Hi All! Newbie with mosaic tile issues!

[Nicesave]

Here's my prob:

I laid some ceramic tiles at the bottom of my water fountain. They will be completely submerged at all times. I used an all-in-one set/grout per the instructions of the expert at Home Depot. I set the tiles, grouted and let it cure for about three weeks when it rained, and the grout got wet. A few days later, I noticed that some of the grout have bubbled over in kind of a rubbery glop. I scraped off as much as I could and allowed the rest to dry. Now I have a partially grouted mosaic patten. What I'm wondering is, should I regrout over this or will it create a "gap" between the old and new grout that could cause trouble in an underwater situation? Also, I have heard that sanded grout should be used. The original grout was not sanded. Do I need to seal it afterwards? Any tips? Much appreciated.

[proszkow]

What did you use to set your tiles with? Did you use premixed thin set?

If so that may be causing your problems. Premixed thin set is not appropraite for under water applications.

Alex

[Nicesave]

Yes, it was pre mixed thin set. The "expert" told me it was ok to use in an underwater application. Hmmmm.....

[bbcamp]

Guess not, huh?

You are going to have to scrape it out and start over. No amount of sealer is going to make this work.

[Nicesave]

Ugh. Even if the tiles are completely bonded down now, after 6 months of no water?

[proszkow]

The container probably states that the thin set is not intended for under water applications. Suggest you go back to HD, complain and get your money back.

Alex

[Nicesave]

Thanks for the advice!

[Mike2]

Better yet, take a picture of that mess with you to HD and talk to the store manager about the bum advice you got. I know it's like sweeping back the tide but some how, some way we have to communicate the true story about this miracle-in-a-pail