What Is Grout?
Grout is a material used to fill the joints between tiles when installing a tile floor, wall, or countertop. This type of filling material helps provide a protective seal that pads and protects the tiles from damage.
Types of GroutÂ
- Cement Grout: Cement grout is one of the most commonly used types of grout, typically used in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is a concern. This type of grout is a mixture of cement and water, and typically comes premixed, meaning no mixing is required prior to using it.
- Epoxy Grout: Epoxy grout is another popular choice and is typically used in commercial applications because of its durability. It is made of an epoxy-resin and filler powder and also must be mixed prior to use.
- Sanded Grout: Sanded grout is a mixture of cement, sand, and water and is usually used for tiling projects in areas where a thicker grout is needed such as high traffic areas or natural stone tile.
Installing Grout
Installing grout is relatively simply and can be done by most homeowners. If premixed, all you have to do is pour the grout into a bucket, add water, and mix with a margin trowel until the mix has a paste-like consistency. You can then use a bucket, float, or trowel to apply the grout. Be sure to trowel the grout into the joints between the tile at a 45-degree angle and remove any excess grout. Finally, you’ll need to wait for the grout to set and use a damp sponge to wipe off any haze left from the grout.
Benefits of Grout
- Durability: Grout is designed to be durable and is can easily withstand heavy wear and tear.
- Protection: Grout provides a protective seal that helps pad and protect your tiles from potential damage.
- Water Resistance: By using the right type of grout, you can help ensure a water-resistant bond between the tiles and grout, which helps protect against water damage.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to seal grout?
A: If using cement grout, it’s recommended that you seal the grout after it has been applied. This helps to protect the grout from moisture and staining, and will also help to keep it looking cleaner for longer.
Q: How long do I need to cure the grout before applying sealer?
A: Generally, you’ll want to wait 4-8 hours before applying a sealer to the grout.
Q: How do I remove grout?
A: If you find the need to remove grout, you can use a grout saw or a utility knife to scrape away the excess grout. For tougher grout removal, you may need to use a chemical remover.
Examples
Sanded Grout: Sanded grout is typically used for tiling projects in areas where a thicker grout is needed and is also versatile enough to be used with any tile size, shape, or color. This type of grout is a mixture of cement, sand, and water and is perfect for high-traffic areas or even natural stone tiles.
Epoxy Grout: Epoxy grout is a popular choice for tiling projects in commercial applications due to its durability and resilience. This type of grout is made of an epoxy-resin and filler powder and must be mixed prior to use to create a paste that can then be applied to the tile joints.
