Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout: Choosing the Right LATICRETE® Grout for Your Tile Project

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?

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.