So you've finally narrowed down your favorite tile and even chosen the perfect grout color when you're left with a choice you didn't anticipate: sanded vs. unsanded grout. So what's the difference between them, and which is right for you?
ANNIE SCHLECHTER
If you're regrouting existing tile to update the look or because the grout is cracked or dirty, you need to remove the old grout and replace it with new because fresh grout won't adhere to existing grout. If you're doing this, you may want to hire a professional since you'll need to use a high-speed angle grinder, and some tiles can be easily cut or damaged during the process.
Many factors determine whether you should choose sanded vs. unsanded grout, from the surface you're tiling to the type of tile you're using. Even the width of your grout lines affects this decision. Learn the difference between sanded and unsanded grout and which is best for your tile project.
What Is Grout?
Grout is a material that fills the gaps between tiles. After application, grout hardens, connecting the tiles to one another and strengthening the entire tiled surface. Additionally, grout protects the substrate by keeping liquid and other foreign objects from penetrating the gap between the tiles. Grout is sometimes confused for thinset, which is the mortar that holds the tile to the substrate.
What Is Sanded Grout?
In the DIY realm, the term "sanded" might make you think of a material that's been smoothed by a sander. However, sanded grout doesn't refer to the grout being sanded with a sander. Instead, sanded grout is grout that has fine sand added to it. Regarding the cost of sanded vs. unsanded grout, sanded is generally less expensive and can be used in most tile applications.
What Is Unsanded Grout?
Sometimes called non-sanded grout, unsanded grout includes no sand in its makeup. Unsanded grout is more expensive than sanded grout but can be a better choice for specific applications.
Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout: When to Use Which
For most applications, sanded grout will do the job. It's cheaper, stronger, and available in more colors. However, some tile jobs require unsanded grout, so it's worth knowing the key differences between sanded and unsanded grout before purchasing grout for a project.
Sanded Grout Is Best for Floors
Because sanded grout is stronger, denser, and generally more durable than unsanded grout, it's the preferred grout for tile floors. First, tile floors typically have wider joints, which require sanded grout. Second, tile floors encounter much more wear and tear than tile walls, and they benefit from the supplemental strength of the sanded grout.
Sanded Grout Is Best for Wide Grout Lines
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.
For tile joints beyond 3/8 inch, look for grout that's designed for use in wide joints.
Unsanded Grout Is Best for Narrow Grout Lines
Sanded grout is thicker than unsanded grout, making it difficult to work into narrow grout joints. This will not only result in inefficient work but also inconsistent fill, as the thick sanded grout simply won't fill the narrow joint.
While you might be tempted to add more water to sanded grout to make it easier to work into the narrower joints, doing so will lead to slumping and something called "pinholing", which is a result of the excess water evaporating as the grout dries, leaving cavities behind. The grout above the cavities will collapse over time, resulting in visible holes on the grout's surface.
Sanded Grout Cracks Less Than Unsanded Grout
Sanded grout performs better under pressure than unsanded grout, leading to less cracking and shrinking, making sanded grout better for applications like floors or any tile surfaces subject to weight and pressure.
Unsanded Grout is Better for Vertical Surfaces
In most cases, sanded grout can be used on walls, but you'll likely have better results with unsanded grout. Unsanded grout's polymers, along with its lack of sand, make it stickier than sanded grout, helping it stay in vertical grout lines without slumping. This makes it much easier to achieve great results when grouting shower walls and backsplashes.
Unsanded Grout Won't Scratch Tiles
The sand that's added to sanded grout makes the solution coarse. Sanded grout can leave scratches and swirls if used on smooth tiles such as glass, marble, and limestone. Unsanded grout is smooth and doesn't contain the same silica aggregate, making it ideal for scratch-free application around delicate tiles.
Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout Costs
If cost plays a role in deciding between sanded vs. unsanded grout, consider sanded options to save money. On average, unsanded grout is nearly twice the cost of sanded grout. This significant price discrepancy comes down to the makeup of the two materials, as including inexpensive sand as a filler significantly cuts the cost of sanded grout. Additionally, unsanded grout must use more expensive polymers to make up the void left by the sand.
How to Keep Grout in Good Condition
Whether sanded or unsanded, keeping grout in good condition starts with proper application. Pay special attention to the manufacturer's instructions when mixing and applying the grout, and always heed the specified drying and curing times. Unless your grout says otherwise, always seal both unsanded and sanded grout to ensure water cannot penetrate the grout and compromise the substrate.