Grout is essential for holding your tiles together. A poor grout job can ruin your installation with cracks and discoloration, while a quality grout job adds strength to protect against moisture and make the design stand out. 

Choosing the Right Grout Type

Use the wrong grout, and you'll see problems arise: 

  • Cement grout is commonly used. It's affordable and needs to be sealed. 

  • Epoxy grout is tougher and great to use in areas that get wet. It's also stain-resistant. 

  • Furan grout is mostly used in industrial areas. It's highly chemical resistant. 

Glass, LVT, or porcelain slabs all respond differently to various grout types. It's important to choose the correct one for your job. Come and visit your nearest Wayne Tile store and get matched with the right product. 

Picking the Right Grout Color

Grout colors frame your tiles and change their aesthetic. Some fade into the background, while others add bold contrast. Both choices can work, depending on your goals. 

Match the tile color if you're looking for a clean, continuous surface. To highlight the tile's shape and layout, choose a contrasting color. Use neutral shades to keep things simple. Gray and taupe hide stains and work well with almost any color. This is an important decision when it comes to high-traffic zones and porous tiles. 

At Wayne Tile, you can look at samples under natural light to help you decide.

Sealing and Maintenance

Unsealed grout gets dirty very quickly. It absorbs water and oil, and stains can become permanent. Mold can also start to grow on unsealed tiles. 

Seal your cement grout after it cures and reapply the sealer once a year. Use cleaners that are pH-balanced since harsh chemicals destroy the seal. Note that epoxy grout doesn't need sealing but still needs care. Wipe it regularly and keep it as dry as you can. 

Discover an entire range of glass and ceramic tiles before you arrive at the sealing phase. 

Common Grouting Mistakes To Avoid

Simple mistakes can ruin tile jobs. Here's what to avoid: 

  • Using too much water when cleaning 

  • Wiping too early during application 

  • Skipping the sealer 

  • Picking the wrong grout width 

  • Forgetting to use tile spacers 

  • Using the wrong grout for the material 

If you're unsure what to do, check in with a Wayne Tile expert. 

Grout Troubleshooting FAQs

Why is my grout cracking? 

Weak packing and too much water can make your grout crack. Check if your subfloor is shifting. If it is, use flexible grout. 

Can I regrout over old grout? 

Yes, but only if the base is solid. If the grout is crumbling, it needs to be removed first. 

Why is my grout stained already? 

This is because unsealed grout absorbs dirt quickly. Clean it with the right product and then seal it. 

Why are my grout lines uneven? 

Grout lines can be uneven due to rushing cleanup and neglecting to use spacers. 

Ask for Grout Assistance at Wayne Tile

Grout makes your whole tile job look polished. It keeps water out and your design in place. From natural stone tiles to porcelain slabs, using the right grout makes all the difference. Explore our full tile collection at Wayne Tile.