Although not required, for optimal results, Ultracolor Plus FA or Ultracolor Plus Max may be sealed - especially in places such as showers. Sealers make grout maintenance easier in the long run. The solution: UltraCareGrout Sealer.
A thin layer of residue, or grout haze, left on the tile surface can usually be removed with a dry cloth. If it is more stubborn to remove, use the appropriate UltraCare product recommended in our technical document: “Removing Grout Haze.”
Yes, you can apply Flexcolor CQ grout over existing Flexcolor CQ grout on deeper grout joints. The key is to leave only a thin layer on the joint surface.
For details, see our “Grout Troubleshooting Guide.”
There are several recommended surfaces such as: plywood, concrete, gypsum and cement backer units (CBUs). All require different preparation. For more information, see the technical document “Surface Preparation Requirements.”
It is the trowel used that will determine how much mortar is needed.
On average, a 1/4" x 1/4" x 1/4" (6 x 6 x 6 mm) square trowel covers 80-100 sq. ft. (7.43 - 9.29 m²) per per 50 lb. (22.7 kg) bag.
A 1/4" x 3/8" x 1/4" (6 x 10 x 6 mm) square trowel covers 60 to 80 sq. ft. (5.57 - 7.43 m²) per 50 lb. (22.7 kg) bag.
A 1/2" x 1/2" x 1/2" (12 x 12 x 12 mm) square trowel covers 40 to 50 sq. ft. (3.72 - 4.64 m²) per bag.
The amount may vary from one mortar to another. Consult the product calculator for tile mortars and adhesives on our website.
The size of the tile determines the choice of trowel. Large format tiles (where any side is larger than 15" [38.1 cm]) require a square-notch trowel with deeper notches like 1/2" x 1/2" x 1/2" (12 x 12 x 12 mm). Smaller sizes can be installed with a 1/4" x 1/4" x 1/4" (6 x 6 x 6 mm), or 1/4" x 3/8" x 1/4" (6 x 10 x 6 mm), square-notch trowel.
No, the concrete must be prepared by mechanical means to receive a thin-set mortar. New concrete surfaces should be wood-floated or broom-finished. Mechanically prepare concrete substrates to a minimum International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) concrete surface profile (CSP) of #2 to #3 for setting mortars. Grinding with a diamond blade is sufficient in most installations.