Learn the differences between unsanded and sanded grout to choose the best product for your tiling project.
So what’s the difference between them, and which is right for you?
Even the width of your grout lines affects this decision.
Credit:(L) Edward Gohlich, (R) Meredith Corporation
Learn the difference between sanded and unsanded grout and which is best for your tile project.
What Is Grout?
Grout is a material that fills the gaps between tiles.
After software, grout hardens, connecting the tiles to one another and strengthening the entire tiled surface.
Grout is sometimes confused for thinset, which is the mortar that holds the tile to the substrate.
What Is Sanded Grout?
However, sanded grout doesn’t refer to the grout being sanded with a sander.
Instead, sanded grout is grout that has fine sand added to it.
What Is Unsanded Grout?
Sometimes called non-sanded grout, unsanded grout includes no sand in its makeup.
Unsanded grout is more expensive than sanded grout but can be a better choice for specific applications.
It’s cheaper, stronger, and available in more colors.
First, tile floors typically have wider joints, which require sanded grout.
Sanded grout is a superior option for joints ranging from 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch.
For tile joints beyond 3/8 inch, look for grout that’s designed for use in wide joints.
The grout above the cavities will collapse over time, resulting in visible holes on the grout’s surface.
This makes it much easier to achieve great results when groutingshower wallsand backsplashes.
On average, unsanded grout is nearly twice the cost of sanded grout.
Additionally, unsanded grout must use more expensive polymers to make up the void left by the sand.
