Although similar, there’s a difference between mortar and tile setting grout. Mortar is thicker and used for laying bricks or stones. Grout is thinner and used as joint filler between tiles. There are several different types of grout. Read on to find the best grout for your next DIY project.
Different Types of Grout
The most common types of grout are epoxy, sanded and unsanded.
Epoxy grout is made of resins, silica fillers, pigments and hardener.
Sanded and unsanded grouts are cementitious grouts. This means their main component is cement. Sanded and unsanded grouts can be used for almost any tiling project. However, they dry slowly. Give them time to cure and develop maximum strength and durability. Here’s some things to keep in mind when choosing grout:
- Appears and feels gritty.
- Contains large grains of sand to bond grout and prevent cracking.
- Is best for grout seams 1/8-inch or wider.
- Is not recommended for use in seams thinner than 1/8-inch. Sand particles can fill too much width and weaken the structure.
- Shrinks insignificantly as it dries.
Unsanded Grout (non-sanded grout or wall grout):
- Contains very fine mineral particles.
- Has no noticeable grit and a smoother texture than sanded.
- Works best for narrow seams 1/6-inch to 1/8-inch wide.
- Is not recommended in seams wider than 1/8-inch. Unsanded grout tends to crack.
- Shrinks noticeably as it dries.
Epoxy Grout:
- Is waterproof and less porous than cementitious grouts.
- Works well for seams wider than 1/8-inch.
- Does not need to be sealed.
How to Choose Grout
The grout you select will vary based on what tile you’re using and where you’re installing it. Below are facts to consider, especially if you’re choosing between sanded vs. unsanded grout:
Sanded Grout is:
- Highly durable and stable enough to stand up to pressure.
- Ideal for interior flooring projects, especially high-traffic areas.
- Gritty and may scratch or scuff matte tile, stone or polished tile.
- The most affordable option for DIY projects.
Unsanded Grout is:
- Stickier and easier to work with than sanded grout.
- Perfect for tiling on walls or vertical surfaces.
- Smooth and won't scratch soft, smooth or polished tile and stone.
Epoxy Grout is:
- Waterproof, durable, stain- and shrink-resistant.
- The best grout for a backsplash, shower surround and other surfaces susceptible to moisture or stains.
- Ideal for use with unglazed and other tiles.
- Quick drying, making it more difficult to work with.
- Prone to yellowing when exposed to sunlight.
Grout with Special Features
Epoxy and other types of grouts can have special features that make them low maintenance, easy to change or looking new.
- Pre-colored grouts come in a variety of shades to match or complement tile. They usually also resist stains and fading.
- Mold or mildew resistant grouts contain anti-fungal or antimicrobial additives, making them easier to maintain.
- Moisture resistant grouts have various levels of polymers that slow or prevent the water penetration.
- No sealing required grout contains additives that can stop moisture and stains.
- High-performance cement grouts set quicker and are more durable than standard cement grouts, but also more expensive.
Grout Maintenance Tips
Prevention is the best cure for grout problems. Since cement grouts are especially porous, they can stain and are easily damaged by water. Make sure to use a penetrating grout sealer as soon as you finish installing your tile. Reseal existing sanded or unsanded grout every two years or so.
Also follow manufacturer's instructions and allow the grout to dry, or cure, for the appropriate time before use. Typically the time is 72 hours. Wait about a week before exposing it to moisture.
Keeping your grout free from mildew, mold and cracks requires regular maintenance and care. Wipe up any spills quickly and spot clean stains. Although epoxy grouts can often handle harsh cleaning chemicals, it’s generally best to avoid them for every type of grout. Harsh cleaners can crack or cause grout to break down.
You're ready to tackle any tile project now that you understand the differenences between grout types. When you're ready to tackle your next project, check out colors and types on The Home Depot Mobile App. And remember, The Home Depot delivers online orders when and where you need them.