Grout is a material used to fill tile cracks, joints and gaps when regrouting tile. It is commonly used during construction for brickwork or masonry. Grout is usually made up of cement mixed with water and sometimes sand. There are different types of grout that are used to install different types of materials and tile work.
Learn more about what these are and with what types of jobs each one should be used with below.
Types of Grout
Sanded Grout
Sanded grout is simply the basic grout mixture combined with silica sand. It is composed of cement-based mortar, water and some sand. The addition of sand in the mix is meant to strengthen the grout and make it durable enough to be able to support and withstand the weight of tiles and other materials. It is recommended for installing heavy tiles made from glass, stone or marble. It is also the best material for use in joints that are wider than 1/8 inch.
Unsanded Grout
Unsanded or non-sanded grout is composed of cement and water. It is cement-based and thus will later harden to become durable but it does not have the same strength as sanded grout. As such, it is best used for tilework where the joints or gaps are less than 1/8 inch. It is also a good choice for crafts such as mosaics because it is relatively easy to mix and apply. Since it is relatively lighter than the sanded variety, it is the better choice for vertical surfaces because it sticks better.
Cement-based Grout
Cement-based grout is the most basic form of grouting material and is easily one of the most popularly used types of grout. It can either be unsanded or sanded. Most mixes are polymer-modified in order to make them more durable and less susceptible to cracking.
You will have to choose between several types of grout to find the right one for the job.
Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout is considered as the best choice for most tile work because of its adaptability. It is not only durable, strong and sturdy, it also resists stain and moisture quite well. Epoxy grout is made up of a chemical base and an activator. In some applications, grout color may be added for aesthetics. Once the epoxy grout is prepared, it becomes sticky due to a chemical-based reaction that occurs in the mix. It hardens fast, so if you are using epoxy grout, be prepared to work quickly.
Epoxy grout is an excellent choice for ceramic, porcelain and quarry tiles. Since it resists moisture and is non-porous, it is also a great choice for countertops. Epoxy-based grouting works best for kitchens, showers, bathrooms and saunas.
Furan resin
Furan resin contains furfuryl alcohol instead of water. This combination makes it highly resistant to abrasive chemicals such as acids. It is rather a challenge to work with, so it is not exactly the type of grouting material recommended for beginners.
Related Posts
1. Mixing Grout: An Easy Guide to Doing it Right
2. Supplies Checklist For Regrouting Tile
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