Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA Grout

Grout color plays a key role in any installation, shaping the overall flow and feel of your design. While personal preference is important, each Clay Imports product includes curated grout recommendations to help guide your choice. You’ll find both monochromatic and contrasting recommendations listed on every product page. Simply visit your tile’s page and scroll down for more grout details!

We do not recommend using any high pigmented grout such as black with handmade tile products.

Here are a few tips:

• For a clean look, we suggest a grout color that closely matches the tile or other elements like countertops, or wall color.
• Contrasting grout colors can really bring out the handcrafted features of our tiles, like surface texture and size variations which can reveal delightful details you might not have noticed before.
• It’s usually best to steer clear of dark grout with light-colored tiles.
• To make the decision a bit easier, we find it's helpful to print out a colored version of the chart or an image of the grout so you can compare it with your tile samples. Just keep in mind that there might be some slight color variations, but having these visuals should definitely help you feel more confident in your choice!

Natural Terracotta – 1/4" to 3/4"

Speciality Terracotta (Cotto, D'Hanis, Organic) – 1/4” to 3/4”

Glazed Terracotta – 1/4” to 5/8” joint recommended
Grout joint spacing for Saltillo tile can vary from 1/4” to 3/4”; for tiles 6” and below, narrower joints generally produce a more modern aesthetic, while larger joint widths are suited for larger tile sizes creating a traditional look.

Glazed Thin Brick – 1/4” to 1/2” joint recommended
The grout spacing for Glazed Thin Brick can range from 1/4" to 1/2". This range ensures that the spacing and scale of your installation remain visually balanced.

Zellige – 1/16” to 1/8” joint recommended
If you opt for a minimal grout spacing of 1/16"-1/8", the surface will have a slightly imperfect but appealing texture. When tiles are placed flush against each other, it creates a unique and artisanal appearance. Increasing the size of the grout joint, however, will give your installation a more traditional look. 

Pool Waterline – 1/8” to 1/2”
Grout spacing for clay tile can range from 1/8" to 1/2". When working with clay tiles, it is important to consider the size variation. A smaller grout joint can lead to uneven grout lines, so opting for larger grout lines can make the installation process easier. 

Clay Tile (Solid, Talavera, Patterned Clay) – 1/8” to 3/8” joint recommended
We recommend between 1/8”-1/4" grout joint for rectified tiles, due to a natural variation in size. An additional deviation of ± 1/4" is considered acceptable for joint straightness and variation of flatness.

Materials Needed:

• Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA grout
• Grout float
• Bucket and clean water
• Grout sponge

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

• Ensure all tiles are clean and firmly set.
• Remove any debris or dust from the grout joints.
• Tiles should be dry before grouting to avoid discoloration.

Step 2: Mix the Grout

• Pour the recommended amount of clean, cool water into a bucket.
• Gradually add Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA grout powder to the water.
• Mix thoroughly using a trowel or mixing paddle until you achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.
• Let it rest for 2-3 minutes, then remix briefly before use.
  (Note: Do not add extra water once mixed.)

Step 3: Apply the Grout

• Using a grout float, spread the grout over the tile surface at a 45-degree angle, pressing it firmly into the joints.
• Work in small sections to prevent the grout from drying too quickly.
• Remove excess grout by scraping the float diagonally across the tiles.

Step 4: Clean the Surface

• After 5-10 minutes (depending on temperature and humidity), wipe the surface with a damp grout sponge.
• Rinse the sponge frequently and avoid excess water to prevent grout haze.
• Continue cleaning until the tile surface is clear and joints are smooth.
• Grout Release can be used prior to grouting to avoid any grout haze.

Step 5: Final Cleaning

• Once the grout has set (usually within 30-60 minutes), use a dry cloth or grout haze remover if needed to polish the tiles.
• Avoid heavy cleaning or water exposure for 24 hours.

Step 6: Curing and Sealing

• Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA doesn’t require sealing, thanks to its stain-resistant properties.
• Allow the grout to cure fully (typically 7 days) before heavy use or cleaning with harsh chemicals.

Follow manufacturers instructions on the packaging for best results!

Colors may not accurately represent the actual color of the installed product due to project conditions, product preparation, installation methods, lighting, image variance, and the type of tile.