The most common types of ceramic tile grout
Ceramic tile grout is the material that holds the tiles together, visible between the tiles.
Grout is obtained from a mixture of cement and fine sand, or comprised of acrylic materials such as silicon or others. It is indispensable for any type of ceramic tile, as it fills the space between the tiles and hods them together. Ceramic tile grout can also be water resistant, but most likely water or other liquids will eventually penetrate the joint and reach the backing.
Ceramic tile grout generally divided into three main types: Portland cement based grouts, epoxy based grouts and furan resin grouts. Each of these three categories are based on two basic types: sanded or non-sanded. Sanded grout is required for 1/8″ or larger grout joints, while non-sanded can be used for grout joints smaller than 1/8″. If you want the job to be well done and the final look to be great, choosing the right type of ceramic tile grout is just as important as selecting the tile itself. Also, for a successful installation, you should follow step by step all the instructions of the manufacturer in mixing and applying.
Cement based grouts
The sanded Portland ceramic tile grout is a mixture of cement, fine sand and water. The color of the grout is given by the cement color used, and generally it can only be mixed in white or gray. This sanded grout is made from fine graded sand, Portland cement, water-retentive additives and colored pigments. Sanded ceramic tile grout must be applied on moistened tile, however not damp and with no water puddled in the joint. However, for ceramic tiles non-sanded grout is recommended, to avoid scratching the finished surface.
The non-sanded Portland cement dry-set grout consists of Portland cement, fine fillers, a water-retentive additive and colored pigments. As the name implies, this type of ceramic tile grout is designed for use on dry surfaces. The water retentive additive allows the grout to stay moist until the cement cures properly, because without it the dry tile would wick out the water before the cement can cure. It is designed for easily scratched tiles, with joints from 1/32″ to 1/8″. If you use this type of ceramic tile grout in hot weather, keep the grout as cool as possible. Shade the work area and use cool water, so the grout won’t cure too rapidly.
Epoxy based grouts
This type of ceramic tile grout contains an additional ingredient of Portland cement, but its characteristics are quite similar to the standard Portland cement grouts. Still, the epoxy-based grouts are harder, form greater bonds and are more stain resistant. However, when it comes to resistance to chemicals they’re not necessarily better than standard ones.
Furan grouts
The name of this type of grout comes from an ingredient called furfuryl alcohol, added in the mixture instead of water. It is highly resistant to chemicals, especially acids. However, it’s the most difficult to install, as the tile must be coated with wax prior to grouting and the grout residue must be removed with steam cleaning afterwards. Furan grouts are manufactured in black color only, and are also available in sanded and non-sanded configuration.
The furan and the epoxy-based types of ceramic tile grout are more difficult to install, consequently also more expensive than standard Portland cement grouts. There is a wide variety of commercially prepared ceramic tile grout, available from numerous manufacturers. Remember that the right grout is as important as the tile itself, so it wouldn’t hurt to consult a professional before buying your cecramic tile grout.