Yes. Most subway tile has grooves on the sides so you don’t need to use spacers at all because it’s an automatic 1/16″ grout line. When should you use sanded grout? Sanded Grout: Sanded grout is used for joints that are greater than 1/8 inch. It’s best for joints greater than 1/8 inch because it resists cracks from shrinkage.
What is the best grout for a shower?
What is sanded grout?
What bonding material is used to bond tile?
Why is sanded grout so expensive?
Can you use unsanded grout on 1/8 inch grout?
Is sanded grout good for walls?
Can you use unsanded grout on porcelain?
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What kind of grout do you use on subway tile?
Unsanded GroutUnsanded Grout Common uses for this grout include ceramic wall tiles like subway tiles and also natural stone, such as marble, that is usually set with a tight joint. The rule of thumb is if your grout joint is 1/8 inch or smaller then you want to use a non-sanded grout.
When should you not use sanded grout?
Sanded Grout Should Never Be Used For Joints Smaller Than 1/8 Of An Inch. If you try to use sanded grout for a tiling project using joints that are smaller than 1/8 of an inch, you're going to have some serious problems. It's a bad idea to use sanded grout for precision joints that are smaller than 1/8 of an inch.
Can I use sanded grout on subway tile backsplash?
Sanded grout is recommended for grout lines that are wider than ? inch, since it can be difficult to insert sanded grout into very narrow spaces. Unsanded grout is most often used on vertical surfaces, such as a kitchen backsplash.
Can I use sanded grout on ceramic tile?
Sanded grout is recommended for any install using ceramic, porcelain, granites, flamed or brushed marble, terrazzo, rock pebbles or meshed pebbles with a 1/8" or up grout joint. Having this spacing in your tile means there is more room for grout error.
Should I use sanded or unsanded grout on subway tile?
Sanded grout is the preferred grout for tile floors. The sand filler in the grout creates a tougher bond and shrinks less than unsanded grout when it dries. Because sanded grout is stronger than unsanded grout, it's better suited for the wider joints typically found between floor tiles.
How do I know if I need sanded or non sanded grout?
Unsanded grout should be used in joints that are less than 1/8-inch-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.
What color grout is best for white subway tile?
Grey groutGrey grout is a beautiful choice for white tiles as the slight contrast in color helps make the white tile pop. Once you add a color difference between your tile and grout, the shape of the tile is revealed more clearly, and the grout itself forms a pattern out of the negative space.
Can you use sanded grout on wall tile?
While you can use either sanded grout or unsanded grout for vertical tile such as bathroom or shower walls, unsanded grout provides a better working material. It sticks better to vertical surfaces with less of the slump associated with sanded grout.
Will sanded grout scratch polished tile?
While the coarseness of sanded grout may make it a bit more challenging to clean, the sand itself shouldn't scratch most types of ceramic or glass tiles. However, if you have tile with a high-gloss finish, you should spot-test a small amount of the dry grout on a loose tile prior to grouting and installing it.
Is it OK to use sanded grout in a shower?
When it comes to interior flooring, sanded grout is the standard, and it can also be used in a shower, but it might not be the best choice. Unsanded grout is better suited for projects such as shower walls and kitchen backsplashes where the joints are less than 1/8" wide.
Can I use sanded grout on 1/8 joints?
Generally, unsanded grout is used for tile applications with narrower grout joints, from 1/16” to 1/8”. The additional structure of sanded grout is needed for wider grout joints from 1/8” to 5/8” and some even can go as wide as 1”.
What happens if you use sanded grout on glass tile?
It's important to use a nonsanded grout with glass tiles, as sanded grouts can potentially scratch the glass surface. This grout should only be used with grout lines between 1/16" - 1/8" (1.5 mm - 3 mm). If you are considering larger than 1/8" grout lines with your subway tiles consider using a sanded grout.
Should I use sanded grout in a shower?
When it comes to interior flooring, sanded grout is the standard, and it can also be used in a shower, but it might not be the best choice. Unsanded grout is better suited for projects such as shower walls and kitchen backsplashes where the joints are less than 1/8" wide.
Can you use sanded grout on 1/16 joints?
Lugged or self-spaced tile types Grouts with sand or glass will only fill the top 1/32" or less of the joint and it will be difficult or impossible to place the grout and finish it correctly. Grout strength and durability is also compromised as very little grout is actually placed in the joint.
What is the best type of grout to use in a shower?
Epoxy groutEpoxy grout is water resistant and made from resins and fillers that help it work like a sealing adhesive. Epoxy grout is a better choice for showers, kitchen, bathrooms, and other damp areas because it is stain resistant and requires no sealing, unlike cement-based grout.
Does sanded grout scratch porcelain tile?
While the coarseness of sanded grout may make it a bit more challenging to clean, the sand itself shouldn't scratch most types of ceramic or glass tiles. However, if you have tile with a high-gloss finish, you should spot-test a small amount of the dry grout on a loose tile prior to grouting and installing it.
What is the best grout for a shower?
Unsanded grout, sometimes called non-sanded grout, is best for very thin grout lines ranging from 1/8-inch down to 1/16-inch. Unsanded grout is easier to work with than sanded grout on vertical surfaces such as tiled shower walls.
What is sanded grout?
True to its name, sanded grout is a Portland cement-based grout with silica sand, inorganic aggregates, and chemicals. Best for creating wider grout lines, sanded grout should be your primary choice for most tiling applications since sand particles have the ability to lock with each other to form a sturdy joint. Sanded grout is less expensive than unsanded grout since sand is a cheaper filler than the polymers in unsanded grout. Due to its porous nature, sanded grout, unless modified, must be sealed to prevent water from infiltrating to the back of the tile and ruining the substrate.
What bonding material is used to bond tile?
Two distinctly different materials bond tile to its substrate: mortar and grout. Mortar forms the lower bed for the tile and is never again seen after the tile is laid. Mortar is responsible for much of the tilework's structural stability. After the mortar has solidly dried, grout is forced between the tiles with a rubber float drawn diagonally ...
Why is sanded grout so expensive?
The reason sanded grout is so inexpensive is because sand is quite literally dirt-cheap and it forms the bulk of sanded tile grout. With unsanded grout, more expensive polymers must be added to form the content, significantly driving up the cost.
Can you use unsanded grout on 1/8 inch grout?
Because unsanded grout can also be used for 1/8-inch lines, between the two it is recommended that you use sanded grout. Unsanded grout is best for grout lines as wide as 1/8-inch and down to 1/16-inch. The reason unsanded grout is used in this application is that sanded grout will not properly compact into thinner grout lines.
Is sanded grout good for walls?
Sanded grout should be your default choice for general use tiling, such as for flooring and walls. Sanded grout is widely available, has the greatest range of mixed color choices, and reduces grout shrinkage. Think of sanded grout as the default choice grout for everything except for a few outliers that absolutely require unsanded grout. In fact, using unsanded grout as your universal grout for all applications can be detrimental because structurally it does not hold up as well as sanded grout.
Can you use unsanded grout on porcelain?
Unsanded grout is usually recommended for tile that is easily scratched, such as natural stone, glass, and certain porcelains and ceramics. In theory, the sand content in sanded tile grout may damage these surfaces.
What happens when you mix epoxy grout?
It comes in two parts that, when mixed together, begin a chemical reaction that gives epoxy all its best qualities. Mixing also starts the grout setting up so it has to be applied quickly in small batches, especially in the summer in hot temperatures.
What happens when grout is mixed with water?
The polymers are activated once the grout is mixed with water. The chemical reaction increases this grout’s water resistance and strength compared to traditional cement grouts. It also adds abrasion resistance and chemical resistance, which grouts that aren’t high-performance may not offer.
What is sanded grout?
Sanded grout is classified as a cement grout that has 1/8” or larger grit to it. Unsanded grout is a cement grout with less than 1/8” grit.
What is epoxy grout?
Epoxy grout is becoming the new standard in grout. It answers many of the concerns you might have with traditional grout. Epoxy grout must meet standards in water cleanability (how long water can be left on grout before it leaves a residue), shrinkage, sag, bond, strength, thermal shock, and chemical resistance.
Is epoxy grout a single component?
The name "single component" implies that this is an epoxy grout that doesn't require mixing of two elements. However, it is not an epoxy. Technically, it is a urethane or an acrylic-silicone resin grout.
Is high performance grout better than cement grout?
High-performance grout also offers better color consistency and resistance to efforescense (the salty look that sometimes comes along with cement products) that is a common problem with cement grouts.
Is sanded grout good for a house?
Sanded and unsanded grouts are usually sufficient for residential uses but many homeowners and builders are moving completely away from it. There are so many options available now that remove many of the difficulties that come with traditional grout--it's worth it for most people to go with at least a high-performance or epoxy grout.
Why is 1/8" grout better than 1/8" grout?
This is the reason why a 1/8" or smaller grout joint is best because the smaller the space the unsanded grout is going into, the less likely any of these issues will occur.
Why use sanded grout?
Another benefit of using sanded grout in these situations would be the prevention of leaks. Since the grout is more densely packed, it fills the gap fully and dries down to the same fullness allowing the entire space to be sealed preventing water from seeping through and getting underneath the tile.
Can you use unsanded grout with sand?
Using sanded grout already fixes a majority of these issues you could have if you used unsanded. Sanded grout is unsanded grout with the addition of sand. Due to this addition, the grout becomes extremely strong, almost like putting colored cement in-between your tiles. Now that you have a super strong grout, you do not have to worry about cracks ...
What is subway tile?
Subway tile has been around for more than a century and used everywhere, but Metallic Gray subway tile puts a whole new spin on it. Crafted of crystallized glass, the soft gray tiles have a subtle silvery metallic shimmer — just shiny enough to catch the light and reflect it for a sophisticated, decidedly upscale look. Use it for a bathroom or kitchen backsplash; you may love it so much that you’ll want it on the entire room.
What is the best grout for tile?
Sanded Grout is the most commonly used type of tile grout, because it’s well suited to most applications. It contains very fine quartz or silica sand grains; these act as a “filler,” but more importantly, sand gives the grout additional strength. Over time, grout is prone to shrinkage or slight shifting; the sand makes it better at resisting cracks. Sanded grout is recommended for grout lines that are wider than ? inch, since it can be difficult to insert sanded grout into very narrow spaces.
What is Blocki Grigio mosaic?
This creative, unique mosaic is a combination of glass and stone tiles in soft gray shades and is ideal for anyone who craves a sophisticated contemporary aesthetic.
What tile looks good with a parquet pattern?
Porcelain tile that resembles wood has been a big trend of late. Grigio Chevron Mosaic looks superb in a parquet-inspired chevron pattern. The soft gray tones of this backsplash tile complement the pattern, adding a sense of movement without totally dominating the room. It looks great in small backsplashes, and even better expanded over an accent wall.
What color is the Ice subway tile?
With a soft blue-gray shine, Ice Subway is another modern twist on an old favorite. This crystallized glass tile offers just a hint of color, making this elegant backsplash tile an easy mate to all-white kitchens or any other pale color you choose. It’s a minimalist’s dream, with just enough pop to make the room feel finished and welcoming.
Can you use sanded grout on glass tile?
It is also recommended for glass tiles, metal tiles, and polished stone, because sanded grout can scratch them during installation and cleanup. It’s easier to work with, and adheres better to vertical surfaces. Therefore, the most important consideration is the width of your grout lines, which depends upon the type of tile you’ll use.
Can you DIY tile mosaics?
Even the most complex-looking backsplash tile mosaics can be a DIY installation when you have the right tools — and the right grout. Choose your favorite tile first, then consider the ideal spacing for your backsplash designs, and the rest will be a simple matter of following instructions. You’ll be a tiling pro in no time.
What is the best grout for a shower?
Unsanded grout, sometimes called non-sanded grout, is best for very thin grout lines ranging from 1/8-inch down to 1/16-inch. Unsanded grout is easier to work with than sanded grout on vertical surfaces such as tiled shower walls.
What is sanded grout?
True to its name, sanded grout is a Portland cement-based grout with silica sand, inorganic aggregates, and chemicals. Best for creating wider grout lines, sanded grout should be your primary choice for most tiling applications since sand particles have the ability to lock with each other to form a sturdy joint. Sanded grout is less expensive than unsanded grout since sand is a cheaper filler than the polymers in unsanded grout. Due to its porous nature, sanded grout, unless modified, must be sealed to prevent water from infiltrating to the back of the tile and ruining the substrate.
What bonding material is used to bond tile?
Two distinctly different materials bond tile to its substrate: mortar and grout. Mortar forms the lower bed for the tile and is never again seen after the tile is laid. Mortar is responsible for much of the tilework's structural stability. After the mortar has solidly dried, grout is forced between the tiles with a rubber float drawn diagonally ...
Why is sanded grout so expensive?
The reason sanded grout is so inexpensive is because sand is quite literally dirt-cheap and it forms the bulk of sanded tile grout. With unsanded grout, more expensive polymers must be added to form the content, significantly driving up the cost.
Can you use unsanded grout on 1/8 inch grout?
Because unsanded grout can also be used for 1/8-inch lines, between the two it is recommended that you use sanded grout. Unsanded grout is best for grout lines as wide as 1/8-inch and down to 1/16-inch. The reason unsanded grout is used in this application is that sanded grout will not properly compact into thinner grout lines.
Is sanded grout good for walls?
Sanded grout should be your default choice for general use tiling, such as for flooring and walls. Sanded grout is widely available, has the greatest range of mixed color choices, and reduces grout shrinkage. Think of sanded grout as the default choice grout for everything except for a few outliers that absolutely require unsanded grout. In fact, using unsanded grout as your universal grout for all applications can be detrimental because structurally it does not hold up as well as sanded grout.
Can you use unsanded grout on porcelain?
Unsanded grout is usually recommended for tile that is easily scratched, such as natural stone, glass, and certain porcelains and ceramics. In theory, the sand content in sanded tile grout may damage these surfaces.
