The real strengths of epoxy grout are water absorption, strength, and chemical resistance. Epoxy absorbs about 50-times less water than traditional cement grouts, has double the strength, and chemical resistance that stands up to even the toughest environments.
Sanded grout is the preferred grout for tile floors.
Sanded grout is more durable than unsanded grout, which makes it the best grout for floor tiles. The sand filler in the grout creates a tougher bond and shrinks less than unsanded grout when it dries.
Wall or Floor Tiles
Usually, wall grout is finer and is used for 2/3mm joints. Meanwhile, floor grout is coarser and can therefore be used for wider joints. There are also some grouts, such as the Bal Wide Joint Grey Tiling Grout that are suitable for both wall and floors, depending on your tile joint size.
GROUT JOINT SIZE FOR LARGE AND HEAVY TILE
All ceramic and stone large format tile (greater than 15”) requires a minimum 1/16” grout joint according to ANSI. Daltile recommends that large tiles have a 1/8” or 3/16” minimum grout joint for the most successful installation.
Because sand has a significant grit, there is a higher chance of it scratching delicate tiles such as marble or limestone. Sanded grout is best used with floor tiles, ceramic tiles, natural stone tiles, and porcelain tiles.
While you can easily work unsanded grout into a large grout joint, it won't perform well in joints larger than 1/8 inch, as it has a tendency to crack and shrink. Sanded grout is a superior option for joints ranging from 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch.
Good to Know: Unsanded grout does not contain sand and is a less common choice in tile applications. Although it's not as porous as sanded grout and therefore less permeable to water, it's still recommended to finish with a sealer especially in wet or high-traffic areas.
SHOULD GROUT BE DARKER OR LIGHTER THAN THE TILE? This is somewhat a matter of taste, but if you have a variegated tile with several shades, you have several options to choose from for grout color. Choosing lighter colors blends your design together. Darker colors create a more dramatic effect.
Grout width material recommendations
Sanded Grout: Generally 1/8” to 5/8” inch can be used. Unsanded Grout: Generally 1/16” to 1/8” inch can be used. All-In-One: Generally 1/16” to 3/4” inch can be used.
According to the TCNA, the grout width can vary depending upon the size of the tile. Many stone and tile manufacturers suggest that grout joints be no less than 1/8″ to 3/16″.
Sanded grout is the go-to choice for most interior flooring installations. This is because it is more durable than unsanded grout, can handle foot traffic, and is usable for larger tile joints.
EPOXY GROUT
Because of its durability, it has proven itself to be a worthy product over the years and an excellent option for bathroom grout.
Grout is a cement-based product mixed with chemicals, water, and in many cases sand. Portland cement based grouts are particularly porous. Porous grouts attract water, dirt, oils, etc. While the tile industry does not require sealing, it is always recommended, especially in wet or high-traffic areas.
Epoxy grout is resistant to cracking, shrinking and discolouration, making it ideal for applying in wet areas, such as showers. It's also highly resistant to the harsh chemicals found in cleaning products.
You can also determine what grout you should use based on the width of the grout line that needs to be filled. Sanded grout is best for grout lines that range from 1/8 to ½ inch. Unsanded grout is a better option for lines that range from 1/16 to 1/8 inch.
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.
Sanded grout is more durable and stable for interior flooring. Unsanded grout can be prone to severe cracking when pressure is applied to it. Use unsanded grout for walls, countertops, and bathtub enclosures because it clings to fine surfaces and hairline grout lines better than sanded grout.
A large tile, such as 12x24”, usually requires a 3/16” grout line, so it's best to check the manufacturer's recommendations to see how small you can go. Pressed tiles with a 1/16" grout line.
Non-sanded grout is smooth textured grout that will not scratch tile. Therefore, any homeowner that has highly polished stone such as marble, or a honed stone, will want to choose an unsanded grout. Non-sanded grout is best used for vertical tile such as in the bathroom and showers.
The grout color that's easiest to keep clean is likely to be a neutral shade such as a gray, or a tone of beige. These are super-practical choices for both kitchen and bathroom tile, and will demand less maintenance to stay looking good as new.
If you're looking to consider a grout colour for its practicality, remember that light neutral-coloured grouts in greys, beiges and browns is always a safe bet in bathrooms or kitchens that are likely to get grubby over time. The lighter the grout the more regular maintenance it will need.
Pro tip: Darker grout is appreciated for its ability to hide dirt better than lighter-toned grout in between cleanings. This can be something to consider if you're using your tile for flooring in a heavily trafficked area, or for an application that is exposed to food and grease, such as a kitchen backsplash.
Grout is applied to fill gaps or as reinforcement for certain structures. Before wiping it, let it set for around 15 to 30 minutes.
Unsanded grout is the other type of cementitious grout. And, like sanded grout, unsanded grout typically takes up to a full 72 hours to cure. You'll also need to apply a penetrating sealer when using unsanded grout in a bathroom.
Epoxy grout is also the most expensive grout choice, however, it doesn't need a sealer, which can save time and money in the long run.