Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout: Choosing the Right LATICRETE® Grout for Your Tile Project
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When planning a tile installation, choosing the right grout is just as important as selecting your tiles. Grout not only fills the spaces between tiles but also plays a vital role in the longevity, appearance, and durability of the tiled surface.
One of the most common questions DIYers and professionals alike ask is:
What’s the difference between sanded and unsanded grout—and when should I use each?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, explore their best-use cases, and highlight top LATICRETE® grout products in each category to help you make the right choice for your next tile project.
What is the Difference Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout?
|
Feature |
Sanded Grout |
Unsanded Grout |
|
Texture |
Gritty (contains fine sand) |
Smooth (no sand) |
|
Joint Width |
Best for joints 1/8" to 1/2" wide |
Best for joints less than 1/8" |
|
Shrinkage |
Less shrinkage due to sand content |
More prone to shrinkage |
|
Surface Suitability |
Not ideal for soft or polished tiles |
Ideal for delicate surfaces (glass, marble) |
|
Durability |
High durability in high-traffic areas |
Less durable under stress |
When to Use Sanded Grout
Sanded grout is ideal for:
- Floor tile installations
- Wider grout joints (1/8" to 1/2")
- Areas that experience heavy foot traffic
- Tiles with textured or matte finishes
Top LATICRETE® Sanded Grout Products
PERMACOLOR® Grout
- High-performance, color-consistent grout for joints 1/16" to 1/2"
- Stain-resistant and highly durable
- Great for floors, countertops, and exterior applications
1500 Sanded Grout
- Economical choice for sanded grout needs
- Designed for interior and exterior installations
- Available in a wide variety of colors
PERMACOLOR® Select
- A two-part system with color packets
- Easy customization and consistency
- Ideal for commercial projects needing uniform appearance
When to Use Unsanded Grout
Unsanded grout is ideal for:
- Wall tile and vertical applications
- Narrow grout joints (less than 1/8")
- Scratch-sensitive tiles like polished marble or glass
-
Shower walls, backsplashes, and delicate tile surfaces
Top LATICRETE® Unsanded Grout Products:
1600 Unsanded Grout
- Smooth finish for narrow joints
- Ideal for walls, showers, and glass tiles
- Available in multiple colors
PERMACOLOR® NS Grout (Newer alternative to 1600)
- High-performance, non-sanded grout
- Excellent for high-moisture environments
- More durable and stain-resistant than traditional unsanded grout
What About Epoxy Grouts?
If you're working on a project that demands maximum stain resistance, chemical durability, or waterproof performance, consider an epoxy-based grout like:
SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout
- Suitable for both sanded and unsanded applications
- Offers the strength of epoxy with the ease of application of cementitious grout
- Non-sag, color uniform, and easy to clean
Great for:
- Commercial kitchens
- Showers and wet areas
- High-traffic flooring
- Outdoor and submerged installations (e.g., pools)
How to Choose the Right LATICRETE® Grout
Ask yourself these key questions:
What is the width of your grout joints?
- < 1/8": Go with unsanded
- ≥ 1/8": Choose sanded
What kind of tiles are you using?
- Delicate, glass, or polished stone? ➜ Unsanded
- Porcelain, ceramic, or textured stone? ➜ Sanded
Where is the tile being installed?
- Wet or submerged areas? ➜ Consider SPECTRALOCK® epoxy grout
- Walls? ➜ Unsanded is easier to apply vertically
- Floors or high-traffic zones? ➜ Sanded or epoxy for durability
Choosing between sanded and unsanded grout isn’t just a matter of texture—it’s about matching the right product to the needs of your tile surface. LATICRETE® offers premium grout solutions in both categories, ensuring you’ll get professional results that last.
Whether you’re tiling a shower wall, installing a kitchen backsplash, or laying a patio floor, there’s a LATICRETE® grout that’s perfect for the job.