Tile Grout: Common Question And Answers

Tile grout comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. To aid you with your shopping, you’ve come to the correct spot.

Choosing the right product might be a challenge. What are the benefits of using a specific shade of grout? Sanded or unsanded grout, which one is better for a bathroom floor? For your convenience, we’ve put together a FAQ that answers all of the most frequently asked questions about grout.

Find out what types of grout are available, how to choose a color, and how to clean and preserve it in this comprehensive guide.

What is Grout? Learn the Basics

Tile joints, which are the spaces between the tiles, are filled with grout. By filling these joints, it strengthens the tiles’ adhesion and protects the corners and edges from being damaged.

Polymer-enhanced Portland cement is the most common basis for grout. In certain cases, the sand may be present, while in others, it may be absent. If you don’t already have a latex addition or sealer in your mixture, you can do so to improve its moisture and stain resistance.

What is the difference between grout and mortar?

Grout and mortar are sometimes confused, but they perform distinct functions in the tile installation process. Applying mortar to a subfloor or other installation surface is the glue that holds it in place. However, once the tiles are in place and ready for use, grout is used to fill in the cracks and spaces between them.

In order to accomplish these functions, the compositions of the two main types of mortar and grout differ. Mortar, also known as thinset, is a mixture of sand, water, and cement that may or may not contain additives to improve bonding, water resistance, or flexibility. Most grout is made of Portland cement.

What are the types of grout?

Because no two tiles are exactly alike, no two batches of grout are exactly alike, either. The ideal option for you will be determined by the size of your tile and the location where it will be installed.

A lot of sand is included in sanded grout. Large tile joints, ranging in width from 1/8″ to 1/2″, should use this method. Large gaps are filled in by the coarser texture, which prevents shrinkage and structural problems. The extra sand in sanded grout makes it ideal for use with floor tiles.

Joints less than 1/8″ broad can be filled with non-sanded grout. Unsanded grout is ideal for use on walls, countertops, and bathtub enclosures since it adheres well to the surfaces it is installed on. Although it’s durable, it can’t withstand a lot of foot activity.

Standard grout is created from polymer-enhanced Portland cement and is available in two forms: sanded and unsanded. To improve stain resistance, bonding, and flexibility, polymer additives can be used in the mixture.

Resins and filler are used to make Epoxy Grout, which resists moisture and stains. Epoxy serves as a sealer, thus it is completely waterproof. Stain- and chemical-resistance combine in this alternative, which also forms a strong binding. Installing, on the other hand, is a lengthy and time-consuming process.

It’s becoming more common for manufacturers to produce pre-mixed and stain-resistant powder grouts that don’t need to be sealed and dry quickly. DIYers’ best friend, these high-quality, specialty grouts are a must-have. Alternatively, stain-resistant grout can be purchased without the use of epoxy.

How much grout do I need?

Measuring your space, the size of your tiles, and the thickness of the tile joints can help you determine how much grout you’ll need.

Grout powder is typically needed for a 100-square-foot area covered by 12-inch-by-12-inch tiles and 0.25-inch-by-0.25-inch tile joints, on average (source). If you’re not sure how much grout you’ll need, buy a little extra just in case.

How do you choose grout color?

Consider how you plan to utilize the space before making a decision on the grout color. Dark grout in high-traffic areas hides dirt and grime better. If you’re tiling your bathroom walls, consider using a light gray or even white grout to open up the room. A slightly lighter brown grout will give you a more realistic wood-look tile.

Does grout color need to match the tile?

The color of the grout and the tile don’t necessarily have to match, and finding an exact match might be difficult. Powder pigments are susceptible to dilution and color change when exposed to water or sealants. Consider epoxy grout if you want a consistent color and less chance of dilution in the finished product.

Instead of trying to match colors perfectly, consider coordinating them instead. Try to use colors that complement each other. Color charts and color wheels can be helpful in this endeavor. The greatest method to locate what you’re looking for in a color is to compare it to other colors.

Can you change grout color?

It is possible to darken or level out the color variances in grout by staining it. Grout stain products that also serve as sealants are common, so you’re getting two for the price of one.

How do you remove grout?

It’s not a good idea to attempt to remove grout since you run the risk of damaging the tile. It’s best to clean the grout and repaint if you’re not content with the appearance. Retiling the floor is another option for a fresh look.

How to Grout Tile

1. Organize your surroundings: Get rid of any dust or debris from the joints of the tiles. Masking tape can be used to protect neighboring surfaces.
2. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed when mixing the grout. In a 5-gallon bucket, combine the powder and water. Due to the risk of introducing too much air into the mixture, this should be done manually rather than using a power drill and paddle attachment. The paint stirrer stick or a margin trowel may be more appropriate for this task.
3. Grout the tile joints by scooping a workable quantity onto a grout float and smearing it on the joints. The float should be held at a 45-degree angle to the tile surface while pressing the grout into the joint between each tile. Sweep diagonally across the joints using a sweeping motion.
4. Once all the joints have been filled, use the float to scrape away any extra grout. A moist sponge can be used to remove any residual grout.
5. A damp sponge can be used to smooth down any roughness in the grout lines before it dries. The idea is to create a room with clean, uniform lines.
6. In addition to serving as a sealant, caulk also serves as an expansion gap. Showers and bathrooms, on the other hand, should have grout applied to the walls and floors instead of caulk. Wherever there are intersecting horizontal and/or vertical surfaces, use the product.
7. In order to get rid of the “haze” of grout that accumulates on your tiles over time, follow these steps. To eliminate the haze, use a microfiber towel to thoroughly clean the surface of the tiles.
8. A little paintbrush or an applicator tool is included with the grout sealer to apply the sealer to the grout after it has hardened. When it comes to sealing stone tiles, there are spray sealers that cover a large area.

How do you mix grout?

A margin trowel or a paint stirrer stick can be used to mix grout powder and water in a 5-gallon bucket. Scrape the remaining powder from the bucket’s walls as you mix. Make sure to keep going until all the grout powder has been dissolved and the slurry is uniformly smooth. Allow the grout to’slake’ for 10 minutes before using it.

If the grout hasn’t had time to set properly before being used, it’s more likely to break. Using a quick-drying grout means you don’t have to wait for it to slake before using it. Always refer to the manufacturer’s directions before using any new product.

It’s best not to combine all of your ingredients at once because they may dry out and become useless. As you apply it, work in a limited area while mixing little portions at a time.

How long does grout take to dry?

Grout dries and hardens in a matter of days on average, although this depends on the type of grout used, as well as how large the area is. Innovative new grout materials are being developed by manufacturers that dry quickly, allowing you to spend less time waiting and more time admiring your new tile.

How to Seal Grout

1. Consider the area where the sealer will be applied to see if there is a lot of traffic or dampness. Solvent-based sealers are a better choice if you know the grout will be subjected to wear and tear. It is also important to consider the available application methods when choosing a sealer: whether to paint, spray, or roll it on.
2. Clear the area: Using masking tape, protect any adjoining baseboards, cabinets, and other vital areas. They will be safe against any further sealant with this.
3. Begin by applying the sealer to the opposite side of the room from the exit. Make your way down the grout lines by rolling, painting, or spraying. To guarantee complete coverage, be meticulous in your application.
4. Wait at least 15 minutes for the first layer to dry completely before applying another coat.
5. Depending on the thickness of your paint, you may need one to three more coats of paint. To be on the safe side, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Apply a second coat if necessary by repeating the first layer’s steps.
6. Before continuing, allow the seal to cure and dry completely. Depending on the goods, this can take up to 48 hours to complete.
7. If you’re not sure about the seal, try drizzling a little water on it. A second application of sealant is needed if water seeps through the surface. Use your floor if the water beads up and does not soak in.

Why should you seal grout?

Grout must be protected from moisture by sealing it. Unless grout is sealed, it is susceptible to mold and mildew growth because it is porous. Adding a sealer to your grout not only makes it easier to clean and more hygienic, but it also increases its durability and stain-resistance. All grout that hasn’t been sealed with a sealer should be sealed.

When does grout need to be sealed?

After the grout has dried and cured, it should be sealed immediately. Maintaining a brand-new appearance is easy with this method. When you seal, you don’t have to do it all at once. Because the grout’s protective covering wears down and becomes less effective over time, it should be resealed every few years or so.

Sprinkle some water on your grout to see whether it needs to be resealed. Unless the water soaks into the surface, the seal is still in place.

How do you clean grout in stone tile?

Caustic cleaners can penetrate the pores of natural stone tiles and cause them to discolor. Lemon or vinegar juice should be avoided in all cleaning products.

The best way to clean the grout is to use a mild solution of soap and water and a toothbrush. You can always use a stone cleaner if everything else fails. You can use the same grout that you use for your stone tiles.

How often should you clean grout?

Every two to three months, give your grout a good scrub down. Spot cleaning is a good way to prevent spots and stains from accumulating over time. Deep cleaning will be a breeze now that there aren’t as many tough stains to contend with.

What is the best grout cleaner?

Best Homemade Grout Cleaners

• To make a gentle cleaning solution, combine hot water with dish soap.
• Baking soda and lemon juice can be used to remove tough stains. Porous tiles, on the other hand, should be avoided.
• It’s possible to use hydrogen peroxide on its own or in combination with baking soda. Porous tiles should be spared from its application.
• Dilute a little amount of vinegar with water and apply to the grout surface for a few minutes before wiping away. This is the vinegar solution. Porous tiles can be stained by vinegar, so avoid using it.

Best Store-Bought Grout Cleaners

• Rather than completely getting rid of stubborn grout stains, the grout pen simply covers them up with a new shade of the same hue. In reality, it’s more of a disguise than a genuine cleaning agent.
• Bleach powder containing oxygen: Oxygen bleach powder helps remove tough stains. Rubber gloves should be used in a well-ventilated environment to prepare a solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t use oxygen bleach on porous tiles and test it out in an isolated area first.
• Apply a small amount of steam to the grout lines to clean them. Ground-in dirt may be loosened by the combination of heat and moisture.

How to Grout Tile and Use Mortar

What’s Mortar?

Tile adhesive is a term that refers to the substance used to mix and apply mortar. The filler used to fill and seal the crevices between the tiles is called grout. There’s a mortar or grout product for every type of tile and every tile installation location. Your new tile will look great for years to come if you do your homework and pick the right supplies.

Before you go shopping for mortar or grout, you’ll need to know the following:

• Stone, ceramic, glass, or metal tile? Depending on the type of tile, there are varied setbacks.
• Is it on a wall or a floor? Is it wet or dry? Please note that mortars for submerged areas, such as pools and fountains, are required.
• Do you need it for drywall, a backer board, or some other type of flooring?
• How many square feet of tile are you going to need?
• Larger, heaver tiles necessitate certain types of mortar. A weaker adhesive can be used on mosaic tile. A large-format tile is one whose edge measures more than 15 inches in length. Small-format tiles are defined as those that are no larger than a square foot. The mortar and trowel you’ll use in your project will be affected by these two classes.

A good tile project necessitates the use of the proper trowel and mortar. Your tiling job may fail if the mortar is done incorrectly. Size and type of tile matter whether it’s on the floor or the wall, inside or outside.

Types of Mortar

Mortar can be purchased pre-mixed and ready to use, or it can be purchased in powder form. Water or a polymer component may be added to the powder. Additional flexibility and enhanced adhesion are provided by the inclusion of the additive. Thinset mortar, a cement-based product, is also available for use on flat, level surfaces.

A professional should use rapid-set mortar because it hardens so quickly. You should always check the product specifications to make sure you know what surfaces and substrates you may apply mortar to, what temperature you should use, and what kind of trowel you should use for the project.

Tip

When you install glass tile, you’ll be able to see the substrate behind it. For the finest appearance, use white mortar and a straight-edge trowel (rather than a notched one).

Types of Grout

Sanded (cementitious) or unsanded grout is the most common type of grout. If you want to decorate your walls or floors, you can use one of these products. You can buy pre-mixed grout that’s ready to use, or you can buy it in powder form and mix it with water as you go. Powdered grout might be weakened if you use too much water when mixing it. The product’s instructions should be followed to the letter.

To ensure you have enough cement and grout to complete the project, it’s a good idea to purchase additional supplies.

• Slightly larger grout joints (up to 5/8-inch) should be filled with sanded grout to help prevent cracking and shrinking.
• Grout Joints Up to 1/8″ Should Use Unsanded Grout. To avoid scratching the tile, use only unsanded grout with glass, polished marble, or metal tile.
• Acrylic grout is a wonderful choice for moist locations, such as decks and showers, because it is resistant to mold and mildew. Designed to be mildew-resistant, it’s also designed to keep its color.
• Epoxy grout is more difficult to work with than other forms of grout. It’s a popular countertop material because of its durability. It is not necessary to seal epoxy grout.

Grout Colors

It’s up to you whether you want to use grout to complement or contrast your tile’s color. Before you make a purchase, compare the appearance of your current tile and grout with what you intend to purchase.

Make sure the grout color is compatible with the tile you’re using in your project. Using a more porous tile could allow the grout to color the tile. If your grout isn’t sealed, stains can show up more easily in light-colored grout. Grout that is darker in color has a greater chance of fading over time.

Precolored grout has been replaced with a more recent innovation: tintable grout. It is possible to create a specific shade of grout by mixing different pigments into either a light or a dark base.

How to Choose the Right Grout for Any Tile Job

Traditional cement-based grouts and modern resin-based grouts are the two most common types of grout. Consider the factors listed in this guide when deciding on a method that’s right for you, your project, and your resources.

When it comes to selecting a grout for your tile installation, the options are dizzyingly endless. Look for the A118 standard on the product label or online data sheet to determine the type of grout. Yet, there is no such standard for premixed grouts.

Cement-based Grouts

When mixed with water or a water-based polymer, these traditional, tried-and-true grouts harden as the cement reacts with them.

When and How to Apply:

Use Type A118.6 cement grout on bathroom walls and any other surfaces that will not be exposed to water or food stains. Grouts of higher performance cement (Type A118.7) can be utilized for a variety of purposes including floors, kitchen backsplashes and countertops, shower stall and tub surround applications.

Pros:

A 25-pound bag of affordable, forgiving cement grout costs between $10 and $14. Glass and polished stone tiles are best suited for this type of grout because it is the only one having an unsanded option. Cement grouts with higher performance ($48–$50 for 25 lbs.) set up faster, but they’re also easier to use.

Cons:

Cracking, staining, mildew, and efflorescence are all problems that can be caused by inflexible materials (surface lime deposits). Once they’ve cured, they’ll need to be re-sealed on a regular basis. The color spectrum is limited and may not be uniform when used (this is less of a problem with high-performance mixes). Acidic cleaners might damage the surface.

Resin-based grouts

The two types of these grouts are Type A118.3 two-part epoxy grouts and pre-mixed, flexible acrylic or urethane resin grouts.

When and How to Use:

Both versions can be used indoors or outdoors on nearly any tile project and do not require sealing.

Premixed, flexible grouts

Pros:

They’re packaged in easy-to-use buckets that don’t require any additional ingredients or mixing. With this grout, you don’t have to wait to clean the joints like you would with other types. As soon as they’ve hardened, these grouts are extremely water-resistant and flexible. Higher-priced premixes ($50–$80 per gallon) are more resistant to mold and bacteria than lower-priced formulae.

Cons:

The grit in all premixed grouts makes them prone to scratching delicate surfaces such as polished stone or glass. Because of their sensitivity to intense heat and humidity, they should not be used in steam showers. Premixes made of urethane become yellow when exposed to the sun.

Two-part epoxy grouts

Pros:

Stainproof, watertight, chemical-resistant, and extremely strong are just some of the qualities of these two resin-based grouts. Epoxies are durable enough for steam showers and swimming pools because they harden yet retain some elasticity when cured. It is possible to get sanded and unsanded blends. If you want your grout to be a vibrant color, this is the one to choose.

Cons:

Epoxies are difficult to work with since their resins must be blended in the correct proportion and the pace at which they harden depends on the temperature. In warm weather, they harden quickly, but in cold weather, they take longer to solidify. If exposed to the sun, they can turn yellow and may discolor permeable stone. The most expensive grout option is epoxies, which are best left to professional installers at $9–$15 per lb.

7 BEST SHOWER TILE GROUTS

1. LATICRETE SPECTRALOCK PRO PREMIUM MINI PARTS A&B

Pros:

• Color homogeneity, durability, and stain resistance are all provided by high-performance epoxy grout.
• Ceramic tile, glass tile, and stone can all benefit from this product.
• Re-grouting is a breeze with this product.
• Stain-causing mold and mildew are inhibited by Microban antimicrobial product protection.
• Installing it is a breeze.

Cons:

• In order for Part C to be fully functional, it is possible that
• It hardens quickly (you need to work faster)
• To cover a large area, you may need a lot of product.

Sebring Tip:

Part A and Part B must be mixed together quickly after that. Because the product sets up so quickly, you should never mix more than you can use in 30 minutes. In order to work with the product, it must be let to rest for at least 40 minutes after mixing. The grout hardens in four hours or less and is ready to use after a 24-hour curing period.

This grout is simple to put in. Follow the directions exactly for the best results. Due to the way they handled this product, some had an unpleasant experience. Color consistency is not an issue with this type of grout, unlike cement grout, which can vary in color from batch to batch.

It’s also easy to remove the grout residue. White vinegar or the cleaning products included in the kit can be used to clean. To shorten the cure period of any leftover grout, place it in a zip-top bag and store it in the freezer. It’ll be fine for a week or so. Be sure to flatten and squeeze the zip lock bag completely before closing it.

2. PERMA TILE GROUT WATERPROOF TILE GROUT

Pros:

• Grouting for ceramic tile that is both high-quality and waterproof
• It’s made to last and will not wear out quickly.
• It’s simple to put together, making it ideal for novices
• It has a nice consistency.
• A short period of time is required for drying.
• It is simple to remove with a damp cloth.

Cons:

• There are no comprehensive instructions included in the box.
• It is more expensive than other types of grout.

Sebring Tip:

Standard cement-based grout can be simply colored using this product. After you’ve completed the tile job, you don’t need to seal it with a sealant. About 40 square feet can be grouted using the 5 lb. box. You’ll only need a moist cloth to clean up the mess.

This grout is impressive, however we think it’s a touch pricey in comparison to other grouts of the same type. Because it doesn’t necessitate the purchase of a sealant, you can save money by utilizing this tile grout.

Grout for Perma-Tile The only thing that needs to be added to Waterproof Tile Grout is water. Upon drying, it will remain impervious to water as well as chipping and stains. Your wall or tile will match your new waterproof and non-shrinking decal.

3. CUSTOM PMG381QT 1-QUART SIMPLE PREMIUM GROUT

Pros:

• This pre-mixed tile grout is ready to use right out of the container. Adding water is unnecessary.
• There is less chance of mixing mistakes with this pre-mixed grout because of its good consistency.
• Touch-ups are a breeze with this tool. It is possible to use a portion of the product and save the rest for later use.
• It is available in a variety of hues.

Cons:

• There is insufficient protection provided by the packing. As a result, the grout may fail to work properly if it spills or becomes unsealed.

Sebring Tip:

This pre-mixed, ready-to-apply tile grout can be used right away after purchase. It has a number of advantages, including stain resistance and the ability to withstand shrinkage and cracking without breaking.

For re-grouting, this grout can be used with joint sizes between 1/16 and 12 inches. This grout doesn’t require mixing, and it’s likely to be a fuss-free, easy-to-use product. Mosaic, porcelain quarry, stone, marble and granite tiles can all be laid on shower walls and floors by using this tool.

In addition to being weather resistant, this grout can be put over old grout for a polished look. The bundle has a maximum coverage area of 34 square feet.

This grout does stain porous stone, as we discovered. If your tile is permeable, this could ruin its appearance. This may not be the best application for this particular tile grout. Even on the most delicate of surfaces, scratching can occur. In fact, if you’re using the right tile material, this grout is a breeze to apply, as we discovered.

4. RED DEVIL 0425 PRE-MIXED TILE GROUT REPAIR SQUEEZE TUBE

Pros:

• Small patches of grout can be easily repaired with this ready-to-use grout.
• It goes on easily and soon spreads.
• Soap and water make quick work of the cleanup.

Cons:

• Because this pre-mixed grout sets quickly, you must use it promptly.

Sebring Tip:

Red Devil is frequently referred to as the world’s top grout brand. It has stood out since 1872, when it was first established. The brand was known for producing a unique sort of grout and chemical that was used in the construction industry.

A tubular design is available for this pre-mixed and un-sanded grout. The shape of the tube helps the user apply it in the correct amount without wasting any product. The product is also mold and water resistant, making it easy to use.

This pre-mixed tile grout is ideal for ceramic and mosaic tiles, but it can also be used with stone, wood, and wallboard. In addition, it makes cleaning up a cinch because all you need is water.

5. ELMER’S E873 TILE GROUT

Pros:

• It is resistant to both water and mildew, making it ideal for outdoor use.
• Non-flammable and non-toxic components are used in the product.
• Long-lasting and resistant to breaking and shrinking.

Cons:

• Getting the grout out of the tube might be a challenge.
• It’s available in a single shade of white.

Sebring Tip:

6 oz tube of Elmer’s E873 tile grout In order to fix a leak in a shower, you only need to scrape away some of the old grout. You can either use the tub applicator or your finger to apply the product, depending on your preference. All you need is a moist cloth to get the job done. It takes 12 hours for the product to dry.

If you want to give your bathroom a new look without having to make grout, Elmer’s E873 tile grout is the right choice.

Because this grout is only available in one color, it is the primary drawback. To avoid color clashes, you’d have to paint the entire shower in a single color, which severely restricts your design options.

6. CUSTOM PRODUCTS LINEN NON-SANDED GROUT

Pros:

• Simple, but tough to break
• Many surfaces can be used.
• Grout in a variety of colors

Cons:

• When the temperature falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, this product cannot be utilized.
• For the best protection, seal the grout.

Sebring Tip:

A large area can be covered by this product. When gaps are an eighth of an inch wide or larger, grout can be placed to a 23-square-foot shower. If the gaps are only sixteenths of an inch wide, you may almost double the coverage.

Despite its low cost, this product does not compromise on quality in any way. It has a smooth, lump-free feel since it is built of high-quality cement. Aside from that, the manufacturer is committed to environmental stewardship and is working to achieve LEED v3 certification

7. BOSTIK DIAMOND GROUT DIMENSION

Pros:

• The app is simple to use.
• Designed to durability and resist cracking.
• Ceramic and porcelain tiles, as well as metal and stone tiles, are all acceptable options.

Cons:

• There is no ingredient list provided.

Sebring Tip:

This Bostik Diamond Grout’s urethane and micro-glass components dazzle your glass tiles.

It can even give a 3D effect on translucent ones.

Using this grout is a piece of cake. There are no additives or preservatives in this product, making it ideal for use in moist and humid environments like a shower.

Why Grout Is Important

Many decisions have to be made throughout a renovation project. Tile grout is a common example of a “unloved” or “untouched” item. In fact, grout is just as crucial to tile installations, if not more so, than the actual tiles themselves. It keeps dirt and water out, even if the individual tiles are a tiny bit different in size, and it strengthens the installation’s structural judgment.

The choice of grout is critical. Despite the fact that it is often treated as an afterthought during installation, it is a critical component that is tough to correct if done incorrectly.

How To Choose The Best Shower Tile Grout

You shouldn’t have to worry about finding the best grout for your shower tiles. Aside from color, sanded or unsanded grout and epoxy/cement-based epoxy or cement-based, don’t make the choosing procedure an unnecessarily hard effort.

If you do an internet search for “best shower grout,” you’ll be confronted with a bewildering array of results.

The most important thing to make certain is that your shower’s grout is entirely sealed and water resistant. In light of the foregoing, you have three options:

A cement-based grout and a sealing agent are the two primary materials you’ll be working with.

2. You’ll use an epoxy grout that’s waterproof (extraordinary quality but costly and a lot of work)

Third, a waterproof grout will be used.

Selecting from one of the three options will mostly depend on your budget, your level of expertise, and the size and kind of tiles you intend to use.

Epoxy Versus Cement Grout

Unlike cement grout, epoxy grout is a mixture of epoxy resins and a filler powder, unlike cement grout, which is a cementitious powder blend. When it comes to stain resistance, epoxy grout is a close second only to natural stone.

Unlike epoxy grout, which is waterproof, regular cement grout can absorb water and become stained when wet.

Two separate resins are combined with a filler to make epoxy grout watertight and suitable for use with strong cleaning agents. Cementitious grouts can’t match the bond quality and chemical resilience of epoxy thin sets.

The Benefits of Using Best Shower Tile Grout

Make sure to keep in mind that epoxy grout is more difficult to deal with than standard grout, despite its many advantages. Some people object to the material’s plastic-like appearance. EPOXY grout is more expensive to purchase, and most tilers charge extra for using it instead of ordinary grout.

Outside corners where the tile wraps around a wall, kerb, or shower niche are easy to shape with regular grout. Because epoxy grout takes longer to harden, it is more difficult to achieve the same appearance. Regular grout takes longer to set up than epoxy grout, using a smaller amount of mix. In addition, compared to working with normal grout, this combination takes less time.

In order to remove any remaining resin buildup from your tile surfaces, an acid wash is required when using epoxy grout. There are a couple epoxy grouts in the works that should be suitable for use with glass. It’s common for manufacturers to offer both normal epoxy and a glass epoxy. The filler in the grout is where the two types differ. Glass tile filler is better because it won’t scratch delicate tiles.

Additional Differences

It takes a lot longer to install and remove epoxy grout than ordinary grout, which is another big difference. To purchase, it can cost anywhere from three to five times as much as normal grout. It’s possible that some installers will be hesitant to use epoxy grout because of this. It’s also worth noting that tilers don’t charge per square meter of grout, but rather based on the size of the tile and the estimated size of the area to be tiled.

Grout usage rises linearly with the size of the tile. Grout usage decreases linearly with tile size. As a result, a tiler will typically provide an estimate after inspecting the work and determining the tile’s size.

When To Use Cement or Epoxy Grout

In tiled showers and floors, epoxy grout provides an additional layer of protection against moisture seeping under the tile. An additional application for epoxy grout is backsplash tiling over vanities.

Epoxy grout is preferred by many people because of its consistent hue. Epoxy grout’s color is controlled by the filler, which gives it a uniform appearance. During the cleaning procedure, standard grout can lose its color.

In comparison to ordinary cement grout, no two steps are the same when using epoxy. Epoxy grouting has its own set of procedures and rules, from mixing to application through cleanup.

Ensure that your Bathroom Professional is familiar with the product and its intended use. The price difference between epoxy grout and cement grout is significant, but its waterproofing, staining, and durability advantages are also worth considering.

Best Shower Tile Grout For Your Project

Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision on the best shower tile grout for your next DIY project, so we’ve put together this guide to show you our top five choices.

Conclusion

What a wealth of knowledge you now possess about grout, from the various varieties to the most effective methods of care and cleaning. Choosing the right grout for your project can be a time-consuming process. Take a look at our inventory now!