Need help in fixing the grout in the kitchen floor

http://cdn.brownstoner.com/4f832c300be52-.jpg

I need some advice in how to go about fixing my ongoing “dissapearing grout” issue in the kitchen floor. To make the story short, when the leg column was initially being installed, but porcelain floor (3/8″) tile cracked (fault of the installer, not of the tile) and it had to be replaced.  Due to the fact that the new one only had 48 hours to dry (it was glued in with thinset), it seems that this time was not enough because when the column was put in, I guess the screws that hold it in place “tilted” the new tile by a fraction.  This has in effect makes the tile move (sway) maybe by a couple of milimeters when someone steps on it.   We have tried to re-grout the spot 3 times now, but due to this slightest of all movements, the grout eventually cracks and within 5-6 weeks almost dissapears.  See the photo attached. It has been suggested to me that to fix this (without redoing the whole job from scratch, as it is impossible since the countertop breakfast table sits on that leg) that I should try one of the two following solutions: 1)  I should mix the grout and right before applying it, I should add a little bit of CEMEX glue and apply that combo directly into the gaps.  This way, it will keep the grout color and the cemex will prevent the grout from carcking again. 2)  I should just buy a beige-colored CAULK (no idea if acrylic or silicone ?!?), and just fill-in the gaps. What should I do to make this a more “permanent” solution?  I want to whatever I do to be able to withstand cleaning of this “very much used” floor with a WET Swiffer Sweeper cloth, and not having these gaps re-open up. All suggestions are very much appreciated!

mystiky

in Tile 13 years ago

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deano | 13 years ago

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If movement is so slight that you can feel it rather than see it, then why not try color-matching with a flexible caulk and seeing if that looks good enough and also holds up to the slight movement.  If it works and you end up forgeting it’s there, great.  If not, you’re just back at this point, considering how to replace the tile.  Nothing to lose.

mystiky | 13 years ago

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http://cdn.brownstoner.com/4f8442aa8e9a9-processed-DSCN1566.jpg

http://cdn.brownstoner.com/4f84429fb32ea-processed-DSCN1568.jpg

I have uploaded two more images which may further help you see what I am dealing with.   It turns out that perhaps I can (?!) replace that tile after all.   Turns out that there are 3 bolts used to hold down the leg.  The tile that has the problem has only one of the bolts.   So perhaps maybe then if I unscrew that bolt, the pressure and weight will now be absorbed by the two remaining bolts which are on a tile with no problems.  Then perhaps I can break this bad tile and have it replaced from scratch with a new one.   I would then wait 4-5 days (enough time?) to let it fully dry and then drill and attach the 3rd bolt back into it. Again, this would be my “last resort” approach.  I still want to try to fix it using cemex and/or caulk and would love to hear from others as to which approach I should try with that. Note that on the top picture that there is only a problem with the grout at the bottom gap, starting in the middle of it and the whole right side gap.  The top left corner and around it, the grout is still set perfectly.  And I can only get the tile to move if I apply a lot preasure (with arms) on the bottom right corner.  The movement is about 1-2 mm. The problem is that this tile is walked-on very much, so it’s going to have frequent preassure.   Thank you again for all your help everyone.

brucef | 13 years ago

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I think you have already realized that the thinset beneath is compromised. I would bridge with wood the table so it is temporarily supported by adjacent tiles. Remove leg temporarily, and try to extricate the loose tile. If you have extras, destroy it to remove, and scrape off the thinset underneath. Take you time and thinset the tile thouroughly and let dry completely. Scrape wet thinset from the grout joint before it hardens. Grout normally and you are good to go.

mystiky | 13 years ago

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Thanks for your suggestions.  Will the grout sealer really stand-up to the tile moving around a bit and not crack anymore?

expedite | 13 years ago

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1) Remove existing grout completely. 2) Add grout sealer to your grout mix. 3) Apply new grout using a rubber float held at a 45 degree angle to insure joints are completely filled. 4) Use a large tile sponge   to remove excess grout & imitate exiting grouted lines in kitchen. Although its just a few joints you will need to repair the proper tools are essential to create a long lasting finish, and if you dont already have all of the tools they can be purchased at homedepot for less than 20 dollars. Good Luck.