Grouting a stone backsplash can transform your kitchen or bathroom by pulling your tile design together into a cohesive look. Properly grouting stone requires careful technique and the right materials to get a long-lasting, professional result. Learning how to grout natural stone backsplash tile without staining or messing up your beautiful stone is crucial.
With some preparation and care while applying, you can achieve stunning grout lines that accentuate the colors and textures of your stone tile. We will cover tips for selecting quality grout, applying and cleaning it correctly, and sealing the grout to protect your work. Follow these best practices for flawless grout in your stone backsplash.
Selecting Grout for Stone Tile
Choosing the right grout for natural stone tile is the first step to success. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting grout for stone:
Grout Color
The color of your grout plays a major role in the look of your backsplash. It can complement or contrast your stone tile colors. Light-colored grouts make the grout lines less obvious, while dark grouts highlight the grid pattern. White or off-white is the most popular choice with stone tile. Be sure to check grout samples against your tile to ensure it is the right hue.
Grout Texture and Width
Grout comes in different grades of texture from smooth to more coarse. The texture impacts the appearance and performance. Smoother grout is easier to clean. Wider grout lines are better for more textured tile and grout. The general recommendation is 1/8” lines for stone tile.
Epoxy vs Cement Grout
Cement grout is the most common and cost-effective option for stone tile. It provides good adhesion and water-resistance when sealed properly. Epoxy grout resists stains better, but can be more difficult to work with and discolors over time. In wet areas only, epoxy grout may be the better choice.
Additives for Stone Grout
Look for cement grout specifically formulated for stone and natural tile. These contain additives to prevent staining and discoloration. Using a grout release agent or sealer on the stone before grouting also helps prevent the grout from adhering too much to the stone surface.
Grout Stone Tile Backsplash
Once you have selected the right grout, preparation and careful application technique will ensure it looks perfect. Follow these tips when grouting a stone backsplash:
Clean and Seal Stone Before Grouting
It is crucial to clean and seal your natural stone tile before grouting. This provides a protective barrier and keeps the grout from penetrating or staining the stone. Use a tile stone cleaner and sealer formulated for natural stone.
Apply the sealer according to package directions, usually one to three thin coats. Allow it to fully cure for 24-48 hours before grouting. The sealant will keep the stone clean during grouting and facilitate an easier cleanup.
Work in Small Sections
Trying to grout too large an area at one time can lead to a rushed, sloppy application. Grout in sections no larger than 4-6 square feet. This allows you to work methodically and carefully pack the joints before moving on.
Break up the backsplash into logical portions using the natural divider lines in your tile layout. Grout one section fully before proceeding to the next area.
Pack the Grout into Joints
Using a rubber grout float or squeegee, work the grout thoroughly into the joint lines. Hold it at a 45° angle applying even pressure and stroking diagonally across the joints to pack in the grout.
Make sure there are no gaps or low spots where water can collect. Remove any excess grout from the tile surface with the float. Grout joints should be filled just slightly below the surface of the tiles.
Clean Grout Off Stone Tile
As you complete each section, use a lightly dampened sponge to wipe a thin film of water over the tiles. This helps loosen any grout haze and expose any high spots. Use a damp sponge cut into a sharp edge to gently scrub off the excess grout.
Rinse the sponge frequently and change the water often to prevent spreading around dried grout. Checking at an angle with good lighting will reveal any remaining film. Repeat the cleanup process until all grout is removed from the tile surface.
Avoid Smearing Dark Grout on Light Stone
Take extra care cleaning excess grout off light-colored natural stone when using dark grout. Dampen the stone first and use very little water when sponging to prevent dark grout from spreading across the stone surface. Wipe gently and frequently rinse the sponge.
Let Grout Dry and Cure
Give grout joints at least 24 hours to dry and cure before using the backsplash area. Avoid water contact for the first 3 days. After 7 days of curing, inspect for any shrinkage cracks and touch up with additional grout as needed.
Seal Grout Once Cured
Freshly grouted stone tile backsplash needs to be sealed to prevent stains and make it easy to clean. There are two options for sealing grout:
Penetrating Grout Sealer
Using a penetrating grout sealer is the best way to protect cement grout on natural stone. These seep into the pores of the grout to provide a water and stain-repellent barrier.
Apply with a small paint brush only to the grout lines. Avoid spilling onto the stone tile, as it can make the surface look blotchy and feel rough. Apply two thin coats of sealer, allowing it to penetrate for 15-20 minutes before wiping off any excess.
Reapply grout sealer about once a year, or whenever moisture no longer beads up on the grout lines. This maintains the protective barrier.
Topical Grout Sealer
For wider grout lines or more textured tile, a topical grout sealer can provide extra protection. These coat the entire top surface of the grout joint to create a waterproof seal.
Carefully wipe or paint the sealer only on the grout, avoiding the stone tile. Apply a thin, even layer and wipe off any excess. Reapply a topical sealer 3-4 times per year.
Grout Maintenance
Properly maintaining your grouted stone backsplash keeps it looking pristine. Follow these care tips:
- Use a pH-neutral gentle cleaner for regular upkeep cleaning. Avoid harsh disinfectants or vinegar.
- Re-seal grout lines once a year or whenever moisture is no longer beading up on the surface. This refreshes the protective barrier.
- Inspect for cracks or holes in the grout from normal wear or humidity changes. Repair with matching grout.
- Have grout professionally cleaned and re-sealed every 3-5 years to keep the grouted stone backsplash looking like new.
Common Grout Issues on Stone Tile
Even when properly applied, grout on natural stone tile can experience some issues. Here are solutions for some potential problems:
Cracking Grout
If hairline cracks appear in the grout joints, it is likely due to minor settling or normal expansion and contraction. Cracking worsens over time allowing water penetration.
Use a grout saw or sharp utility knife to dig out the old grout at least 1/8″ deep. Apply new grout, matching the original color as closely as possible.
For wider cracks, fill deeper with caulk backer rod before regrouting to prevent the new grout from sinking in too deeply.
Grout Haze on Stone Tile
A white haze that appears on the surface of stone tile after grouting is excess calcium carbonate. It was not adequately cleaned from the stone before it dried.
Dab Hydrochloric acid gel on the hazy area with a cotton ball. Limit contact only to affected spots as acid can etch stone. Rinse well and dry. Reseal cleaned areas of stone.
Dingy or Discolored Grout
Grout that becomes stained over time or develops dark discoloration can be refreshed. Use an oxygen bleach cleaner formulated for grout. Apply as directed, let set 10 minutes, scrub with a stiff brush and rinse clean.
For epoxy or very stained grout, a stronger poultice cleaner may be needed. Always test cleaners on an inconspicuous spot first before applying to visible areas.
Mold or Mildew in Grout
The moist environment of bathrooms can lead to mold and mildew growth in grout joints. Disinfect and kill fungal growth with a fungicidal tile cleaner. Apply as directed and let set 10-20 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing away. Improve ventilation to prevent recurrence.
With proper materials, application, and maintenance, you can achieve long-lasting, professional grout lines on your stone tile backsplash. Paying close attention to preparation, technique, and cleanup will keep your grouted stone looking flawless for years. Taking time to correctly grout natural stone backsplash tile protects its beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grouting Stone Tile Backsplash
Should I use sanded or unsanded grout for stone backsplash?
Unsanded grout is recommended for grout joints under 1/8” wide. The fine texture can fully pack narrow stone tile joints. Some polymers added to unsanded grout also help with adhesion and flexibility.
What color grout looks best with stone backsplash tile?
Lighter grout colors like white, ivory, or light grey allow the veining and colors in the natural stone to take center stage. Darker grouts can also create a striking contrast. Sample grout colors against the tile before deciding.
How soon can I get water on grouted stone backsplash?
Avoid water contact with freshly grouted stone backsplash for at least 72 hours while the grout fully cures and hardens. Prevent staining by applying a penetrating grout sealer after 3 days.
Why does my grout crack after installing stone backsplash?
Some minor cracking is normal with changes in humidity during curing. Extensive cracking is from improper technique or surface movement. Grout repair is needed when cracks are large enough to allow water penetration.
What is the easiest way to apply grout on stone backsplash?
Using a grout bag similar to a piping bag lets you quickly fill joints while keeping the grout contained and off the tile surface. Squeeze it into joints and finalize smoothing with a rubber grout float.
How do I clean dried grout haze off my stone backsplash tile?
Use a Hydrochloric acid-based haze remover applied to a small area with a cotton ball. Limit contact only to affected spots and rinse thoroughly. Reseal cleaned areas of stone tile afterwards.
Conclusion
Grouting stone tile backsplash brings the finishing touch to your design with clean, attractive grout lines. Paying close attention to proper products and techniques helps prevent staining or discoloration of the beautiful stone. Sealing prevents damage during installation and safeguards the finished grouted backsplash.
With care taken during application and routine maintenance to clean and re-seal the grout, your stone backsplash can look pristine for years of daily use. Achieving an expert-quality grouted stone tile backsplash relies on diligence and patience during each step of the process. The results will be a showcase backdrop with the perfect palette of stone and grout.