How to choose the right tile grout for my project

Here are some tips to help you choose the right tile grout type and colour

1. Do you want the grout colour to stand out?

When you look at the tiles, do you want the grout lines to have an impact? Then choose a contrasting colour that complements your tiles. The complementary colour for a red tile is green; for a blue tile is orange, and for a yellow tile is purple. When placed next to each other, complementary colors make the other appear brighter, and more intense.

2. Do you want the tile to stand out?

Use a colour grout that contrasts with the tile giving it a ‘checkerboard’ type effect – and your eye will see the tile not the grout.

3. Do you want the tile grout to blend (most common situation).

The tile grout colour should be as close to the tile colour as possible (most common method). Or you choose a colour that is just a shade lighter / darker from the tile.

Choosing a dark grout with a light tile or a light grout with a dark tile will emphasize the geometric pattern of the layout.

4. Grout colours and cleaning

• Lighter grout colours are more difficult to clean (dirt / dust etc shows up more easily).
• Grey colours, light brown and tans are easier to clean, and the colour does not fade away quickly. Grey colour is a neutral colour and also looks great with terracotta tiles.
• Grout colours like red, green and black are harder to clean. They may need a mild acid base cleaner.

5. Small vs Large Joints

If joints are small, use unsanded grout (in most cases however sanded can also be used). For large joints use sanded grout.

6. White Tiles

If you are not using pure white tiles, do not choose pure white grout. Pure white grout is too white and can look unnatural and unpleasant.

7. Epoxy Grout

Epoxy grout does not stain, get mouldy nor does it require sealing, however it is more expensive and more difficult to apply. Before using epoxy, natural stone should be sealed to prevent discoloration.

8. Glass Tiles

Sanded grout can be used with glass tiles.

9. Natural Stone

Some natural stone tiles are water sensitive.  When grouting they may finish with a “picture frame look”. These tiles require a special type of grout (rapid set grout) or a special application method.

10. Sanded, Unsanded & Standard Grout brands

* Ardex, Davco and Laticrete brands have sanded, unsanded and standard grout
* Bostik (ASA), Construction Chemicals, CTA, Kemgrout, Mapei and Polyblend have standard and sanded grouts.

IMAGE BY: Complete Floor Solutions, QLD

Con

Alvaro Constantino, Director 

EURO ABRASIVES Sydney Hardware & Building Supplies