About Grout

Grout is a man-made mixture of sand, cement and water. In most cases, grout comes in a powder and has to be mixed with water. Since it is a concrete product, it is porous. This means it will take special effort to maintain its function. Grout is installed between tiles to give the tile the look of a solid surface. If properly sealed and maintained, grout will not only play a fashion role, but a practical one as well.

Function

The main function of grout is to help hold tiles in place and to seal the space between them. It also acts as a picture frame around the tile, which means its function is to compliment the color and make of the ceramic tile. Its function is greatly reduced if not mixed or applied correctly. Never assume that all grout is the same. Read the manufacturer's instructions on mixing ratio and the grout should go on smooth and cure to provide the needed function.

Types

There are only two types of grout, but they each come in a variety of colors and uses. Sanded grout is used on floors and other places where ceramic tile can be applied. The choice of colors is vast, and with a little ingenuity, can even be transformed into a custom color. Application of sanded grout is the same as unsanded, but the use of unsanded grout is more commonly used with glass tile. Since sand can scratch glass, the grout used for glass tiles cannot have sand in it.

Expert Insight

Grout is a simple product. When choosing grout for tiles on high traffic areas, most will go with a dark color to hide stains that cannot be avoided. However, there is stain-proof grout. Epoxy grout is just what its name implies. Instead of cement, its adhering ability comes from epoxy. This grout sets up really fast and can give the novice a bit of trouble. It is recommended that you practice with it before attempting a project. The more you know about epoxy grout, the less frustration you will encounter.

Features

Any porous material is changeable. This character of grout is both good and bad. It is good because it can be painted. It is not so good because it stains easily. When choosing the grout for your project, you will find that it already comes in many shades and colors. White colored grout is used in many bathrooms. Because of the moisture inherent in bathrooms, there is a constant battle to keep mildew from forming on the grout. Painting the grout will give it that brand new look again.

Effects

Pretty grout lines have a definite effect on the tile and the room where the tile is located. Other uses for grout expand the effects that are possible with grout. Home dcor is one such use. For example, small tiles can be glued to the vase that holds a candle to give it a custom made effect, and also change the effect of the room where the candle is used. In the greenhouse, tabletops can be tiled and custom colored grout gives the outdoors effect.