The Ultimate Guide to Grout in a Tube

If you‘re about to embark on a small tiling project like a kitchen backsplash or bathroom remodel, using grout in a tube can save you time and hassle compared to mixing up traditional grout. The global tile and grout market is projected to reach $77.9 billion by 2027, and tube grout offers a convenient option for small-scale jobs. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about grout in a tube.

An Easy Solution for Small Tile Jobs

Grout in a tube, also called premixed or ready-to-use grout, is best suited for tiling projects under 5 sq ft. Here are some examples of jobs where tube grout really shines:

• Kitchen backsplashes – A narrow area behind a sink or stove is ideal for tube grout. Squeeze out just what you need for each row of tiles.

• Bathroom accent walls – Use colorful grout to make a tiled bathtub or shower surround really pop.

• Bathroom floors – For a small bathroom floor under 30 sq ft, tube grout works great.

• Laundry room backsplashes – Protect the wall behind utility sinks from splashes.

• Fireplace surrounds – Tube grout handles intricate tile patterns with ease.

• Range hood backsplashes – Give your cooking area an easy makeover.

• Kitchen and bathroom countertops – Use tile to customize your counters on a budget.

• Outdoor kitchens – hold up to weather with proper sealing.

A Look at Different Types of Tube Grout

Tube grout comes in a few different varieties to suit different types of tiles and applications:

Sanded vs. Unsanded

Sanded grout contains fine sand particles and is best for tiles spaced 1/8" or more apart. The sand fills wider joints.

Unsanded grout has a smooth, fine texture for narrow grout lines under 1/8". It resists cracking and shrinking.

Match your grout to the tile joints for optimal performance.

Epoxy Grout

Epoxy grouts contain epoxy resins making them highly durable, stain resistant, and waterproof. They are more challenging to work with but provide unbeatable performance.

Silicone Sealant

100% silicone offers maximum flexibility and adhesion for areas prone to vibration or movement like showers. Not ideal for heavy staining.

Cement-Based Grout

Cement grouts closely mimic the durability and performance of traditional site-mixed grout. Low cost but more prone to staining.

The Step-by-Step Process for Flawless Results

Using tube grout is meant to be easy, but good technique is still required for professional-looking joints. Follow these steps:

Ensure Tiles are Securely Set

Give adhesive at least 24 hours to fully cure before grouting. Any shifting tiles will crack grout.

[Photo of tile adhesive drying]

Grouting over weak adhesive can cause issues like cracking later on. Be patient and allow adhesive to fully harden before grouting.

Remove All Tile Spacers

Make sure no spacers are left between tiles before grouting. Grout will not fully reach corners if spacers remain.

[Photo of tile spacers in joints]

Comb through joints with a utility knife to dislodge any overlooked spacers. Leaving them in place weakens grout.

Clean Joints Thoroughly

Use a grout saw or old toothbrush to scrape out all debris, dirt, dust and adhesive residue from tile joints.

[Photo of cleaning joints with toothbrush]

Missed dust will get trapped, creating air pockets and weak spots in the grout.

Dampen Porous Tiles

If tiles are very porous, lightly dampen the surface with water first. This prevents the tiles from sucking moisture out of the fresh grout too quickly.

[Photo spraying water on tiles]

Unglazed tiles and natural stone are especially prone to absorption and need dampening beforehand.

Cut Nozzle to Joint Width

Cut the grout tube nozzle to around the same width as the tile joints for smooth, effortless filling.

[Photo of cutting nozzle]

A 1/8" to 1/4" opening is optimal. Avoid an oversized nozzle that makes precision difficult.

Load Tube into Caulk Gun

Make sure the tube nozzle tip aligns cleanly with the caulk gun nozzle so grout flows smoothly.

[Photo properly loaded caulk gun]

Any misalignment can cause splattering and make application messy and difficult to control.

Fill Joints Completely

Hold tube at 45 degree angle. Fill joints fully in one smooth pass without gaps or air pockets.

[Gif of filling joints]

Don‘t skimp on grout – packed joints are stronger and more water resistant.

Tool and Shape Joints

Once grout loses its sheen, smooth with a rubber grout float or plastic spreader. Remove any excess.

[Gif showing shaping of joints]

Proper tooling eliminates high spots for a perfectly flush finish.

Clean Off Excess Grout

Wipe a damp sponge diagonally across tiles to remove excess grout. Rinse sponge frequently.

[Gif wiping tiles with sponge]

Letting excess grout dry on the tile face can lead to a hazy finish.

Allow Proper Curing Time

Here‘s what to know about letting your grout dry and cure:

• Allow 24-48 hours for tube grout to fully cure before exposure to water.

• Curing times vary based on temperature, humidity and ventilation.

• Avoid walking on tiles until grout has hardened completely, usually 24 hours for light foot traffic.

• 7 days or longer may be needed for grout to reach maximum hardness and durability.

Be patient – resisting the urge to speed up drying protects your work.

Grout Haze Happens – Here‘s How to Avoid It

Grout haze is a thin film that forms on tile when excess grout isn‘t cleaned off promptly. Here are some tips for avoiding haze:

• Always wipe diagonally across tiles, not in circular motions.

• Change rinse water frequently to prevent haze-causing buildup.

• Use a damp, not soaked, sponge to avoid thinning grout while cleaning.

• Consider using a grout release agent prior to grouting.

• Check for haze under lighting from all angles to ensure tiles are completely clean.

With proper cleaning technique, your tiles will have a flawlessly clean finish.

Tube Grout vs Traditional Grout

There are some key factors to consider when weighing tube grout against traditional site-mixed grout:

Tube Grout

• Convenient and easy to use
• No mixing required
• Available in limited colors
• Better for small jobs
• Lower cost for small projects
• Reduced risk of mixing errors
• Presealed for water resistance
• Less customizable properties

Traditional Grout

• Mix on-site for precise consistency
• Wider range of colors
• Better for large jobs
• Higher strength and durability
• Lower cost for large projects
• Can customize mix as needed
• Not presealed against stains
• More versatile and workable

Neither is necessarily "better" – choose based on your specific project‘s size and needs.

Getting the Smoothest Possible Finish

For the most flawless finish:

• Maintain consistent pressure while squeezing grout into joints

• Work in small sections so grout stays workable

• Keep your motions smooth and steady

• Use the least amount of water possible when sponging

• Avoid overworking the joints when tooling

Take your time and focus on consistency for professional-looking results.

Tips for Removing and Re-Grouting with Tube Grout

If you need to remove old grout before applying new tube grout:

• Use a grout saw, rotary tool, or oscillating tool to scrape out old grout. Take care not to scratch tiles.

• Be sure to remove all traces of old grout so new grout adheres properly.

• Vacuum dust and debris once complete.

• Apply new tube grout in small sections for easiest application.

• Expect the process to take longer than grouting a new installation.

Re-grouting with tube grout is achievable with some time and elbow grease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tube grout on natural stone tile?

Tube grout can generally be used with natural stone, but always check manufacturer guidelines. Softer stones may require unsanded grout.

How long does tube grout last compared to traditional grout?

Tube grout offers good longevity, though traditional grout is considered more durable long-term. Proper sealing is key for lasting performance either way.

Should I seal my grout after applying tube grout?

Yes, sealing is still recommended after installation for maximum stain protection, though many tube grouts contain water-repellents.

Can I use tube grout for floor tiles?

Tube grout can work for small floor jobs under 30 sq ft. For larger projects or high-traffic floors, traditional grout is better suited.

What‘s the easiest way to apply tube grout in corners?

Use a small flexible spreader or an old toothbrush to work grout thoroughly into inside corners. Take care not to leave voids or gaps.

Brand Comparison – Not All Tube Grouts Are Equal

Popular tube grout brands include:

Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA

• Industry leader in premixed grouts
• Wide range of colors
• Smooth, easy application
• 20+ year durability

Laticrete Permacolor Grout

• Excellent stain resistance
• Choice of sanded or unsanded
• Consistent, factory-blended mix
• Can be difficult to tool smoothly

Custom Polyblend Sanded Grout

• Budget-friendly option
• Good color consistency
• Prone to drying out in tube
• Can be difficult to fully clean off tile

Aqua Mix Grout in a Tube

• Specialized no-mix formulas
• Good for temperature extremes
• Limited color selection
• Shorter shelf life after opening

Signs It‘s Time to Re-Grout

Here are indications your grout needs replacing:

• Cracks wider than 1/16"
• Powdery or crumbling joints
• Hollow or popped grout
• Staining despite attempts to clean
• Grout turning a different color
• Visible moisture damage
• Grout lines wider than they should be

Re-grouting restores the look and prevents further tile damage.

Achieving a Smooth Finish on Uneven Joints

Irregular tile spacing can make grouting tricky, but these tips will help:

• Use unsanded grout for tight, uneven joints to avoid cracking

• Pack grout firmly into wider gaps to prevent pitting as it dries

• Check any high spots as grout firms up and re-tool to keep them even

• Take extra care cleaning wider joints to avoid excess haze

With patience, even challenging areas can look smooth and consistent.

When NOT to Use Grout in a Tube

While tube grout works beautifully for most small jobs, there are a few cases when it‘s not advisable:

• Heavy traffic floors or countertops subject to heavy use/abuse

• Wet areas like shower floors with direct water contact

• Tile spaced with joints wider than 1/8" (use sanded tube grout instead)

• Jobs larger than 5 sq ft. (mix traditional grout instead)

• Areas needing maximum strength and durability

• Outdoor grouting where temperatures fluctuate widely

Knowing the limitations allows you to set realistic expectations.

Handy Tools for Easier Application

Having the right tools makes tube grouting go faster and smoother:

• Grout floats – shape joints and remove excess grout

• Grout sponges – smooth, rounded edges prevent scratching

• Grout rakes – handy for spreading grout over large areas

• Grout edge scraper – reaches into corners and crevices

• Grout sealing sponge – seals finished grout quickly

A small investment in quality tools prevents headaches down the road.

In Closing

While often viewed as a "shortcut" product, high-quality grout in a tube allows anyone to achieve professional-looking results, with a bit of skill and know-how. This guide covers proper selection, careful prep, application techniques, curing, and cleanup for flawless finished joints. With a well-chosen grout tube product and proper application, even first-time tilers can grout small projects like backsplashes beautifully. Just stay patient during drying, take steps to prevent haze, and apply sealant after installation for lasting durability and stain resistance.