MIXING
To minimize color variation when using multiple containers of the
same color grout with different batch numbers, dry-blend the powder
prior to mixing with water. Combine approximately 4 1/2 pints (2.13
L) of cool clean water per 25 lb. bag (11.34 kg) of grout with a
margin trowel or a low speed mixer (less than 300 rpm) to a lump
free, paste-like consistency. Let stand 10 minutes, re-mix before
use. Periodic mixing during application keeps the grout workable
but do not add additional water or additive once mixed. Consistency
of mixing ratio between batches helps to maintain color shade uniformity.
Discard grout when it becomes too stiff to work.
APPLICATION
Installation shall conform to ANSI A108.10 - 1999. Holding a rubber
grout float at a 45° angle, force grout diagonally into joints
ensuring joints are completely filled. Remove excess grout using
edge of float held at a 90° angle. Cleanup can begin as soon
as the grout becomes firm enough to only be slightly indented when
pushed. Use as little water as possible for grout cleanup. Excess
water will cause variation in color and may cause shrinkage, cracks
or pinholes. Smooth and level joints and, in a circular motion,
remove excess grout from tile with a damp small pore grout sponge.
It is best to change cleaning water and rinse sponge frequently.
Using clean water and sponge will enhance color uniformity. Remove
haze from tile surface with a soft, dry cloth.
CURING
Protect fresh grout from damage for a minimum of 72 hours. Like
other portland cement products, Mer-Krete Sanded ColorGrout will
reach full curing in 28 days.
LIMITATIONS
Portland cement grout should not be installed when ambient temperature
is below 50° F (10° C). Exterior applications should not
be performed if rain is expected within 24 hours. Do not use Mer-
Krete Sanded ColorGrout on glazed ceramic tile, marble, or stone
that can be scratched, stained, or damaged when grouted with pigmented
sanded grouts. Follow tile manufacturer’s recommendations.
Test a small area prior to use. Tile with high absorption, surface
porosity or rough, textured surfaces, and/or certain types of porcelain
may require sealing prior to grouting to prevent staining. Efflorescence;
a crystalline deposit that sometimes appears in or on cement grout
as a whitish powder or crust, can occur with any portland cement
based product. If it occurs, remove with ProClean SA (Sulfamic Acid)
cleaner or ANSI approved cleaner. Color variations can occur in
portland cement products, including grout, differing tile types,
tile porosity, jobsite conditions, application, and cleaning techniques.
Color variations can be minimized by following directions and using
as little water as possible for cleanup.
AVAILABILITY
35 COLORS: 25 lb. bags and 10 lb boxes.
Mer-Krete Sanded ColorGrout is available at leading construction
and tile houses and distributors. Contact Mer-Krete for the name
of the nearest dealer.
WARRANTY
Mer-Krete warrants that the product described will be free of
manufacturing defects for one year from the date of the original
purchase when installed in accordance with manufacturer’s
written instructions and industry installations specifications provided
by the TCNA (Tile Council of North America) and ANSI (American National
Standards Institute). Extended system warranties are available.
MAINTENANCE
Mer-Krete Sanded ColorGrout requires routine cleaning with neutral
PH soap and water. Mer-Krete Grout Sealer requires reapplication
every three to five years depending on exposure and use. Performance
and durability may depend on properly maintaining products supplied
by other manufacturers.
TECHNICAL SERVICES
Mer-Krete maintains technical field representatives available throughout
the country. For distributor information, call Toll Free (800) 851-6303.
| |
Joint Width
|
| Tile
Size
|
1/8" |
1/4"
|
3/8" |
1/2" |
1" x 1" x 1/4"
|
0.5 |
0.85 |
1.12 |
1.32 |
2" x 2" x 1/4"
|
0.27 |
0.5 |
0.69 |
0.85 |
3" x 6" x 1/2"
|
0.28 |
0.54 |
0.78 |
0.99 |
4" x 2" x 1/4"
|
0.21 |
0.39 |
0.55 |
0.69 |
4" x 4" x 3/8"
|
0.21 |
0.41 |
0.58 |
0.75 |
4" x 4" x 1/2"
|
0.21 |
0.41 |
0.6 |
0.78 |
4" x 8" x 3/8"
|
0.16 |
0.31 |
0.45 |
0.58 |
4" x 8" x 1/2"
|
0.21 |
0.41 |
0.6 |
0.78 |
6" x 4" x 1/4"
|
0.12 |
0.23 |
0.33 |
0.43 |
6" x 6" x 3/8"
|
0.14 |
0.28 |
0.41 |
0.53 |
6" x 6" x 1/4"
|
0.1 |
0.19 |
0.27 |
0.35 |
6" x 8" x 3/4"
|
0.25 |
0.49 |
0.72 |
0.93 |
8" x 8" x 3/8"
|
0.11 |
0.21 |
0.31 |
0.41 |
8" x 10" x 1/2"
|
0.13 |
0.26 |
0.38 |
0.49 |
10" x 10" x 3/8"
|
0.09 |
0.17 |
0.25 |
0.33 |
10" x 10" x 1/2"
|
0.12 |
0.23 |
0.34 |
0.44 |
12" x 12" x 1/4"
|
0.05 |
0.1 |
0.14 |
0.19 |
12" x 12" x 3/8"
|
0.07 |
0.14 |
0.21 |
0.28 |
12" x 12" x 1/2"
|
0.1 |
0.19 |
0.28 |
0.37 |
15" x 15" x 3/8"
|
0.06 |
0.12 |
0.17 |
0.23 |
| The cross reference number
indicates the number of pounds per square feet.
|
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE:
Specification assistance is highly recommended prior to a proposed
installation.
Contact any Mer-Krete technical representative for recommendations
over existing substrates or problem areas.
| Mer-Krete
Sanded ColorGrout: ANSI A 118.6 Sanded
|
| TEST/DESIGNATION
|
EVALUATION |
ANSI SPEC |
Liquid Powder Ratio
Part by Weight |
18.7:100 |
N/A |
Water Absorption (H4.4)
50% R.H. to Impression
Immersion to Dry
|
8.28%
10.26%
|
Less than 10%
Less than 12% |
Compressive Strength (H4.5)
28-Day |
3568 psi |
3500 psi |
| Tensile Strength
(H4.6)
7-Day
28-Day
|
350 psi
399 psi
|
325 psi
350 psi
|
Flexural Strength (H4.8)
7-Day |
1198 psi |
350 psi |
|
