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.
Table of Contents
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
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.
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.