Different types of grout for tile
There are four main types of grout that you can use for your tile project. We’ll explain the main differences, pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision on the best grout for your tiling project.
These are the basic types of grout: Sanded, Non-Sanded, Acrylic and Epoxy
Sanded Grout
Sanded grout is the most traditional type of grout that has been around for a long time. It is a cement base with added sand, which gives it a decently strong hold. Sanded grout is usually used for thick grout lines ⅛” inch or larger, up to 1 inch. Sanded grout is porous and needs to be sealed with a sealant in order to protect against moisture and mildew.
Pros: It’s the cheapest type of grout available, it is easy to work with, allows for larger grout joints and most installers have lots of experience with it.
Cons: The downside is that grout colour can be uneven, it is prone to staining and unless you’re using a premium sanded grout*, the abrasive sand can scratch some tile surfaces such as glass, polished stone and stainless steel tile. Sanded grout needs to be sealed, ideally once or twice a year.
Non-Sanded Grout / Unsanded Grout
Unsanded grout, such as Keracolor U, is the same as sanded grout but without the sand. The lack of sand particles allows it to flow between very small grout lines, typically utilized for smaller format tiles. Since it is non-abrasive, it was the best option for delicate tile surfaces such as glass tiles, natural stone tiles, metal tiles and ceramic tiles as it won’t damage the surface during installation.
Pros: Cheap, easier to work with on vertical surfaces such as walls. It allows for finer grout lines, won’t scratch even the most delicate tile surfaces and doesn’t need to be sealed.
Cons: As it cures and the water evaporates, it is prone to discolouration as well as shrinking and cracking due to the lack of aggregate (sand). Unless you’re dealing with a metal/stainless steel tile, it is not recommended, especially when premium sanded grout* is an available alternative.
*Premium Sanded Grout (Fine Aggregate) Alternative
A better replacement for sanded or unsanded grout is a premium sanded grout such as Ultracolor Plus FA from Mapei. It has extremely fine sand particles (FA) that are rounded, making it suitable for thin and thick grout lines (1/16″ to 3/4″). It is safe to use on more types of tile like glass and polished tile without running the risk of scratching. We still don’t recommend it for stainless steel tiles.
This premium alternative is only slightly pricier than conventional sanded and unsanded grout but is still a cost effective option with the added benefits of shrink resistance, increased stain resistance, even colouration and lower water absorption.
Acrylic Grout
Acrylic grout is a professional-grade single component grout that comes premixed out of a bucket and performs much better than sanded grout as it is stain resistant. The premixed formula is easy to work and shares many benefits of epoxy grout (see below). It starts to cure when it’s pulled out the bucket so working in small areas and cleaning as you go is recommended.
We carry Flexcolor CQ and Flexcolor 3D – a translucent grout with an iridescent sparkly finish, typically used for glass tile. Homeowners can expect it cost an extra $30-40 more per backsplash job but it is well worth the upgrade for the added benefits listed below.
Pros: Extremely mold and mildew resistant, stain resistant and crack resistant. It is suitable for most applications and tile surfaces while maintaining high colour consistency. It doesn’t need to be sealed. Ease of use, requires approximately 65% less time to install.
Cons: Very few. More expensive than traditional grout, slightly less stain resistant than epoxy, needs to be cleaned as fast as it is installed. Will scratch stainless steel tile and is not recommended for pebble installations or any grout lines over ½” wide. Not recommended for steam rooms or saunas.
Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout is the king of all grouts. It comes in two or three parts that are mixed together to create a chemical reaction that needs to be applied quickly and in small batches. It’s a bit like pushing soft plastic into grout lines, so it’s a tricky installation that requires experience and good technique. It is best suited for larger grout joints.
Epoxy grout is extremely tough; standing up against water and chemicals. It is the best option for high-traffic areas, industrial and commercial spaces that are exposed to repeated moisture and cleaning chemicals such as showers, steam rooms, kitchens and bathrooms.
Note: We do not stock epoxy grout but can special order it in.
Pros: Superior material that is chemical resistant, stain resistant and impervious to water. It offers colour consistency and is easily cleaned, making it the best choice for light coloured grout. Doesn’t require sealing.
Cons: Most expensive grout, approximately $4 more per square foot. Very difficult to install and increased install time.
In summary, our recommendation for residential projects in order to achieve low maintenance and long-lasting results are:
For commercial spaces depending on level of traffic and application, we recommend:
- #1 Epoxy Grout (needs to be special ordered)
- #2 Acrylic Premixed Grout
Always consult manufacturer’s installation instructions to ensure proper use and installation of grout.