How To Choose The Right Grout
The most common question we hear all the time is “how do I choose a grout colour for this tile”?. The short answer is that there are no set rules, but we’ve put together some guidelines that will help you make the best choice.
Step 1: Decide on the type of grout
Once you’ve picked your tiles, the next step is to choose the type of grout. There are two types of grout:
Unsanded grout has less sand particles than sanded grout so it is usually used for joints 1/8”and less wide. It has a smooth texture and clings well to vertical surfaces, which makes it useful for grouting ceramic wall tiles. Sanded grout should be used for flooring and wall tile joints wider than 1/8 inch because it resists shrinkage and cracking. The Ultracolor Plus Premium Rapid-Setting is highly recommended before it is less prone to dirt and has excellent durability.
For mosaic tiles, epoxy grouts are gaining popularity as they are almost stain proof making it perfect for kitchen backsplashes or in showers. Epoxy grouts are also popular for swimming pool due to their chemical resistance.
Step 2: Decide if you want your grout to contrast or complement
Once you’ve chosen the type of grout you would like to use, it’s time to look at the grout colour chart which you may find in store. The two different ways in which grout is chosen is to contrast the colour of the tile or to complement the colour of the tile. Contrasting the grout colour with the tile is used to emphasize the shape of the tile or to match a particular interior style. However, most of the time, grouts are chosen to complement the tile to create a modern, seamless finish, such as a grey grout to blend with a grey floor tile.
Step 3: Deciding on the shade
It’s best to use the grout colour chart and place the different swatches against your tile. It is recommended to match the grout as closely as possible to your tile, but it is always best to go one shade lighter than darker.
Things To Avoid:
Grout Discolourations
Discolouration is a chalky appearance of the grout and is mainly caused by incorrect mixing. Grout is sold as a powder and is mixed with water before being applied, so the ratio of the grout to water has to be correct. Another factor of grout discolouration is if too much water is used to clean up. If you notice grout discolouration, try the Mapei Ultracare Concentrated Tile & Grout Cleaner
Grout Cracking
Grout cracking is caused by not using high-quality grout, which have less fillers and more polymer to strengthen which significantly reduces the likelihood of cracking. It is also important to make sure you are tiling onto the right surface as movement underneath tiles will result in cracking even if a high-quality grout is used.