Mix joint sand with cement: instructions for joint mortar

A suitable grout is required to grout tiles and slabs. If you want to do without expensive finished products, you can mix joint sand and cement yourself. Instructions are in the following article.

Mix grout yourself

The independent production of a joint compound offers various advantages. On the one hand, hobby gardeners and do-it-yourselfers can adjust the amount to their individual needs. In addition, the own mixture offers price advantages compared to ready-made mortar from the hardware store.

materials and tools

Various materials are required to mix the mortar properly. In addition to joint sand, water and the type of cement, the following tools will help:

  • container for stirring
  • plastic sheet for protection
  • mixer or shovel
  • Gloves, goggles and work clothes
  • Kelle

The mixing ratio

In order for the joint mortar to set properly and meet the requirements in the long term, the mixing ratio is also important. To prepare a grout, use the following mixing ratio as a guide:

  • four parts of sand
  • a part of cement
  • half a part of water
Tip: Calculate the required quantity carefully. Multiply each factor to get the mix right.

Prepare – water – mix

The mortar for the joints is produced in several steps. First, attachment is required. The dry materials go into the mixing container. With the use of protective equipment, however, you prevent health hazards. When preparing, mix the dry mixture thoroughly. In the next step, the water is added to the joint sand-cement mixture. The water comes in small craters. Finally, mix all the ingredients.

Note: Mixing evenly in a circular motion produces the best results. The finished grout is glossy and ideal for quick processing.

The time spent

Many craftsmen and do-it-yourselfers shy away from the expected expenditure of time and opt for the ready-mix from the hardware store. However, the independent production of the mortar is associated with little effort. Once the materials and tools are in hand, you’ll go through the entire guide in a matter of minutes.

frequently asked Questions

The cement aggregate should not be more than 4 millimeters in cross-section. Quartz sand varies between 0.1 and 0.3 millimeters. Some types of sand have even finer grains. As a result, a smooth grout is formed.

When mixing the grout, it depends on the materials used. Working vessel and water should both be clean. Mix sand and cement first before adding water.

Grouting offers various advantages for walls, slabs or stones. On the one hand, you enhance the appearance with the joint compound. From a technical perspective, the joints protect slabs, stones or walls from damage caused by the weather.

Kira Bellingham

I'm a homes writer and editor with more than 20 years' experience in publishing. I have worked across many titles, including Ideal Home and, of course, Homes & Gardens. My day job is as Chief Group Sub Editor across the homes and interiors titles in the group. This has given me broad experience in interiors advice on just about every subject. I'm obsessed with interiors and delighted to be part of the Homes & Gardens team.

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