CTI Grouting & Finishing Techniques 3

Question 1

According to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), movement joints (expansion joints) in tile work should be placed:

Accepted Answer

Wherever the tile field changes direction or at structural joints, plus every 8-12 feet in large fields

Answer

TCNA guidelines call for movement joints at changes in direction, over structural joints, and within large fields (every 8–12 feet interior, 8–10 feet exterior) to accommodate thermal and structural movement.

Question 2

What is the correct procedure when grout is starting to set up in the bucket before you finish the job?

Accepted Answer

Discard the batch and mix a fresh, smaller quantity

Answer

Re-tempering grout by adding water after initial set compromises its strength and bond; the proper solution is to discard and mix a fresh batch.

Question 3

A tile installer notices that grout joints on a newly completed wall installation appear sunken or concave. This most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

The grout was not packed sufficiently into the joint depth

Answer

Sunken or concave grout joints result from insufficient packing during application, leaving the grout below the tile face rather than flush with it.

Question 4

Which type of grout is most appropriate for a food-preparation countertop installation where stain and chemical resistance are paramount?

Accepted Answer

Epoxy grout

Answer

Epoxy grout is non-porous, highly stain-resistant, and resists most chemicals, making it the preferred choice for food-preparation countertops.

Question 5

During grout cleanup, the tile installer should change the rinse water in the bucket:

Accepted Answer

Frequently to prevent redepositing dissolved grout back onto the tile surface

Answer

Dirty rinse water contains dissolved grout solids that will redeposit and harden on tile surfaces as a haze if not changed frequently.

(CTI) Certified Tile Installer Practice Test

(CTI) Certified Tile Installer Practice Test

CTI Grouting & Finishing Techniques 3