How To Choose the Best Grout for Tiling

If you are about to embark on a do-it-yourself tiling job in your home you may be confused about what type of grout you are going to need. This guide will take you through the five basic types of grout that are available and will tell you which types are best used where.

Epoxy grout: this type of grout is probably the most expensive one you will come across. The grout itself is wonderful because within it is a resin and a hardener making it very strong, and resistant to penetration, including that which comes from chemical interference. It also adheres very well and resists dings and punctures. It is good for areas that may become wet or that will stay wet for long period of times. It is also good for exterior use. You can use this for most tile types, but it is not, however, recommended for Glazed Wall tile. One word of caution, the consistency is very thick so if you are grouting narrow joints you may want to consider a different type.

Silicone grout: Pre-grouted tile sheets will use silicone grout, but you can also use silicone to grout where corners are tiled or in areas where typical grout application might crack, such as on joints where counter

tops are meeting the wall or back splash. You can use it on Glazed Wall or ceramic tiles, but it should be confined to indoor use. Exterior conditions are too harsh for the silicone to hold up. Silicone is not recommended for use with paver tiles.

Commercial Portland-Cement: This is the best all-around grout for interior and exterior use, although it is not recommended for floor use if you have Glazed Wall tile. The grout is very strong and comes in unsanded or pre-sanded condition. Make sure to follow directions accordingly. One word of caution with this type of grout, once it is applied you must take care to cure the grout for the specified amount of time in the manufacturers instructions (keep the surface moist with a damp cloth or sponge on the walls, or a sponge mop on floors) to prevent it from condensing and cracking. Note as well that it is very important to use a sealer with this type of grout because it is not waterproof, only water resistant.

Latex Portland-Cement: This is the type of grout that mixes traditional grout with liquid latex, not water. It is fantastic for interior and exterior use and can be used with just about any type of tile and for any type of job, interior or exterior.

Dry-set Portland-Cement: This type of grout does not require curing or soaking tiles before laying them. It is good for Glazed Wall or ceramic tiles, can withstand wet conditions and can be used for interior or exterior conditions. The one type of tile this is not recommended for is paver tile.

These are the five basic types of grout that you can get. In today's market there are also many different colors of grout that you can choose. While these look great if chosen correctly, remember to use caution if using them with unglazed tile because they can permanently stain them. Remember too, that the color of the grout when wet will differ from the finished product once it is dry, so go by the color swatch on the grout container, not the color you see while it is wet during application.

If you are using unglazed tiles you want to make sure that you use a tile and grout sealer application when you are finished with installation. Make sure to find the best sealer for the type of work you will be doing (interior, exterior, wet conditions, etc.). If you have any questions, consult a tile dealer or expert prior to purchase.