Know Your Grout
Congratulations, you have picked your tile! But, have you thought about grout? Picking grout is sometimes overlooked in the design process, but the decision can change the overall look of the product dramatically. There are three common attitudes when it comes to selecting grout: match the tile, contrast the tile, or go for a neutral colour. Take as much time and consideration in picking your grout as you do your tile.
1. Matching the tile
If you are looking for less noticeable grout lines, go with a shade that matches the overall colour of your tile. This choice can tie together the entire job! The two best tiles with this option are solid colour and natural stone. Solid coloured tile and matching grout create a uniform look. Placing natural stone with matching grout showcases the uniqueness of each stone, as the grout fades away.
2. Create Contrast
If you are doing a pattern (like herringbone), or have a geometric shaped tile, selecting a contrasting grout colour is often your best option. Showcase the pattern by defining it with a visible grout colour. A recent trend is a simple, white subway tiles in a brick pattern with dark grout. As a bonus, there are those who feel that a darker grout hides dirt better!
3. The Neutral Choice 
Neutral Taupe Grout 
Netural Cream Grout 
Neutral Beige Grout 
If you are looking for a simple solution to picking grout, you can always go with a fail-proof neutral. Picking a beige, grey, or taupe might be your best option for mass appeal.
Some other things to consider when picking your grout is what and where you are grouting. If you are grouting the floor of a high traffic area, you may want to stay away from white, as it can darken over time and look dingy; however, if white is the only way to go, seal it with a good, penetrating sealer like Dry-Treat’s StainProof, which will repel stains and make clean up easy. Also, use Dry Treat’s Oxy-Klenza to give your grout a deep clean and revive the bright white.
If you are grouting with a dark colour in an area with lots of natural sunlight, the grout may fade. If this does happen, you can always refresh your grout with a grout refresh product.
Are you grouting in a heavy-use kitchen? You can use Mapei’s Fusion pre-mixed grout, which is helpful at preventing staining; however, this option is more pricey than the unmixed grout.
Are you grouting glass, stainless steel tile, or a product prone to scratches? Then you will want to use a non-sanded grout. This product won’t have the same abrasion that causes surface scratches.
Now you have all the knowledge you need to pick your grout and finish off your project successfully!
If you have any more questions or concerns, please come in or call one of our educated sales associates at Tile and Stone Source.