Water soaked tiles & non-sanded grout

[Dotk]

We just started laying out grantie tile in our bathroom.  We removed the carpet and are tiiling over concrete slab.  The tiles have soaked up the water from the thinset and now are "enhanced" with the water.  How long does that usually take to dry out, or have we done something wrong?

Also, why do you recommend non-sanded grout?  We're laying 12" granite tiles using a 1/8" joint on our bathroom floor and we  were hoping to use the same grout we used for the porcelain tile floor we laid in the kitchen.  The grout package says it can be used for 1/8" joints.

Just one more question, what is the difference between water based and mineral based sealers?  Do the mineral based sealers require more ventilation and do they have a longer drying time?  Thank you.

[Mark D.]

The color enhancement should fade once the stones are dried. If they are green stones make sure they don't warp as a result of taking the water out of the mortar.

Non sanded grout is denser and packs better plus you never have to worry about the sand getting on the granite and scratching it. This may seem like an unlikely event, but not all stone sold as granite is 100% granite. Often it has other stones and mineral in it that can be scratched. There is no law that says you cannot use a sanded grout, but if you ask 9 setters out of 10 they will recommend non sanded grout on stone tiles, and the 1 who doesn't is probably new to the trade.

Mineral based sealers actually dry faster than water based ones. They have better coverage, better absorption and last longer than water based sealers. I sealed my travertine shower with Hydrex years ago (5? 6?) and it is still sealed. Although the vapors do have some odor it dissipates within minutes, dries invisibly and protects your investment. Here is a link to Hydrex:
http://www.defusco.com/tenax-impregnator-and-sealer-liter-p-2095.html

When sealing stone tiles, seal them after they are laid but before you grout. The sealer will act as a grout release so the grout doesn't stick to the stone. Another advantage of a mineral based sealer such as Hydrex.

Glad to be of service,
Mark