Repair yourself: how to clean the seams on the tile?

In this article we will tell you how to properly clean the seams of tiles. At first glance, this work seems pretty simple. But this is far from the case. You have to be extremely careful. Otherwise, if it is not performed at the proper level, the result can ruin even the most impeccable laying of ceramic tiles or decorative stones. In the way to wipe the seams between the tiles, two tasks should be distinguished. The first is to effectively hide the shortcomings of the material or work, the second is to emphasize the aesthetic properties of the finish.

At the present time, when there is a mass of special means, it is easy to answer the question of how to erase stitches on the tile. The composition of these funds are divided into two groups:

1. Cement-based mixtures
2. Grout, based on epoxy resin.

When choosing a mixture it is very important not to confuse the trowelling with other special substances intended for compaction, for example, based on silicone. This tool is not recommended to use: it does not have attractive aesthetic properties and is not suitable for technical parameters.

Grout on a cement base is a dry powder, which is then diluted with ordinary water or liquid latex. In the construction shops are already ready for use grouts, but the price for them is much higher than the "semi-finished". This kind of material is divided into several other subspecies, depending on the added components.

Materials for grouting joints on the basis of epoxy resin have in their composition, in addition to the same substance, also special hardeners. This product increases the resistance to mechanical damage, as well as to the impact of various chemicals (how to rub the seams on the tiles with this material, we will discuss below). This type of grout, in comparison with cement, is much more expensive, so it is most often used for rooms with high traffic, such as shopping centers, shops, public buildings and so on. Such grouts are also applicable for industrial premises. It is necessary to take into account the fact that epoxy grouts have a high viscosity and very quickly solidify. Therefore, it is necessary to work with them with utmost care and observe certain rules. How to rub the seams on the tiles with similar grouts? This we will now tell.

Before wiping the seams on the tile, wear protective gloves, a respirator and glasses to protect the skin of hands, respiratory tract and eyes. Then use a rubber spatula to lay a little grout on the surface of the tile, and then evenly distribute it with a special grater. The mixture should be applied diagonally, at an angle of 30-40 ° to the surface of the tile. The grater should be used about three to four times, while trying to rub the grout into the seams as deeply as possible. The more densely filled the seams, the better. After that, remove the excess grout, conducting diagonally and holding the grater at a right angle. Wait a bit and start cleaning the ceramic tile or stone using a damp sponge. You can use special tools for washing after laying.

Now you know how to erase the seams on the tile, and you can do this job yourself.