Grouting System for Tile

Function

• Grouting systems for tile help remove excess grout from tile surfaces. Conventional methods of removing grout include using a sponge to wipe grout off newly laid tile, rinsing the sponge clean and then wringing the sponge. Most grouting systems combine a bucket and sponge wringer, special sponges and grates at the bottom of the bucket to assist with grout removal.

Types

• Manual grouting systems come with a sponge-wringing tool attached to a bucket. Some systems come with handles that you can attach to grout removal sponges, which include abrasive and non-abrasive sponges, sponges for use on floors and sponges for removing grout from walls. A grouting system may even include a device that turns a grout removal sponge into a mop so you don't have to bend over to clean the tiles. Also available are electric, walk-behind grouting systems that work well on large areas. The machine has a large sponge attached to the front and a built-in cleaning system.

Benefits

• Grouting systems help you finish tiling jobs significantly faster. The sponge-wringing systems can effectively remove excess water from a sponge so you don't have to do it by hand. Grouting systems that allow you to mop grout off the floor can benefit people who have back or knee problems, and eliminate the need to touch dirty water. Large, walk-behind grouting systems use less water than bucket grouting systems, and clean tile surfaces with just one pass.

Considerations

• If you fail to wring the sponges that come with grouting systems well, the grout will not set properly and will crumble out from between the tiles when dry. To make sure the tiles and grout are dry, you may need to pass a sponge over the tiles after removing the grout to remove excess water. Use dry rags to remove the haze that grout can leave on tiles.