Uses and Application of Grouting in Tile Work

Having earned Air Force Enlisted Aide of the Year recognition, Chief Master Sergeant Roy Bowser Jr. (Retired) leads a business providing services as an independent claims adjuster. A fitness and golf enthusiast, Sergeant Roy Bowser Jr. also enjoys working on around-the-home DIY projects in his free time.

As many types of flooring or wall projects involve tile or stone, grouting is often involved. A filler material, grout is applied after stone or tile has been set and is traditionally a powdered mixture of lime, cement, and pigment. After being combined with water, it is carefully applied between the tiles and left to cure, dry, and harden.

One thing to keep in mind is that, when the grout joint is more than 1/8 of an inch wide, a sanded grout must often be used. This prevents shrinkage during the curing process and ensures that the grout fills the entire joint. Sanded grout is most commonly used with countertops, walls, and tubs. In situations where polished natural stones such as marble are installed, scratching the tile surface presents a risk, and unsanded grout may be preferable.

Another more expensive option is epoxy grout, which is non-porous and does not require sealing. Less prone to cracking and excellent at inhibiting bacteria, epoxy grout is ideal for outdoor decks and patios, pool tile, and countertops that receive significant use.