Choosing the right grout for your tiles

Used to fill in the gaps between tiles, grout has both a practical and an aesthetic purpose – and depending on the type of tiling you have, this will also influence the grout you choose to go with it. With this in mind, the following blog will offer some tips on how to go about selecting what you need for your project, so read to the end to find out more.

There are various factors to consider when choosing grouting for your tiles.

Factors to consider when choosing grouting

When it comes to grouting, there are various things to bear in mind to ensure that you use the one which will best complement your tiles and create the right aesthetic. Choosing the right type of grout will also give your tiles more longevity as pairing them with the most appropriate grout will make sure they’re as secure as possible.

Factors to consider include:

Tile type: Different types of tiles require different types of grouts. For example, natural stone tiles may require a non-sanded grout to prevent scratching the surface, while larger gaps between tiles may benefit more from using sanded grout to ensure adequate adhesion.

Grout colour: The colour of your grouting is another key factor to consider as you can create different aesthetics depending on the tone you go for. Matching your grout to your tiles is a great way to create a more seamless look and deliver cohesion – or you might prefer to opt for a contrasting colour to make your tiles and/or grout ‘pop’. This can add character and visual interest to your interior.

The colour of your grout will also impact upon cleaning and the overall appearance of your tiles, as lighter grouting, for instance, will show up dirt and grime more easily.

Opting for a colour of grout which contrasts with the tile tone can create added visual interest.

Grout type: Grout is available in various different compositions, including cement-based, epoxy and urethane. Cement-based grout is the most common and affordable option, so is suitable for most applications, while epoxy grout is more durable and resistant to stains and water, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. Urethane grout, on the other hand, offers similar benefits to epoxy but is easier to work with, which might be something which appeals to you.

Grout sealer: Depending on the type of grout you choose, you may need to apply a sealant to protect it from stains and moisture. Epoxy and urethane grouts are generally more resistant to stains and don't require sealing, whereas cement-based grouts may benefit from sealing every few years.

Joint size: The width of the joints between tiles will determine whether you need sanded or non-sanded grout. Sanded grout is typically used for joints wider than 1/8 inch, while non-sanded grout is suitable for narrower joints.

Location and use: Consider the location where the tiles will be installed and their intended use. For high-traffic areas or areas prone to moisture, such as showers and floors, you'll want a durable and water-resistant grout.

Manufacturer recommendations: Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for both the tiles and the grout that you use as they may have specific guidelines regarding which grout is best suited for their tiles.

Buy quality grouting at Tileshack

If you need grout for your tiles then you’ll find everything you need at Tileshack – including adhesives and tiling accessories, as well as an extensive selection of tiles. Our expert team will also be happy to assist you with any queries and can recommend grouting to go with different tiles.

Whether you’re updating your bathroom and want a quick refresh, or are working on a larger project, you’ll find what you need at Tileshack.

To view our full range of tiles, visit Tileshack.com and if you have any queries, just email us at info@bathshack.com, call us on (028) 9077 0188 or use our online chat.