Sanded grout is frequently used in tile installations to provide filling and secure joints between floor tiles, wall tiles, and a wide range of other types.
It is a type of tile grout with fine sand particles included in its composition to provide outstanding durability and performance.
The integrated sand gives sanded grout higher strength and enables wider joint applications up to 1/2 inch.
It also resists cracking and damage from traffic better than other grout options, making sanded grout for floor tiles especially well-suited.
What is Sanded Grout
It refers to a type of tile grout that contains fine sand particles. The sand gives the grout abrasion resistance and improved strength compared to unsanded grout mixes.
It is typically used for filling joints that are wider than 1/8 inch between tiles. The sand particles allow the grout to resist shrinkage when drying in these wider gaps.
Purpose
The main purpose of sanded grout products is to provide durable, long-lasting joint filling between tile installations.
The sand particles act as an aggregate material, reinforcing the grout and minimizing cracks from forming as it cures.
Using sanded grout is especially important for floor tile joints wider than 1/8 inch.
Mixing
Properly mixing sanded grout requires adding clean water according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically done with a paddle mixing blade.
Carefully control water amounts to avoid weakening the grout from excess water. Allow the mixed grout to slake for 5-10 minutes before applying.
Grout Calculator
Here are some key points about a sanded grout calculator:
- A helpful online tool to estimate the quantity of sanded grout needed for a tile installation project
- Inputs required include the total square footage of the tiles, the width of the tile joints, and thickness of the tiles
- Calculates approximately how many pounds or bags of premixed sanded grout to purchase
Why to Use a Grout Calculator
- Takes the guesswork out of buying enough grout for the job
- Helps avoid buying excess grout which leads to waste and added cost
- Especially useful for large tile jobs where grout needs can be significant
How the Calculations Work
- It multiplies the total linear feet of all grout joints by the width and depth to find total volume
- The volume amount is then converted to weight/bags using the density of sanded grout
- Some calculators offer options for joint width and tile thickness
Benefits of Properly Estimating Grout
- Allows you to premix the right amount for efficient application
- Minimizes unused hardened grout that has to be thrown out
- Can budget the project more accurately knowing grout material needs
Using a handy grout calculator removes the hassle of trying to estimate required quantities.
It provides reliable figures so you can confidently purchase enough grout for successful, cost-effective tiling results.
Sanded Grout vs. Unsanded Grout
Both grouts have distinct pros and cons. Here are 5 major ways they differ:
- Sand Particles
This grout gets its name from containing fine sand particles, while unsanded has none. This gives sanded better durability.
- Best Joint Widths
Use sanded grout for wider joints over 1/8 inch—its sand resists cracking. Unsanded is only for narrow grout lines under 1/8 inch.
- Finished Texture
The sand in sanded grout creates a slightly gritty finish texture. Unsanded dries with a super smooth finish.
- Mixing Methods
Sanded grout needs thorough mixing to distribute the sand evenly. Unsanded is easier to hand mix to a smooth consistency.
- Color Consistency
Pigments blend more consistently in un-sanded grout without sand grains altering shades. Sanded grout color can vary slightly.
Sanded Grout Colors
Popular grout colors include variations of white, gray, tan, and darker shades like charcoal or espresso.
Pigments can be added to achieve custom grout colors if desired. Generally avoid drastic color differences between grout lines and the tiles themselves for best results.
Applying Grout
To apply grout, work in small sections for best results. Hold the float at a 45° angle spreading grout over the tiles and into joints, removing excess grout with edge scraping motions.
After allowing drying time, use a damp sponge in a circular motion to clean remaining grout residue from the tile surface.
Cleaning Grout
For routine cleaning, use gentle pH-neutral cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals which may degrade grout over time.
Re-sealing grout every 1-2 years will make regular maintenance cleaning easier.
Removing severe stains may require poultice treatments or stronger cleaners.
Sealing Grout
Although cement-based, grout is porous and applying a penetrating sealer protects it from staining.
Sealers also facilitate easier ongoing cleaning. For sanded grout, solvent-based sealers or epoxy sealants provide the most durable protection. Reapply sealer every 1-2 years.
Applications
The main applications are for filling tile joints, especially those 1/8 inch or wider.
Common installations include floor tile, wall tile, stone tile, and large format tile projects.
It creates durable grout lines suitable for both residential and commercial sites.
Floor Tiles
Using sanded floor tile grout is vital since floors experience more abrasion forces than walls.
The sand strengthens the grout for resistance to cracking, allowing floor tile installations to better withstand surface traffic and cleaning activities long-term.
Wall Tiles
It can also be used for wall tiles depending on the joint width.
Pay special attention to properly wiping down excess grout when applying to walls, as repairs are more difficult compared to floors.
Match wall grout color to the tile color scheme for best aesthetic results.
Cracks
Despite its durability, this grout can develop cracks over time. Contributing factors include poor installation technique, inadequate curing conditions, temperatures shifts causing expansion/contraction, and substrate movement. Damaged grout should be raked out and replaced to maintain waterproof tile joints.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between sanded and unsanded grout allows installers to select the best product for each tile application.
Properly mixing and applying the grout ensures maximum strength and resistance to cracking long-term.
When maintained properly, sanded grout installations have excellent durability even in demanding environments.
