Grout is defined as ,“a hydrous mortar whose consistency allows it to be placed or pumped into small joints or cavities, as between pieces of ceramic clay, slate, and floor tile”. This is according to the dictionaryofconstruction.com. That being said, we should discuss what that means to the homeowner. Here are Three REAL Grout Tips From a Pro
We have heard grout described in many ways. For example, “the concrete between the tiles”, “the line between the stones”, the dirty stuff between my tiles”…etc. etc. Let’s go through three quick very basic points:
- Everyone needs to know the difference between sanded and un-sanded grout. These descriptions are accurate but the usages are different. In general, the wider the joint the more likely that sanded grout will be used. The thinner the joint the more likely that un-sanded grout will be used to fill the joint area. The joint is of course what is between the stones or tiles.
- Color, color, color! Grout in its most basic form is an inconsequential gray color. In many applications, that is totally fine. Take a look at the Mexican terracotta below and the wide gray joints.
Looks great! But the truth is a little bit different. The typical customer wants to see more color options than just gray. Fair enough! But please be careful with colors that might prove a little bit unstable in the mixing process. I once had a client that wanted a Pistachio colored grout. It did not work out so well. Neutral tones around creams and beiges might be a better idea.
- Remember that when it comes to grout and tile or stone, opposites may not attract. In fact it may be a disaster. Here is what I mean. Usually grout is “pushed and pulled” over the face of the tile or stone in the process of filling the joints. What if you are working a cream colored grout over a cream colored tile or stone and a little bit of grout residue remains? In most cases this is “no harm, no foul”. See the image below. On the other hand, what if you have white tile and decide to use the darkest black grout you can find. A true expert would protect the white tile while carefully tooling the black grout into place. However, in the absence of a true super star at work, you might risk looking at the black grout haze on the face of the white tile for a long, long time!
via Ceramica Vogue
To wrap this up, these are three simple basics. There are wonderful tile and stone dealers across America. Go into one of them and the professionals there will help you make informed grout selections! Text me for more help. 305.986.1046. Thanks for reading!
