Grout discoloration

[nigel os]

Hi lads,

New to forum so forgive me if its been done before. I used to get a lot of grout discolouration whilst working in Greece. I used to mix the grout leave it for 10 minutes apply it and wipe off with long continuous strokes with a damp but well squeezed spongue. Sometimes beautiful but other times especially on floors some pesky stains. Does anyone know what causes it. My technique or quality of grout? I learnt to tile with a colleague in Crete and never really got to the bottom of it. Always told by Greeks that it was red soil contamination
but that was a fob off for all. (always complimented on our proper setting out and not the Greek habit of starting full tile in a corner just to avoid cuts). Any ideas and is there a grout anyone swears by? Thanks for any info.

 

[White Room]

What grout was it you were using, was it a local one....

 

[ian158]

I've used bal..Ardex...nico bond and Mapei...I find Mapei the best

 

[tilerbarry]

Always double mix the grout with a paddle on your drill, and with the mapei grout never be tempted to add any more water to the mix while you leave it stand for a couple of minutes before the 2nd mix because you'll find it will get wetter looking on its own and when you do your 2nd mix it will be perfect consistency to use. Every few minutes give it a knock up with your bucket trowel ( no water ) and the grout will be good to use for over an hour in bucket if you do this.

 

[nigel os]

It was a greek one. Can't for the life of me think of its name.

 

[nigel os]

Always pretty disciplined when mixing grout like you suggested. I wonder though if it could be because we never used a mixer. Always hand mixed it. Makes you wonder. Thanks barry

 

[nigel os]

Thanks Ian. I will remember that when I get around to doing the kitchen as I only want to do it once.

 

[Sean SML Tiling]

Could be where there are different depths of adhesive? Just a thought probably wrong