Things to Consider When Tiling and Grouting

Identify the types of grout that are most ideal for your tile installation to ensure robustness. Many argue on whether to put or not to put grout lines when installing tiles. Professional tilers would not agree as they know how even the smallest grout lines can make a difference to any surface. While new contractors might install tiles without grout thinking it will reduce cost and effort.

Working with grout can indeed be meticulous and take up more time. Among the dangers of groutless tiles is a higher chance of wear and tear. You will notice some parts breaking right after installation, which will add up to your expenses.

So, Why is Grout Necessary For Tile Installation?

Grout is a vital element when installing any sort of tiles. Flooring design without grout lines will look more compact and simple. Though it is a good option to overlook grout lines, below are the reasons why you should consider them:

1. Grout Lines Can Prevent Tile Irregularities

Tile materials may differ in size which does not look well after installation. This is a common struggle wherein even the smallest gap can impact the overall tile design. It causes misalignment and is obvious upon final look.

Masking out the tiny intervals with grout lines will achieve a more pleasing tile design. That being said, the grout helps to cover up tile irregularities in terms of size. It will benefit the installers a lot and would guarantee the best outcome.

2. Grout Lines Make Tile Fit Perfectly

The difference between tile sizes has an impact on the overall installation process. It must be proportional, despite those little discrepancies. Putting a grout line will set the tiles perfectly in place. A gap between tiles is a bit off and may cause injuries when being stepped on. Concealing it with grout enhances the surface’s overall look and safety.  

3. Grout Lines Reduce Dirt

Grout lines also work to prevent debris from settling in between tiles. This is one of the challenges of having tile flooring wherein elements might get in and damage tiles. The spaces between tiles can magnet dirt which could ruin the entire flooring. Plus, it is hard to clean.

Tile cleaning must be done daily after installation to expand its lifespan and also for keeping indoors unsoiled. Homeowners find grout as the best solution for fixing such errors.

4. Grout Lines Eliminates Tile Movement

Another reason why groutless flooring is not ideal is that it makes tiles move. There will be friction against each tile resulting in cracks. Such dangerous contact between tiles can be avoided by adding grout. It keeps tiles intact on the ground for longer periods.

How Does Grout Work?

Part of the tiling job is grouting. It begins by clearing out the joints in between tiles using a stiff knife. Put tape off the edges and trim tiles with a finished look. The tape will shield the tiles from dust caused by grouting.

When the surface is ready, find tools to mix the grout powder in its desired consistency and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Use a grout float to scoop out the formula from the bucket and start grouting. This technique will prevent excess grout to fall off the surface. Spread the grout across the tiles, starting from the walls toward the flooring, until it fills up the joints. 

Then, clean up the excess grout in a serpentine motion for faster results. Use a damp sponge to eliminate grout stains and wipe them with a microfiber towel. Make sure to keep the remaining grout powder in an airtight container for possible touch-ups.

There are two types of grout, including:

1.Sanded Grout

This type of grout is ideal for grout lines larger than ⅛-inch. It is made of fine sand giving off a rough texture. One thing to note when applying sanded grout is the tile material which must not be vulnerable to scratches. It can also resist cracking better than unsanded grout. 

2. Unsanded Grout

Working on a vertical surface makes unsanded grout a better choice. It sticks on grout lines and won’t easily fall off after installation. The material is suitable for soft tiles, such as limestone and marble.

Grouting Tips For Rectified Tiles

It is believed that rectified tiles do not require grout lines. Well, this could be true knowing these tiles come in the same size that won’t appear unprofessional even without grout. Such a material best fits wall and floor tiles, which are cut with better accuracy.

Although the edges are quite perfect and have the same size, this does not guarantee any damage to the tiles. Friction is inevitable between tiles as the number one cause of cracking.

Therefore, it is best to add even a thin grout line in rectified tiles. It will be less visible compared to other types of tiles. This will improve the tile’s durability for the longest time.  

Final Thoughts

To sum it all up, tiling and grouting must come together to enjoy the full benefits. There are many reasons why not to overlook grout lines, and one is, to keep tiles in place. Choosing the right type of grout will be easier when you rely on the tile material. Leaving the floor and wall groutless might result in greater expenses in the future.