Introduction
When it comes to grouting tiles, one of the biggest decisions is whether to use sanded or unsanded grout. While both types of grout have their advantages and disadvantages, making the right choice depends on the type of tile you’re working with as well as your particular application. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key differences between sanded and unsanded grout, including when to use each, so you can make an informed decision for your tiling project.
What is Grout?
Before we dive into the specifics of sanded vs. unsanded grout, it’s helpful to understand what grout is and why it’s an essential part of any tile installation.
Grout is a cement-based material that is used to fill the spaces between tiles, known as joints or grout lines. It serves several important functions:
- It locks tiles into place and prevents movement or shifting.
- It seals the joints between tiles, preventing moisture from seeping through and causing damage.
- It provides a finished look by neatly filling the grout lines and spaces between tiles.
There are two main categories of grout: sanded and unsanded. The primary difference between them is the presence of sand in the grout mixture.
Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout
What is Sanded Grout?
Sanded grout contains fine sand particles in addition to cement and color pigments. The sand gives sanded grout some important characteristics:
- It provides flexibility and strength to withstand movement or cracking.
- It allows the grout to be applied thickly and hold its shape well, even in wider grout lines.
- It gives the cured grout joints a slightly textured, matte finish.
Sanded grout is suitable for grout lines that are 1/8 inch or wider. It’s most commonly used with ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles that have rougher finishes and wider grout lines.
What is Unsanded Grout?
Unsanded grout is a smooth mixture of cement, color pigments, and polymers. It does not contain sand. The lack of sand allows it to:
- Easily spread and fill narrow grout lines.
- Set up quickly and cure to an ultra-smooth, polished finish.
- Resist shrinking and cracking, even as it dries.
Unsanded grout is best for tiles with grout lines less than 1/8 inch wide. It’s ideal for glossy, polished tiles such as glass, marble, or granite where you want very fine grout lines with a polished finish.
When to Use Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout
Choosing the right type of grout largely depends on the tile you’re working with and the width of the joints. Here are some guidelines:
Use sanded grout for:
- Ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles with rough finishes
- Grout lines 1/8 inch or wider
- Floors and walls
- Most residential and commercial tiling projects
Use unsanded grout for:
- Glass, marble, granite, and other polished tiles
- Grout lines less than 1/8 inch wide
- Walls only (not suitable for floors)
- Showers, tub surrounds, and other wet areas
- Instances when you want ultra-smooth grout lines
Keep in mind that sanded grout should never be used with polished, glossy, or glass tiles as it can scratch their smooth surfaces.
Pros and Cons of Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout
Sanded Grout Pros:
- Provides flexibility and strength for wider grout lines
- Holds its shape well without shrinking or cracking
- Offers good stain resistance
- Creates a slightly textured finish
- Suitable for nearly any tile and environment
Sanded Grout Cons:
- Not recommended for polished or glass tiles
- Difficult to work into very narrow grout lines
- Can scratch smooth tile surfaces if not cleaned properly
- Joints are not as smooth as with unsanded grout
Unsanded Grout Pros:
- Yields an ultra-smooth, polished finish
- Won’t scratch glass or polished tiles
- Easily fills very narrow grout lines
- Resists shrinking or cracking as it cures
- Creates nearly imperceptible grout lines
Unsanded Grout Cons:
- Less flexible and more prone to cracking
- Can’t be used for wider grout lines
- Not as suitable for floors or heavy duty applications
- More difficult to clean fully once stained
Tips for Choosing and Using Grout
- Always follow the tile manufacturer’s recommendation for grout type.
- Consider the look you want—sanded for a slight texture or unsanded for ultra-smooth.
- Measure joint widths carefully to determine if sanded or unsanded is required.
- Use unsanded only for grout lines less than 1/8 inch; go wider and sanded is required.
- When in doubt, choose sanded grout for its flexibility and resistance to cracking.
- Mix and apply grout according to manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
- Seal grout after installation to protect from stains, especially in wet areas.
- Sanded grout can scratch polished tiles, so be extremely careful when cleaning.
Conclusion
When choosing between sanded and unsanded grout, the tile type and joint width are the most important considerations. Sanded grout is more versatile and can be used in nearly any application, while unsanded yields an ultra-smooth finish ideal for polished tiles with very fine grout lines. Carefully follow manufacturer recommendations for best results. With the right grout choice and proper application, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting grout lines that complement your tile perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout
Can I use sanded grout on walls?
Yes, sanded grout can be used on both floors and walls. Its flexibility makes it suitable for grout lines in any orientation.
Is unsanded grout only for walls?
Unsanded grout is only recommended for vertical applications like walls, not floors. Its lack of sand makes it less durable for floor grouting.
What’s the minimum grout line width for sanded grout?
1/8 inch is the minimum recommended grout line width when using sanded grout. Anything narrower can be difficult to work with.
What’s the maximum grout line width for unsanded grout?
Unsanded grout should only be used in grout lines less than 1/8 inch wide. Wider joints require the strength and filling capacity of sanded grout.
Can I use unsanded grout on natural stone tiles?
Unsanded grout can be used with polished natural stone like marble or granite. However, it’s not recommended for more porous, rough stones where sanded grout is a better fit.
How soon can I seal grout after application?
Grout should cure 24-72 hours before sealing to allow any moisture to evaporate. Sealing too soon can trap moisture and cause problems.
Should I seal sanded and unsanded grout?
Yes, sealing is recommended for both sanded and unsanded grout installations. It protects the grout from stains and makes cleaning easier.
What’s the easiest grout type to work with as a DIYer?
Sanded grout is more forgiving and easier for DIYers to mix and apply correctly. Unsanded grout can be tricky in narrow joints and sets up quickly.
Can I use grout caulk instead of grout in narrow spaces?
Yes, flexible grout caulk is a good option for changing plane joints, corners, and very narrow grout lines where standard grout would crack.
