GROUT GUIDE
Grout can make a world of difference in the aesthetic of your tile installation. During tile selection for a project, it is easy to get lost in the beauty of the tile, focusing on the color, pattern, or finish. However, that single tile might be beautiful alone, but when installed side by side to itself, and the selection of the grout surrounding it, a whole new aesthetic can appear.
There are a few main considerations and decisions to make when selecting your grout. Let’s chat about it!
Grout Color: Matching your grout color to your tile color will give a more monolithic aesthetic, while selecting a contrasting grout color will accent the tile shape and read more as a pattern. It is fascinating to see how different tile installations can look simply by the color of the grout you select. Also consider the cleanability of your color, white grout in a shower or high traffic area does best when it is sealed and cleaned often to help avoid staining from mold and mildew. We caution away from white grout on floors, since dirt is just part of the gig. Selecting a mid-tone to darker color in high traffic or hard-to-clean areas can look better, although we still recommend frequent cleanings!
Functional Properties:
For installations in wet areas, it is recommended to use an epoxy grout. The properties of this grout will fair better with exposure to water, and will keep your installation functioning properly for longer.
Sanded grout is the most durable, but can scratch smooth tiles during installation, and needs to be used on larger grout joints, as it doesn’t fair well in tight joints.
Unsanded grout does best for thin grout lines, such as 1/8” or smaller. Unsanded is recommended for vertical tile installations, but is also often more expensive than sanded grout.
Size of Grout Line: There is a time and a place for all grout line sizes, and they can range from 1/16” to 1/4” thick. Installing tile with a larger grout line can hide mis-alignment of tiles more easily, although it does require more grout to complete the project. Thinner grout lines require more expert installation, but can create a beautiful sleek install that highlights the beauty of the tile. Mosaic tiles are often installed on a mesh backer, which means the grout width is pre-determined and no decisions need to be made.
These are just a few things to consider and decide upon when installing new tile into your home. Of course, always follow the manufacturer recommendations for the grout you select. If you have questions or would like assistance selecting a grout for your tile, you know where to find us! Info@spacestylistsco.com.
Cheers!
