Ceramic grout: how to choose and apply it properly

When planning a ceramic tile project, we generally pay close attention to the choice of tiles, their size, and their color. Yet, one often underestimated element can completely transform the final result: ceramic grout.

Far more than a simple finishing product, grout fills the spaces between the tiles, helps protect the joints from dirt buildup, and plays an important role in the overall appearance of the flooring.

How to choose the right ceramic grout? You must mainly consider the joint width, the type of tiles, the installation location, and the desired aesthetic result. A high-performance cementitious grout is suitable for many residential projects, while certain applications require specialized products, notably epoxy grouts.

Whether you are renovating a bathroom, kitchen, or entryway, discover how to choose the right color, product, and application method.

1. What is ceramic grout used for?

Grout is the material used to fill the spaces between ceramic or porcelain tiles after installation.

It helps create a finished surface, limits the accumulation of debris between the tiles, and allows for a uniform or contrasting appearance.

It also plays an important aesthetic role. Depending on the color chosen, the grout can highlight the shape of the tiles or, conversely, blend into the flooring.

However, it is important to understand that grout does not replace a waterproofing membrane. In a shower or any other area exposed to water, waterproofing must be ensured by an appropriate system installed under the flooring.

2. Sanded or non-sanded grout: what is the difference?

The choice between sanded and non-sanded grout mainly depends on the joint width and the type of surface.

Sanded grout

Traditional sanded grout contains sand particles that contribute to its stability in wider joints.

It is commonly used for floors and certain wall installations.

Its main advantages are its resistance and suitability for wider joints, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Used for joints of 1/8 inch (approximately 3 mm) or wider.

However, you must be careful with delicate tiles: certain abrasive particles can scratch sensitive surfaces.

Non-sanded grout

Non-sanded grout has a finer texture and is traditionally used for narrow joints. Reserved for narrow joints of less than 1/8 inch (generally from 1/16 to 1/8 inch).

It may be suitable for certain wall ceramics and scratch-sensitive materials, subject to the manufacturer's recommendations.

And what about modern variable-joint grouts?

Today, several high-performance products no longer strictly correspond to the traditional distinction between sanded and non-sanded grout.

For example, MAPEI Ultracolor Plus FA uses fine aggregates and can be used for a wide variety of joint widths, according to its technical data sheet.

This is why it is preferable to choose the grout according to the product specifications rather than relying solely on traditional categories.

3. How to choose the color of ceramic grout?

The color of the grout can considerably change the appearance of an installation.

Two projects using exactly the same tiles can produce very different results simply by changing the color of the joints.

Matching grout for a uniform result

Choosing grout with a color close to that of the ceramic allows for a more homogeneous appearance.

This approach is particularly appreciated for large porcelain tiles, stone-look ceramics, and minimalist designs.

A beige grout with beige ceramic, for example, allows you to place more emphasis on the texture of the tile than on the grid of the joints.

Contrasting grout to highlight the tiles

Conversely, a dark grout with white ceramic highlights the shape and layout of the tiles.

This combination is popular for showers, kitchen backsplashes, subway tiles, and certain contemporary designs.

Colored grout can also become a real design element. Pink, green, or blue, it allows you to personalize an installation and create an original result.

Light or dark grout: which one to choose for a bathroom?

Light grout creates a soft and bright atmosphere, while dark grout accentuates patterns and can make certain stains less visible. Neither is automatically more durable: ease of maintenance depends mainly on the grout formulation, the quality of the installation, and the cleaning products used.

You should also know that a very dark grout can show certain soap or mineral deposits from the water.

To make the right choice, always compare the grout samples directly with your ceramic, ideally under the room's lighting.

4. What grout to choose for a bathroom or shower?

In a bathroom, the grout must be adapted to an environment regularly exposed to moisture.

A high-performance cementitious grout may be suitable for several residential installations, while an epoxy grout may be interesting for projects requiring increased resistance to stains and chemicals.

The choice depends notably on the frequency of use, the type of tiles, and maintenance requirements.

In a shower, it is essential to check that the product is approved for the intended application.

You must also distinguish the joints between the tiles from movement joints, notably at changes in plane. The latter generally require an appropriate flexible sealant rather than a rigid grout.

5. What is the difference between thin-set mortar and grout?

These two products are essential to a ceramic installation, but they serve different functions.

The thin-set mortar is used to fix the tiles to the substrate. It is applied before installation, generally using a notched trowel.

The grout, on the other hand, is applied after installation to fill the joints between the tiles.

Thin-set mortar therefore ensures the adhesion of the tiles, while grout completes the finishing of the spaces between them.

These products are not interchangeable.

6. Should ceramic grout be sealed after installation?

Not necessarily. The need to seal grout depends on its composition and the manufacturer's recommendations.

Some traditional cementitious grouts may benefit from an appropriate penetrating sealer to facilitate their maintenance.

Conversely, several modern grouts are formulated to offer better stain resistance without requiring additional sealer.

This is notably the case for certain high-performance products from MAPEI, according to their specifications.

Epoxy grout, for its part, generally does not require a sealer.

Before applying a product, always consult the technical data sheet of the grout used. An unsuitable sealer can change the appearance of the joint or leave residues.

7. How to apply ceramic grout?

A good application is essential to obtain regular and durable joints.

Here are the main steps to follow.

Step 1: Prepare the joints

Before starting, make sure the thin-set mortar has hardened sufficiently according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The joints must be clean, clear, and free of dust or residue.

Step 2: Prepare the grout

For a powder grout, follow precisely the amount of water and mixing time indicated on the packaging.

An excess of water can compromise the product's properties and cause color variations.

Some grouts are also sold pre-mixed and require a different application method.

Step 3: Fill the joints

Using a grout float, apply the product diagonally to the joints to properly fill the spaces.

Then remove the excess by holding the float at an angle.

Step 4: Clean the surface

Respect the cleaning time recommended by the manufacturer.

Use a suitable, slightly damp sponge, without adding too much water.

Cleaning too quickly or too thoroughly can weaken the joints or cause shade differences.

Step 5: Respect the curing time

The time before walking on the floor, cleaning the joints, or exposing the surface to water varies depending on the product.

It is therefore important to follow the manufacturer's instructions rather than applying a universal time.

For more complex installations, calling a professional remains the best way to reduce the risk of errors.

8. Does colored grout yellow or stain over time?

Grout can change appearance over the years, but this does not necessarily mean that its original color has deteriorated.

Soap residue, minerals present in the water, cleaning products, and dirt buildup can change its appearance.

Traditional cementitious grouts can also be more sensitive to stains depending on their porosity.

To preserve the color of your joints, favor cleaners compatible with the product and avoid overly aggressive solutions.

Good ventilation in the bathroom also helps limit conditions favorable to the appearance of surface mold.

9. Can you change the color of existing grout without redoing everything?

Yes, in certain situations, it is possible to recolor existing grout without removing all the joints.

Dyes specially designed for cementitious joints allow you to change their appearance while offering, depending on the product, additional stain protection.

This solution can be interesting when the joints are still solid and in good condition.

However, it is not suitable for all grout formulations.

If the joints are cracked, crumbling, or coming loose, it may be necessary to remove them and regrout.

You must also ensure that the surface is clean and that the recoloring product is compatible with the existing grout.

10. Why choose a quality grout for your project?

Grout represents a small part of the visible surface of a floor or wall, but it considerably influences its appearance and maintenance.

A suitable product can help reduce the risk of stains, facilitate cleaning, and offer a durable finish.

At Plancher 2000, we offer different installation products to accompany your ceramic projects, notably solutions from the MAPEI brand.

Our advisors can help you compare formulations, colors, and technical characteristics according to your type of tiles and your environment.

The advice of our specialists

« We often see customers spend a lot of time choosing their ceramic, then select the grout at the last minute. Yet, the color and quality of the joint can completely change the result. Our recommendation is to choose the grout at the same time as the tiles and always check its compatibility with the installation. »

— Alexandra, ceramic specialist at Plancher 2000

Find your ceramic grout at Plancher 2000

Whether you want to obtain a discreet finish, create a bold contrast, or choose an easy-to-maintain product for your bathroom, the right grout makes all the difference.

Discover our collection of installation products and our ceramic selection.

You can also meet our specialists at our branches in Laval and Longueuil to get advice tailored to your renovation project.