Grout problem. Just re-tiled around bathtub. Grout will not dry in some places.?

Question

Grout looks good for a while, then gets "mushy" and comes out of the cracks. Wonder if our hard water is causing the problem. Have used sealer over the grout, did'nt help.

Answer 1

It sounds like the minerals in the water interact with the cement below....I suggest you take the tiles off and use a laminate product to cover your shower area.  The problem will persist otheriwise...

Answer 2

Did you let it dry at least 24 hours after application?

Answer 3

Clean out the mushy grout - it's not going to cure if you're having those problems.

But, is water getting behind it? If you think that the mineral content in your water is the culprit, get a different kind of grout. Instead of the kind that has latex in the power and you add water, get the kind where you pour the milky white latex into the grout, then you don't have to use your water at all.

Make sure the tile joints are clean and that there is no water getting in there. Give the grout 24 hours to cure before sealing and before using as a shower.

Only mix enough grout that you can use before it starts to set. If the grout mixture starts to set, throw it away, don't try to extend it's workable "wet life" by adding water.

Answer 4

It seems as though the grout time was gone when this grout was applied. You only have so much time to apply grout and after the time elapses(about 30 minutes) a new batch of grout must be mixed. Take out all the mushy grout and regrout. If the grout is white I would just caulk the joints after removing the grout. Just make sure the caulk is for wet areas.

Answer 5

when you grout in the bathroom you should all ways use that clue, it looks like milk it gives grout extra strength use no water, and when mixing or stiring grout when it looks like elephant skin that is good ! ask for the clue where you bought the tile,