When it comes to tiling, grout is more than just a finishing touch – it’s a critical component that holds your tiles in place, protects them from damage, and influences the overall appearance of your installation. With several types of grout available, each with its own pros and cons, choosing the right one for your project can be daunting. In this post, we’ll break down the different types of grout and offer some guidance on how to make the best choice for your tile project.

Sanded Grout

Pros:

• Durability: Sanded grout is the go-to option for areas with high foot traffic or where the tiles are subject to heavy wear and tear. The added sand provides strength and resistance to cracking.
• Affordability: Typically, sanded grout is more affordable than other types, making it a popular choice for larger projects.
• Versatility: Sanded grout works well with most tile materials, particularly in installations with wider grout lines (1/8 inch or more).

Cons:

• Not suitable for narrow joints: The coarse texture of sanded grout can make it difficult to use in smaller grout lines (less than 1/8 inch), leading to a rough and uneven finish.
• Can scratch delicate tiles: The abrasive sand particles in this grout can scratch softer tiles like marble, so it’s best avoided for polished or highly sensitive materials.

Best for: Floors, high-traffic areas, and tiles with wider grout joints.

Unsanded Grout

Pros:

• Smooth texture: Unsanded grout is smooth and free of abrasive particles, making it ideal for delicate tiles like marble, limestone, and polished ceramics.
• Perfect for narrow joints: It’s designed for smaller grout lines (less than 1/8 inch), creating a sleek, seamless finish.
• Less shrinkage: Without the sand, unsanded grout experiences less shrinkage, reducing the likelihood of cracks in narrow spaces.

Cons:

• Less durable for larger joints: Unsanded grout is not as strong as sanded grout in wider gaps, making it more prone to cracking when used in larger joints.
• Higher cost: While not excessively expensive, unsanded grout tends to be pricier than sanded grout due to its specialised use.

Best for: Walls, backsplashes, delicate tiles, and areas with narrow grout lines.

Epoxy Grout

Pros:

• Waterproof: Epoxy grout is incredibly resistant to moisture, making it the ideal choice for areas exposed to water, such as showers and pools.
• Stain-resistant: Epoxy grout doesn’t absorb liquids like traditional cement-based grout, so it’s highly resistant to stains, making it perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Durability: Once cured, epoxy grout is incredibly strong, resistant to cracks, and suitable for both interior and exterior applications.

Cons:

• Higher cost: Epoxy grout is more expensive than sanded or unsanded grout, so it might not be the best choice for large-scale projects.
• Difficult application: Installing epoxy grout can be challenging, requiring a skilled hand and careful timing, as it tends to set quickly.
• Limited colour choices: Epoxy grout may not offer as wide a variety of colours as other types, limiting your design options.

Best for: Bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor spaces, and areas prone to moisture and stains.

Furan Grout

Pros:

• Chemical resistance: Furan grout is highly resistant to chemicals, making it a preferred choice for industrial or commercial settings where exposure to harsh substances is common.
• Durability: Like epoxy, furan grout is extremely strong and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Cons:

• Complex installation: Furan grout is notoriously difficult to install and requires professional application due to its precise mixing and handling needs.
• Limited use in residential projects: Because of its industrial nature, furan grout is rarely used in homes and is better suited to commercial or specialised applications.

Best for: Commercial kitchens, laboratories, and industrial spaces exposed to chemicals.

Choosing the Right Grout for Your Project

The type of grout you choose should depend on the specific needs of your tile project. Here are some key considerations to help you make the right choice:

• Tile material: If you’re working with delicate tiles like marble or polished ceramics, opt for unsanded grout to avoid scratching the surface. For tougher materials like porcelain or natural stone, sanded grout is usually the best option.
• Grout line width: For grout lines wider than 1/8 inch, sanded grout provides the strength and durability needed to fill the gaps. For narrower lines, unsanded grout will give you a smooth and seamless finish.
• Moisture exposure: Areas like showers, pools, and kitchens benefit from epoxy grout’s waterproof and stain-resistant properties. While it’s more expensive, the long-term durability makes it a worthwhile investment in these moisture-prone spaces.
• Level of foot traffic: High-traffic areas like floors and entryways need a durable grout that can withstand wear and tear. Sanded grout or epoxy grout is ideal for these spaces.

Lastly, maintaining your grout over time is essential to ensure its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Regular cleaning and sealing (for cement-based grouts) are crucial, and if your grout ever needs refreshing, you can rely on a tile and grout cleaning service to restore its original look and keep your tiles in pristine condition.

Choosing the right grout for your project may seem overwhelming, but with careful consideration of your tile material, joint size, and the environment, you’ll achieve a long-lasting and beautiful result.