Introduction
Grout, often an unsung hero of tile installations, plays a critical role in the overall aesthetic and longevity of your tiled surfaces. It’s the material that fills the spaces between tiles, providing both a structural bond and a finished, polished look. When embarking on a tiling project, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between two primary types of grout: sanded grout and unsanded grout. Understanding the nuances of each type is crucial for achieving a professional and durable result. This article aims to demystify the world of grout, clarifying the differences between sanded grout and unsanded grout and empowering you to select the best option for your specific needs. Making the right choice can prevent cracking, staining, and other issues down the line, ensuring your tile installation remains beautiful and functional for years to come.
What is Sanded Grout?
Sanded grout, as the name suggests, is a cement-based grout that contains added sand particles. This seemingly simple addition has a significant impact on the grout’s properties and suitability for various applications. The inclusion of sand serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it acts as a filler, increasing the volume of the grout and making it more cost-effective to produce. Secondly, and more importantly, the sand provides strength and crack resistance, particularly in wider grout lines. The sand particles interlock, creating a stronger matrix that is better able to withstand the stresses associated with temperature changes, movement, and everyday wear and tear. Sanded grout typically has a textured appearance due to the presence of the sand, which can contribute to the overall aesthetic of the tiled surface.
What is Unsanded Grout?
Unsanded grout, also sometimes referred to as non-sanded grout, is a cement-based grout that does not contain any added sand. This lack of sand gives it distinct characteristics that make it suitable for different types of tile installations. Without the sand particles, unsanded grout has a smoother, more consistent texture and appearance. This makes it ideal for use with delicate tiles that are prone to scratching or with narrow grout lines where sand particles would be too large and difficult to pack effectively. Unsanded grout relies on its cementitious composition for strength and adhesion, making it particularly well-suited for vertical surfaces where its stickier consistency prevents it from slumping during application.
Key Differences Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout
Understanding the key differences between these two types of grout is essential for making an informed decision. These differences stem from their composition and impact various aspects of their performance.
Composition
The most obvious difference is the presence or absence of sand. Sanded grout incorporates sand particles, while unsanded grout is purely cement-based. This difference in composition dictates many of their other characteristics.
Joint Width
This is perhaps the most crucial factor in determining which grout to use. Sanded grout is specifically designed for wider grout lines, generally those measuring one-eighth of an inch or greater. The sand acts as a bulking agent, preventing the grout from shrinking excessively and cracking within these wider spaces. Unsanded grout, on the other hand, is intended for narrow grout lines, typically those less than one-eighth of an inch. Using sanded grout in these narrow gaps would be problematic, as the sand particles would be too large to pack properly, resulting in a weak and uneven grout line.
Durability and Strength
In wider grout lines, sanded grout offers superior durability and resistance to cracking. The sand provides structural support and prevents the grout from shrinking and pulling away from the tile edges. Unsanded grout, when used in excessively wide grout lines, is more susceptible to shrinkage and cracking due to the lack of reinforcement.
Application and Workability
Unsanded grout tends to be easier to apply and work with, especially on delicate surfaces. Its smooth consistency allows it to flow easily into narrow grout lines and minimizes the risk of scratching sensitive tile materials. Sanded grout, due to its abrasive nature, requires more care during application to avoid damaging delicate tiles.
Cost
Generally, sanded grout is less expensive than unsanded grout. This is primarily due to the fact that sand is a relatively inexpensive filler material. However, the cost difference is often marginal and should not be the sole determining factor in your decision. The long-term costs associated with using the wrong grout can far outweigh any initial savings.
When to Use Sanded Grout
Sanded grout is the preferred choice in several specific scenarios. Its inherent strength and crack resistance make it well-suited for situations where durability is paramount.
Wider Grout Lines
This is the most important consideration. If your grout lines are one-eighth of an inch or wider, sanded grout is essential. Using unsanded grout in these situations will almost certainly lead to cracking and grout failure.
Floors
Floors generally experience more stress and wear than walls. The added strength of sanded grout makes it an excellent choice for floor tile installations, providing a durable and long-lasting surface.
High-Traffic Areas
Areas that see a lot of foot traffic, such as entryways, hallways, and kitchens, benefit from the robustness of sanded grout. Its ability to withstand heavy use and resist cracking makes it ideal for these demanding environments.
Certain Tile Types
Some tile types are more durable and less prone to scratching than others. Porcelain tile, for example, is generally more resistant to scratching than softer materials like glass or natural stone. In these cases, sanded grout can be used without significant risk of damage. Consider using sanded grout for projects like kitchen floors, bathroom floors, and patios, where wider grout lines and greater durability are required.
When to Use Unsanded Grout
Unsanded grout is the better choice for installations where narrow grout lines or delicate tile surfaces are involved. Its smooth consistency and non-abrasive nature make it ideal for these applications.
Narrow Grout Lines
If your grout lines are less than one-eighth of an inch, unsanded grout is the only appropriate choice. Sanded grout will not pack properly into these narrow spaces and will likely result in a weak and uneven finish.
Walls
Walls generally experience less stress than floors, making unsanded grout a suitable option. Its adhesive properties help it to stay in place on vertical surfaces without slumping.
Delicate Tiles
Glass, polished stone, ceramic, and other delicate tiles are easily scratched by the abrasive particles in sanded grout. Unsanded grout provides a smooth, non-abrasive alternative that will protect these sensitive surfaces.
Vertical Surfaces
Unsanded grout’s stickier consistency helps it to adhere better to vertical surfaces, preventing it from sagging or running during application. Unsanded grout performs well with projects like shower walls, glass tile backsplashes, and mosaic tile installations, where narrow grout lines and delicate materials are common.
Potential Problems and Solutions
Using the wrong type of grout can lead to a variety of problems. It’s essential to be aware of these potential issues and to take steps to prevent them.
Using Sanded Grout with Narrow Grout Lines
Attempting to use sanded grout in narrow grout lines will likely result in cracking, unevenness, and difficulty filling the gaps completely. The sand particles will prevent the grout from packing tightly, leaving voids and weaknesses.
Using Unsanded Grout with Wide Grout Lines
Using unsanded grout in wide grout lines can lead to excessive shrinkage, cracking, and reduced durability. The grout will be unable to withstand the stresses associated with wider spans, resulting in premature failure.
Color Consistency
Be aware that grout color can sometimes vary between sanded and unsanded versions, even within the same brand and color code. This is due to the presence of sand, which can affect the way the pigment is dispersed. It’s always a good idea to purchase enough grout from the same batch to ensure color consistency throughout your project.
Application Tips
Proper grout application is just as important as choosing the right type of grout. Follow these tips to ensure a successful installation.
Surface Preparation
Thoroughly clean and prepare the tile surface before applying grout. Remove any debris, adhesive residue, or other contaminants that could interfere with the grout’s adhesion.
Mixing
Carefully mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the correct amount of water to achieve a smooth, workable consistency. Avoid adding too much water, as this can weaken the grout.
Application Technique
Use a grout float to apply the grout, working it diagonally across the tile surface and packing it tightly into the grout lines. Be sure to remove any excess grout from the tile surface as you go.
Cleaning
After allowing the grout to set for the recommended time, use a damp sponge to clean the remaining grout haze from the tile surface. Rinse the sponge frequently to avoid spreading the haze.
Sealing Grout
Sealing grout is an essential step in protecting your tile installation from stains, water damage, and mold growth. A good quality sealer will penetrate the grout and create a barrier that repels liquids and prevents contaminants from penetrating the surface.
Importance of Sealing
Grout is porous and susceptible to staining and water absorption. Sealing helps to prevent these problems, extending the life of your tile installation and keeping it looking its best.
Types of Sealers
There are various types of grout sealers available, including penetrating sealers, membrane-forming sealers, and color-enhancing sealers. Choose a sealer that is appropriate for your type of grout and the environment in which it will be used.
Frequency of Sealing
The frequency with which you need to seal your grout will depend on the type of sealer you use and the level of traffic the area receives. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to reseal your grout every one to two years.
Conclusion
Choosing between sanded grout and unsanded grout is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the success and longevity of your tile project. While both types of grout serve the same basic purpose, their distinct characteristics make them suitable for different applications. Remember the most important factor is the width of the grout lines, consider also the type of tile and the location. When in doubt, consult with a tile professional to get expert advice and guidance. With careful planning and the right grout selection, you can achieve a beautiful and durable tile installation that will stand the test of time.
