When it comes to tile installation, most homeowners focus on choosing the perfect tile design, texture, or finish. But there’s another crucial element that often gets overlooked — grout.
Grout is what holds your tile design together, filling the gaps between tiles to create a smooth, finished look while keeping dirt and moisture out. It affects both the durability and appearance of your flooring or walls. Understanding the different types, colors, and maintenance needs of grout will help you keep your tile installations looking beautiful for years.
At Atlanta Tile Install, we make sure every project, from bathrooms to kitchens, includes the perfect grout for long-lasting results.
What Is Tile Grout?
Grout is a mixture of water, cement, sand, and sometimes epoxy that fills the spaces between tiles. It keeps tiles firmly in place, prevents shifting, and seals joints to keep moisture from seeping underneath.
Beyond its functional purpose, grout also enhances design — the right color can make tiles pop or blend seamlessly. Choosing wisely ensures your installation looks intentional and professional.
Main Types of Tile Grout
Different spaces and tiles require specific grout types. Below are the most common varieties used in modern tile installations.
1. Sanded Grout
- Contains fine sand particles for strength and durability.
- Ideal for wider joints (⅛ inch or more), often used on floors and high-traffic areas.
- More resistant to cracking and shrinkage.
Sanded grout is perfect for porcelain or ceramic floor tiles, such as those used in kitchen flooring installations and entryways.
2. Unsanded Grout
- Smooth and sand-free mixture, best for narrow joints (less than ⅛ inch).
- Commonly used on walls, showers, and delicate tiles like glass or polished marble.
- Provides a sleek finish but requires sealing for moisture protection.
You’ll often see unsanded grout in bathroom tile installations and vertical surfaces where precision matters.
3. Epoxy Grout
- Made from resin and hardener instead of cement.
- Resistant to stains, moisture, and chemicals — perfect for kitchens, showers, and outdoor areas.
- Doesn’t require sealing and lasts significantly longer than cement-based grout.
Though more expensive, epoxy grout is ideal for areas that see frequent water exposure, such as shower tile installations or pool tile projects.
4. Furan Grout
- Similar to epoxy but made from alcohol-based polymers.
- Extremely durable and resistant to chemicals, making it ideal for industrial or commercial settings.
- Rarely used in residential projects due to its complex installation and curing process.
Choosing the Right Grout for Your Project
The best grout depends on tile material, spacing, and environment. Here’s a quick guide to help:
| Room/Area | Recommended Grout Type | Key Benefits |
| Kitchen Floor | Sanded or Epoxy | Durable, stain-resistant |
| Bathroom Wall | Unsanded or Epoxy | Smooth finish, moisture-resistant |
| Shower | Epoxy | Waterproof, long-lasting |
| Living Room | Sanded | Withstands heavy traffic |
| Pool Area | Epoxy | Resists chlorine and moisture |
| Fireplace | Sanded | Heat-resistant and strong |
If you’re unsure which is best, our experts at Atlanta Tile Install can assess your project and recommend the ideal combination of tile and grout for durability and design.
Grout Colors: Making the Right Choice
Grout color can completely transform the look of your tiled space. It can either blend in subtly or create bold contrast.
Here are three main design approaches to choosing grout color:
1. Matching Grout
- Creates a seamless, unified look by matching grout color to the tile.
- Ideal for small rooms, as it makes the space appear larger and more continuous.
- Common in minimalist or modern styles.
2. Contrasting Grout
- Makes each tile stand out, highlighting patterns and shapes.
- Works beautifully with geometric or mosaic tiles in kitchens, showers, or accent walls.
- Example: white subway tile with dark gray grout — a timeless, classic combination.
3. Neutral Grout
- Offers flexibility and timelessness, complementing any color palette.
- Perfect if you want to change décor later without redoing tile work.
Whether you’re going for a subtle or bold design, our custom tile design team can help you find the perfect grout color to bring your vision to life.
Proper Grout Maintenance
Even the best grout needs regular care to stay clean and strong. Without maintenance, it can become discolored, stained, or cracked over time.
Follow these key maintenance tips:
1. Seal Your Grout
Most cement-based grouts should be sealed 72 hours after installation and resealed every 1–2 years. Sealing creates a moisture barrier and prevents mold, mildew, and staining.
2. Clean Regularly
- Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft brush.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach—they can erode the grout.
- For tougher stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply, and scrub gently.
Regular cleaning keeps grout bright and prevents buildup in kitchens and bathrooms.
3. Repair Cracks Promptly
If you notice cracking or separation, repair it immediately to prevent water infiltration. Small cracks can be filled with grout caulk or color-matched repair kits.
4. Regrouting When Needed
Over time, grout can wear out—especially in high-traffic or moisture-heavy areas. Regrouting restores strength and appearance without replacing your tiles entirely.
Our tile installation specialists provide professional regrouting services to extend the life of your tile surfaces.
How Grout Affects Design Longevity
Grout isn’t just filler — it’s a key design element that determines how your space ages.
- The right grout type prevents mold, cracking, and fading.
- The right color enhances your aesthetic.
- The right maintenance keeps everything fresh and clean for years.
That’s why professional installation and material selection matter as much as the tiles themselves.
Final Thoughts: The Finishing Touch That Makes All the Difference
Grout might seem like a small detail, but it’s the glue — literally and visually — that completes your tile design. Choosing the right type, color, and maintenance plan ensures your home stays elegant, functional, and protected from the elements.
At Atlanta Tile Install, we bring craftsmanship and attention to detail to every project. Whether it’s bathroom tile installation, kitchen tile work, or flooring installations, our experts ensure your grout looks perfect and performs even better.
Ready to refresh your home with expert tile and grout work? Contact us today or call (678) 981-6192 for a free consultation and let our Atlanta tile specialists help you achieve a stunning, long-lasting finish.
