How To Mix Grout: 15 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Mix Grout PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle

Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Approved

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  • Choosing the Grout
    • |
  • Mixing the Grout
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
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  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
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This article was co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle. Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 290,077 times.

In addition to being aesthetically appealing, grout keeps materials in place and protects them from damage. Mixing grout is quick and easy, although smaller batches are best so you can apply them before the grout dries. If you haven't thought about which grout to use for your project, spend some time considering your options, as the wrong grout can lead to crumbling, poor protection, or discoloration.

Things You Should Know

  • To mix grout, you'll need an empty bucket, a container of water, a sponge, and a trowel.
  • Adding a polymer grout additive to your grout (if it doesn't already include one) will increase your grout's durability.
  • Before using mixed grout, let it "slake" for 5-10 minutes so it strengthens.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 2:

Choosing the Grout

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  1. Step 1 Use sanded grout for wider grout lines. 1 Use sanded grout for wider grout lines. Sanded grout has been mixed with fine sand, which helps keep it in place across the entire joint instead of shrinking. Choose sanded grout when filling gaps ⅛ inch (3.2 millimeters) or wider.[1]
    • Sanded grout is not ideal for narrow lines, as the sand can take up too much of the width and weaken the structure.[2]
  2. Step 2 Use non-sanded grout for narrow lines. 2 Use non-sanded grout for narrow lines. Non-sanded grout, also called "unsanded" or "wall grout," is typically recommended for lines under ⅛" (3.2 mm) wide, but some prefer to reserve non-sanded grout for lines 1/16" (1.6 mm) or smaller. Non-sanded grout will shrink significantly as it dries, but the more narrow the line, the less noticeable this is.
    • This grout is also stickier and easier to work with than sanded grout, especially on vertical surfaces.[3]
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  3. Step 3 Be cautious when treating polished stone. 3 Be cautious when treating polished stone. If you are applying the grout to polished stone, test sanded grout on an inconspicuous corner first to check for scratching from sand particles. If the stone does end up scratched, use non-sanded grout instead. If the grout joints are considerably larger than ⅛" (3.2 mm) wide, consider epoxy grout instead.
    • Highly reflective polished stone is more likely to be scratched than honed stone, with a matte appearance.
  4. Step 4 Use epoxy grout only for high-risk areas. 4 Use epoxy grout only for high-risk areas. Epoxy grout resists grease, acid, and wear much better than ordinary grout, and can substitute for either sanded or unsanded grout.[4] It provides serious protection for kitchen countertops or other areas with high spill risk, but dries much faster and is much harder to apply than other forms of grout.[5] It also tends to be considerably more expensive. It’s usually only needed in commercial kitchens, such as the ones in restaurants.
    • Epoxy grout can discolor some porous, unglazed, stone materials. Seal the stone first before you apply the epoxy grout.[6]
  5. Step 5 Use caulk to join surfaces at an angle. 5 Use caulk to join surfaces at an angle. Caulk creates a more flexible seal.[7] Use it instead of grout when filling the gap between a wall and a floor, or another joint between two different planes.
    • If you’re concerned about matching throughout, you can also purchase either sanded or unsanded grout caulk, which is a mixture of the two.
  6. Step 6 Choose a color. 6 Choose a color. The safest choice is an unobtrusive grout that matches the material you'll be joining, but you can try for a striking contrast if you're certain you like the look. Because white grout turns dirty yellow or off-white over time, light grey or light brown are generally better options, especially in humid or wet environments. If you do not plan on sealing your grout, a darker grout may be a better option.
    • Dust from black, green, and red grout tends to be more difficult to clean off surrounding materials, so make sure to wipe the excess grout away thoroughly if you choose one of these colors.
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Part 2 Part 2 of 2:

Mixing the Grout

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  1. Step 1 Consider an additive. 1 Consider an additive. A polymer grout additive increases the grout's durability, but read the grout's label first, as it may already contain an additive. If it does not, you may purchase an additive and follow the instructions on its label while mixing, replacing some or all of the water as directed. Otherwise, the process is the same as described below.
  2. Step 2 Follow label instructions for epoxy grout. 2 Follow label instructions for epoxy grout. Epoxy grout products typically consist of two or three components, and the mixing proportions between these vary depending on the brand. For more traditional grout products, the steps below should work, but check the label first in case of unusual instructions.
  3. Step 3 Gather materials. 3 Gather materials. You'll need an empty bucket, a container of water, and a sponge. Find a pointer trowel, margin trowel, or a mixer paddle drill bit to use to mix the grout and apply it. Finally, pull on a pair of gloves.
  4. Step 4 Add the grout powder to the bucket. 4 Add the grout powder to the bucket. Measure out all of the grout powder required for the quantity of grout you’re producing and pour it into the bucket.
  5. Step 5 Add ¾ of the total water needed. 5 Add ¾ of the total water needed. Check the grout label to find out how much water you need for the amount of space you'll be covering. Pour ¾ of the amount of water required in with the grout powder.
    • If you have a large area to cover, consider mixing half the grout at a time, so the grout in the bucket doesn't dry out before you're done.
  6. Step 6 Mix the grout with a trowel. 6 Mix the grout with a trowel. Use your trowel to mix the powder into the water, until you've made a thick paste with no dry lumps. Tilt the bucket toward you slightly, rolling it on its edge as you scrape off any dry grout from the sides.[8]
    • If you have a mixing drill and attached grout paddle, you can use that instead. Stay below 150 rpm to avoid weakening the grout with excess air bubbles.
  7. Step 7 Squeeze in more water with the sponge. 7 Squeeze in more water with the sponge. Add water one squeeze at a time from a sponge, mixing it thoroughly into the grout. Aim for a smooth "peanut butter" consistency, with no lumps.
    • If the grout gets watery, pour in a little bit more powder.
  8. Step 8 Leave the grout alone for 5–10 minutes. 8 Leave the grout alone for 5–10 minutes.[9] Allow the grout to "slake," or strengthen through chemical reactions.[10]
    • Leave your trowel on newspaper or other surface to prevent a mess.
  9. Step 9 Remix and apply. 9 Remix and apply.[11] Briefly mix together the grout again, as it will become slightly stiff during slaking. Use immediately, as most grout sets within 30–60 minutes.
    • If the grout has already hardened, you'll need to discard it and make a new batch. Adding more water after slaking will not be effective.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question Do I have to wait after mixing the grout before applying it? Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Expert Answer Yes, you need to let it sit for a few minutes. You don't want to immediately apply the grout since there's a chemical reaction that needs to occur after you mix it. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 1
  • Question How do I apply the grout after mixing it? Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Expert Answer You need a grout float to apply it. Then, wait 20-30 minutes and wipe it down with a damp, not wet, sponge. Make sure the sponge isn't wet or it can weaken the grout. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
  • Question How long does the grout need to dry before you use the sponge to clean off the excess? Mark Spelman Mark Spelman Construction Professional Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987. Mark Spelman Mark Spelman Construction Professional Expert Answer Wait approximately 5-10 minutes after application before you clean off the excess. Begin by wiping gently while holding the sponge at an angle. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 14
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • Always save some powdered grout in case you need to add more to the mixture later, or in the event that you need to make another batch. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 6
  • When filling narrow or smaller crevices or spaces with grout, you can use less powdered grout for a softer mixture. For larger areas, make the grout firmer by using more of the powdered grout during preparation. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 16
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Do not try to use grout that begins to harden in the bucket or container. It will not set properly. Discard it and mix a new batch. Thanks Helpful 19 Not Helpful 8
  • Do not mix more grout than you can use within 30 minutes. When mixed grout is left in the container for long periods of time, it will harden and will not be usable. Thanks Helpful 19 Not Helpful 10
  • Grout should never have a runny or soupy consistency. If it does, it will not set up properly and will not be secure. It will also crumble easily when dried. Thanks Helpful 17 Not Helpful 12
  • Be sure to wear gloves. Because of the lime that it contains, grout is very abrasive to all skin types. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 3
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Things You'll Need

  • Grout powder
  • Water
  • Trowel
  • Bucket
  • Sponge
  • Mixing drill with grout paddle (optional)
  • Gloves
  • Grout float

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References

  1. ↑ http://floorelf.com/using-the-correct-type-of-grout
  2. ↑ https://www.tcnatile.com/faqs/46-unsanded-grout.html
  3. ↑ http://floorelf.com/using-the-correct-type-of-grout
  4. ↑ http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,384695-2,00.html
  5. ↑ http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,384695-2,00.html
  6. ↑ http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,384695-2,00.html
  7. ↑ http://www.custombuildingproducts.com/support/frequently-asked-questions.aspx
  8. ↑ http://www.familyhandyman.com/tiling/grouting/grouting-tips-and-techniques/view-all
  9. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview
More References (2)
  1. ↑ http://www.familyhandyman.com/tiling/grouting/grouting-tips-and-techniques/view-all
  2. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview

About This Article

Ryaan Tuttle Co-authored by: Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist This article was co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle. Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. This article has been viewed 290,077 times. 5 votes - 100% Co-authors: 10 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 290,077 Categories: Tiling Grout Article SummaryX

To mix grout, start by adding the grout powder to a bucket along with ¾ the total water needed. Next, mix the grout with a trowel until you have a thick paste. Then, squeeze in more water with a sponge, mixing it thoroughly into the grout as you go. Once you get a smooth “peanut butter” consistency, let the grout sit for 5-10 minutes. Since the grout will become a little stiff from sitting, give it one last brief mix and then use it immediately. For more tips from our General Contractor reviewer, including how to pick the right grout, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Gene Ramsbottom

    Gene Ramsbottom

    Oct 10, 2016

    "Memory fades between grouting jobs, so it's a good refresher to be reminded of the job about to be considered...." more
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Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Ryaan Tuttle Co-authored by: Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Co-authors: 10 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 290,077 100% of readers found this article helpful. 5 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote Gene Ramsbottom

Gene Ramsbottom

Oct 10, 2016

"Memory fades between grouting jobs, so it's a good refresher to be reminded of the job about to be considered...." more Steve Palmer

Steve Palmer

Mar 12, 2017

"Easy steps for a layman to understand. We are not all maintenance experts and sometimes the smaller jobs can be..." more Bridget Shaw

Bridget Shaw

Dec 29, 2016

"Thank you. We have never used grout and this video really helped out a lot. It was very well done and explained..." more Isabelle Pien

Isabelle Pien

Mar 17, 2017

"My spouse told me it was hard and complicated work to mix grout, but it's not. Reminds me of my mud pies from..." more Rated this article: Richard Charlesworth

Richard Charlesworth

Aug 7, 2016

"Gave me the necessary information in order to mix a small amount of grout for small hole filling. Thank you." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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