The interval between processing phases should be at least a day.

Epoxy

We have paid a lot of attention to cement mixtures due to their prevalence, but if you want real quality, you need to choose. Made on the basis of resins, hardeners and dyes, it can last from fifty years without loss of quality. The seams have completely different properties: they become dense, non-reactive to active chemicals, water-repellent.

Epoxy putty for joints is very viscous and more harmful, so its use should be entrusted to professionals. And for tilers, its use is a difficult test. The fugue is two-component (resin and filler), and the components should be mixed strictly according to the instructions to the nearest gram. Apply the mixture with the same spatula in similar movements. Process no more than a square at a time, the mixture should not be in working condition for more than 30-40 minutes. The remains are washed off with a sponge, and no later than 10 hours later, the tiles must be treated with a special agent to avoid streaks.

Additional points:

• "Epoxy" is more grainy than cement fugue, which makes it difficult to work with and may not please everyone.
• It is desirable to work with products of Italian and German manufacturers( , Sopro).

Silicone

This class does not apply directly to grouts. Silicone is used as a reliable barrier to moisture in those places where it is critical. For application, a special syringe or gun is used.

We dare to hope that now grout for tiles in the bathroom will become much less time consuming for you, and it will become easier to choose a grout for joints (which one is up to you). comments powered by HyperComments

final stage tile work is seam jointing. The seams need to be rubbed with special mixtures and this must be done according to technology.

How to joint a tile, we will reveal in the article.

What are the seams for?

• The seams are protected from moisture and dirt getting into them, the grout prevents the appearance of mold and fungus in the space between the seams.
• The seams help mask the defects in the cladding. Within one batch, tiles can have a difference in size up to 3-5 mm. Seams of sufficient thickness mask the difference in the size of the tiles.
• A monolithic cladding is created. Grout mixture to glue adjacent tiles together.
• decorative feature. Seams of the same thickness look nice and neat, and the wide range of colors of grout mixtures helps to achieve interesting results. Often the grout is matched to the color of the tile, but contrasting options always look interesting.

What tools are needed

An auxiliary tool is required for jointing joints in tiles.

• Container for stirring grout.
• Drill with a nozzle for stirring. The mixture should be homogeneous and without lumps.
• Rubber spatula. A rubber spatula is used for jointing. It is plastic, will not scratch the glaze on the tile.
• Rubber trowel: for large volumes, it is better to use a grater to distribute the grout mixture immediately over a large area.
• Sponge, clean rag.

And you will need the grout itself.

Choosing a grout mixture

There are fugues for tiles of two types:

1. cement based;
2. epoxy based.

Fugues containing Portland cement

A popular and frequently used option are cement-based grouts. They are sold as dry powders in small packages. After they need to be diluted with water to an elastic and thick consistency.

Advantages cement grouts in the following:

• strength and resistance to abrasion, such a fugue for tiles will be durable;
• an extensive range of colors: the fugue can have all kinds of colors and shades, which allows you to implement the most interesting and original ideas;
• the plasticity of the fugue makes it easy to apply it into the space between the tiles, it is easy to work with such a grout, it is easy to dilute it with plain water.

Grout of this kind is suitable for joints up to 5 mm thick. If you plan joints thicker than 5 mm, buy fugues containing quartz sand.

But the following must be taken into account:

1. quartz sand makes the puffer grainy and less plastic;
2. the color gamut narrows, the grout will be white or gray;
3. quartz sand in the composition can scratch the glaze of the tile.

Finished grouts

In small buckets you can buy ready mixes for grouting tile joints. The cost of such products will be high, but the mixture will be of high quality, homogeneous and without lumps.



The consumption of such materials will be low.

Fugues based on epoxy resins

The fugue consists of epoxy resin and hardener. The mixture is suitable for grouting tile joints from 6 mm and thicker. It is recommended to use epoxy grout for rooms with intensive passability, for pools and saunas.

The finished mixture has a viscous consistency and a short working life. The grout sets and hardens quickly, so it needs to be worked on quickly.

Work in a respirator, because such products contain harmful components with a specific odor.

Knead the puffer in batches so that you do not have to throw out the leftovers that you did not have time to work out.

This product pleases with a durability of 50 years, but also with a high price.

Deciding on a color

Rich color range grouting materials allows you to experiment.

• Floor tiles are exposed to constant impact, friction, dust and dirt get on it. The fugue must withstand all this impact. For floor coverings use gray grout.
• White seams - classic version, which will suit any cladding and fit into the interior of any style.
• In the color of the tiles. Traditionally, for tiles on the wall, a fugue is taken a few tones lighter than ceramics.
• Contrasting options can make the desired accent and enrich the lining. Please note: dark seams on light-colored ceramics will show any defect and error made during installation.
• Classic color combinations. There is a place for discreet experiments, but everything should be tasteful. The combination of white and yellow, red and blue are some of the possible options.
• Small rooms are not suitable for experiments, better fit seasoned classics - white seams or joints in the color of ceramics.

jointing technology

1. preparation of the workplace and surface;
2. applying the solution;
3. smoothing seams, removing excess grout.

Training

Make sure you have everything you need: grout, tools, accessories. You have already decided on the color and type of mixture.



Remove the tile crosses before starting jointing. The crosses are removed with pliers or a screwdriver.

If the cross cannot be removed, use a paint knife to cut it off as much as possible. You should also embroider the seams, and remove the remnants of dried tile adhesive. If this is not done, there will be black spots in the seams, which will affect the attractiveness of the cladding.

To avoid problems with the seams, when laying the tiles, make sure that glue does not get into the seams. Do not apply too much solution to back side tiles, immediately remove the excess.

TO preparatory work involves mixing the solution. If volumes are small, use a small container. Gradually pour the puffer into the water, mix slowly until a mixture of thick consistency is obtained.

If the volume of work is large, you can knead the puffer in a bucket using a mixer or a drill with a nozzle.

Keep in mind that the grout has a short period of work and sets quickly. So stir in portions, for the whole package at once.

Fugue application

How to joint a tile correctly? A rubber spatula is used to apply the puffer into the seams. With movements across the seam, you fill the gap between the tiles. You need to press a little to fill the seams well.



Excess fugue must be removed immediately from the tile with a wet cloth or sponge. Once grout dries, it is difficult to remove.

For large volumes, a rubber spatula is used, with which the grout is distributed over the seams.

Seam smoothing

While the grout is still not completely dry, you need to remove excess from the tile joints and give the joints the same look.

Wet the fiber sponge and gently rinse the seams with a damp sponge. So you remove excess grout and smooth out bumps. Soak the sponge in water periodically.



Outcome

Jointing tile joints is not an easy task. By applying the tips from the article, you can achieve good results. Before grouting all the seams, you can practice in an inconspicuous place to “fill your hand”.