August 31, 2025
Best Grout Types for Different Tile Projects
Learn about the best grout types for tile projects, including sanded, unsanded, epoxy, and acrylic, to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
Learn about the best grout types for tile projects, including sanded, unsanded, epoxy, and acrylic, to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
Choosing the right grout is key to a durable and visually appealing tile project. Different types of grout suit specific needs based on joint width, tile material, moisture levels, and traffic. Here's a quick breakdown:
Each grout type has unique strengths and maintenance requirements. For example, cement-based grouts (sanded, unsanded) need sealing, while epoxy and acrylic options are easier to maintain but cost more upfront. Your choice should align with the project's demands, such as moisture exposure, traffic, and tile type.
Quick Comparison:
| Grout Type | Joint Width | Durability | Best Uses | Maintenance | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanded | 1/8" - 1/2" | Moderate | Floors, outdoor spaces | High (sealing) | $15–$20 (25 lbs.) |
| Unsanded | Up to 1/8" | Moderate | Walls, delicate tiles | High (sealing) | $14–$18 (10 lbs.) |
| Epoxy | Any width | Excellent | Wet areas, heavy traffic | Low | ~$70 (5.5 lbs.) |
| Acrylic | 1/16" - 1/2" | Good | Kitchens, bathrooms | Low | $65–$80 (per gallon) |
For a polished result that lasts, match your grout choice to the specific requirements of your space. If you're in Sacramento, Skyline Tile offers expert advice and services backed by a 5-year warranty.
Sanded grout is a strong, durable option often used in tile installations. Made from Portland cement combined with silica sand, inorganic aggregates, and other chemicals, it creates a solid bond between tiles. The sand particles in the mix interlock to form a structure that resists cracking, making it ideal for wider grout joints.
This grout works best for joints ranging from 1/8 inch to 5/8 inch wide. It can even be used for joints up to 1 inch, though joints wider than 3/8 inch may need extra coarse sand for added strength. The sand particles provide stability, helping the grout maintain its shape and resist stress over time.
The interlocking sand particles form a robust matrix that stands up to stress and prevents cracking, ensuring the grout remains reliable for years.
Sanded grout is versatile, suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects. Its durable composition makes it a great choice for floor and wall tiles, natural stone installations with wider joints, and outdoor spaces like patios or walkways. Additionally, the sand content helps it endure freeze–thaw cycles, a common challenge in exterior settings.
With this understanding of sanded grout, it's easier to see how it compares to unsanded grout, which is better suited for narrower joints. Let’s explore those differences next.
Unsanded grout offers a smooth, sand-free finish that works perfectly for delicate installations and narrow joints. This cement-based mix has a creamy texture that’s gentle on tile surfaces, making it a go-to option for specific types of projects.
Unsanded grout is best suited for joints narrower than 1/8 inch. Its smooth consistency allows it to flow effortlessly into tight spaces, ensuring clean, precise joints without gaps or air pockets. However, it's not ideal for wider joints, as it tends to shrink or crack when stretched beyond its limits.
This makes it an excellent choice for subway tiles, mosaics, and other installations where minimal spacing between tiles is key. Its ability to fill these narrow gaps completely is part of what makes it so effective for such projects.
While unsanded grout forms a strong bond when used in the right settings, it has different durability traits compared to sanded grout. Its sand-free formula makes it more prone to shrinkage in wider joints, but in narrow spaces, it creates a solid, lasting seal.
It performs well in areas with moderate foot traffic and standard moisture levels, such as residential bathrooms and kitchens. However, it’s not the best option for high-traffic commercial spaces or outdoor environments where extreme temperature changes or heavy wear are common.
Unsanded grout shines in interior wall applications, especially in bathrooms and kitchens where ceramic or porcelain tiles are popular. It's also a great match for glass tiles, as its smooth texture prevents scratches on delicate surfaces.
For polished natural stone tiles like marble or travertine, unsanded grout is ideal because it minimizes the risk of surface damage. It’s a solid choice for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom accent walls, and decorative borders, delivering clean and professional-looking results.
Unsanded grout is budget-friendly and relatively easy to maintain. Its smooth surface naturally resists dirt buildup, making routine cleaning simple with standard household cleaners. However, unsealed unsanded grout can absorb moisture and stains over time. To protect its appearance and durability, applying a high-quality grout sealer after installation is essential.
For ongoing care, use pH-neutral cleaners to prevent discoloration and keep the grout looking fresh for years to come.
Epoxy grout stands out as a go-to option for demanding tile installations. Unlike cement-based grouts, this two-part system - made by mixing resin and hardener - creates an incredibly strong, non-porous surface that resists stains, chemicals, and moisture.
One of the standout features of epoxy grout is its ability to work with various joint widths. Thanks to its thick consistency, it can fill both narrow and wide joints without shrinking. This makes it a great choice for everything from delicate mosaic patterns to tiles with larger spacing. Its adaptability contributes to the durability epoxy grout is highly regarded for.
Epoxy grout is built to last, whether in a home or a commercial setting. Its non-porous surface protects against water, oils, and stains, while its chemical resistance ensures it holds up under tough conditions. Additionally, it’s designed to maintain its color and resist wear over time. Because it’s less affected by temperature changes, it performs well in both indoor and outdoor environments. These qualities make it a reliable option for areas that experience heavy use or harsh conditions.
This grout shines in spaces that deal with high moisture or heavy traffic. You’ll commonly find it in swimming pools, commercial kitchens, hospital floors, and industrial facilities due to its ability to handle tough environments. In homes, it’s perfect for shower floors, steam rooms, and kitchen countertops. It pairs well with porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone tiles, but care is needed during installation to avoid leaving a haze on polished surfaces. Its resistance to bacterial growth and ease of cleaning make it a smart choice for areas where hygiene is critical.
While epoxy grout comes with a higher upfront cost, its long lifespan and minimal maintenance make it worth the investment. Its non-porous nature eliminates the need for regular sealing, and cleaning is as simple as using a pH-neutral cleaner. Over time, the durability and low upkeep can make it a cost-effective choice, especially in commercial spaces where frequent grout replacement would be inconvenient and costly.
Acrylic grout stands out as a middle-ground option between traditional cement and epoxy grouts. It's a single-component, premixed solution that delivers a polished finish and is ready to use, making it a popular choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
One of the key strengths of acrylic grout is its ability to withstand wear and tear over time. Its flexibility helps it resist cracking and chipping, even in areas prone to temperature fluctuations or slight structural movement. It also offers better resistance to moisture, mold, mildew, stains, and chemicals compared to cement-based grouts. However, it doesn't quite match the durability of epoxy grout in heavy-duty industrial environments. For most residential and light commercial applications, though, acrylic grout delivers reliable performance. Its combination of durability and flexibility makes it a practical choice for a variety of settings.
Acrylic grout works particularly well in spaces with high moisture or heavy foot traffic, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. That said, it’s not suitable for steam showers or submerged conditions, where epoxy grout is the better option. These qualities make acrylic grout a versatile option for residential projects that require a balance of performance and easy upkeep.
While acrylic grout does come with a higher upfront cost compared to cement-based alternatives, the investment often pays off in reduced maintenance. For instance, using acrylic grout for a backsplash might add an extra $30–$40 to the total cost compared to standard grout. Premixed flexible grouts, including acrylic options, typically range from $65 to $80 per gallon. However, it doesn’t require sealing and naturally resists stains, which simplifies upkeep. To ensure proper curing during installation, clean the area promptly. For everyday maintenance, a non-abrasive cloth and mild detergent are all you need to keep it looking fresh. Acrylic grout is a solid pick for residential projects aiming for low-maintenance, long-lasting results, and it can also be a dependable choice for commercial spaces, depending on the specific requirements.
Let’s break down the key differences between grout types to help you decide which one suits your tile project best. Each option comes with its own perks and challenges, so your choice will depend on your project’s needs, budget, and long-term goals.
Sanded grout is a cost-effective choice for joints wider than 1/8 inch, offering solid structural support. However, it’s prone to staining and cracking over time. Unsanded grout, another affordable option, works well for narrow joints and is gentle on delicate tile surfaces. Both of these cement-based grouts require regular maintenance, like sealing, to protect against moisture and discoloration.
Epoxy grout, on the other hand, is the high-end option. It costs roughly 3–5 times more than traditional cement-based grouts and requires more effort to install. Despite this, many homeowners and contractors prefer epoxy for its unbeatable durability and resistance to water and stains.
Acrylic grout strikes a balance between performance and price. It’s a good choice for residential spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, with homeowners typically spending an extra $30–$40 per backsplash job compared to standard grout.
For a quick overview, here’s a comparison chart:
| Grout Type | Joint Width | Durability | Best Applications | Material Cost Range | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanded | 1/8" - 1/2" | Moderate | Large tiles, floors | $14.98 - $19.48 (25 lb.) | High (requires sealing) |
| Unsanded | Up to 1/8" | Moderate | Walls, delicate surfaces | $13.98 - $18.48 (10 lb.) | High (requires sealing) |
| Epoxy | Any width | Excellent | Wet areas, heavy traffic | $70.95 (5.5 lbs.) | Very Low |
| Acrylic | 1/16" - 1/2" | Good | Kitchens, bathrooms | Varies | Low |
Labor costs are another factor to consider. Regrouting jobs typically allocate 60–80% of the total cost to labor, with hourly rates ranging from $10–$25. For epoxy grout, the more complex installation process can increase labor expenses, but its durability often makes this a worthwhile investment.
If your project involves highly polished tiles with joints wider than 1/8 inch, consider using epoxy unsanded grout. It minimizes the risk of scratching while delivering excellent durability. For discolored but structurally sound grout, a deep cleaning or color sealing might be a more budget-friendly alternative to full regrouting.
High-performance grouts are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and builders for their resistance to shrinkage, water absorption, and overall strength. In areas where moisture or chemical exposure is a concern, epoxy grout has become the go-to option. These trends reflect Skyline Tile’s dedication to meeting California’s rigorous standards for tile installations.
Selecting the right grout for your project is key to achieving a durable and polished finish. Each type of grout serves a specific purpose, and knowing these differences can help you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary frustration.
When deciding, consider factors like joint width, moisture levels, foot traffic, and maintenance requirements. For instance, a bathroom will have different needs compared to a kitchen or an outdoor space. Taking the time to understand these options ensures that your project not only looks professional but also stands the test of time.
If you're in Sacramento and need expert advice or hands-on help, Skyline Tile offers consultations and backs their work with a 5-year workmanship warranty, ensuring your project aligns with California's quality standards.
The main difference between sanded grout and unsanded grout comes down to their texture and how well they work for specific tile projects. Sanded grout includes fine sand, which makes it tougher and better suited for grout joints ranging from 1/8 inch to 5/8 inch. It’s an excellent option for high-traffic areas like floors and for larger tiles where added strength is needed.
Unsanded grout, in contrast, has a smoother finish. It’s ideal for narrow grout joints (1/16 inch to 1/8 inch) and works particularly well on vertical surfaces like walls. It’s also the go-to choice for delicate materials like marble or polished stone since it won’t scratch the surface.
When deciding between the two, think about the joint width, the type of tile, and where the tiles will be installed. For sturdy flooring, sanded grout is your best bet, while unsanded grout is perfect for intricate or more delicate tile installations.
Epoxy grout stands out for its durability and resistance to common issues like stains, cracks, and chemical damage. Its non-porous surface prevents water absorption, making it a top choice for moisture-heavy spaces like showers and kitchens. Unlike cement-based grout, epoxy grout resists shrinking, cracking, or crumbling, ensuring it stays intact for the long haul.
It’s also a great option for high-traffic areas and can handle tough weather conditions, making it versatile for both indoor and outdoor applications. With its ability to retain both its look and strength over time, epoxy grout has become a go-to solution for those seeking a dependable, low-maintenance option.
Acrylic grout isn’t the ideal option for outdoor tile projects. It struggles to withstand harsh weather conditions like rain, intense sunlight, and fluctuating temperatures. For outdoor use, a stronger alternative like epoxy grout is usually a better fit.
When using acrylic grout indoors, maintaining it properly is essential for its durability. Regular cleaning with pH-neutral cleaners and sealing it (if the manufacturer recommends) can go a long way. With consistent care, your grout will stay in good shape and look its best over time.
