Difference Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout

Sanded Grout

Sanded grout is a type of filler that is used to fill gaps between tiles on floors, walls, and borders. This construction material is a combination of Portland cement, coloured powdered pigments, and basic silica sand.

Because of the sand, this grout is highly robust and long-lasting. The sand particles get suspended in the solidified mix when the grout is placed and begins to cure. This results in greater stability, a decreased chance of breaking, and far less shrinkage than non-sand grouts. Sanded grout is thicker than unsanded grout due to its composition. This can make application more difficult, and diluting the mix with water to increase spreadability might result in microscopic holes left behind after curing, weakening it. However, because of its stability and longevity, sanded grout is best suited for floor tiles and grout lines. However, because of its stability and longevity, sanded grout is best suited for floor tiles and grout lines .

Unsanded Grout

Unsanded grout is manufactured using Portland cement and powdered colours rather than sand. Unsanded grout, like sanded grout, is used to fill gaps between tiles. The user blends the grout mix with water to create a slurry that may be readily applied using a grout float. Cured unsanded grout loses a significant amount of the strength and durability of sanded grout due to the lack of sand in the grout mix. It shrinks significantly, is more prone to breaking, and will deteriorate  over time.  As a result, unsanded grout is less suitable for flooring or high-traffic areas. Despite the inferior end result, unsanded grout has certain advantages.

Unsanded grout is significantly thinner than sanded grout, making it simpler to work into narrower joints. Unsanded grout is the preferred option for grout lines less than 18 inches long. Unsanded grout produces incredibly smooth grout lines, resulting in a cleaner, sleeker appearance. As a result, unsanded grout is perfect for backsplashes, shower walls, and other vertical tile surfaces where their appearance is more essential. Certain tile types benefit from unsanded grout. Unsanded grout is required for materials such as marble, limestone, and ceramic tiles with highly polished or gloss surfaces since sanded grout will harm the tile surface.

Usage of Sanded Grout vs. Unsanded Grout

When should you use sanded grout versus unsanded grout?

Some tiling jobs require sanded or unsanded grout, and understanding when to use either type of grout will make a significant difference in the completed outcome. Here’s what one should search for when deciding between sanded and unsanded grout. 

The dimension of the grout line

The dimension of the grout line is the most important consideration in deciding whether to use sanded or unsanded grout. Grout lines, as previously stated, are the empty spaces between tiles and can range from hardly perceptible to up to 1/2 inches in extreme situations. 

Unsanded grout is best for tiny grout lines and tile joints under 1/8 inches. This mixture is thin, making it simpler to work with a grout float between the tiles. If the grout does fracture, the thinner lines make the little cracks less visible. Sanded grout is recommended for grout lines wider than 1/8 inches. The aforementioned substance is less prone to break and forms a more durable binding across a larger surface area. It will also shrink far less than unsanded grout, which is important for a broader grout line.

Type of installation

Where the DIYer or professional will install the grout is also an important consideration. Because vertical wall tiles are subjected to far less damage than horizontal tiles, the ideal type of grout to use might vary. Unsanded grout is typically better for vertical surfaces like backsplashes and shower walls. Its silky surface is less prone to trap soap scum, cooked food particles, or dirt and grime. Because no one will be walking on the vertical tiles, the relative fragility of unsanded grout is irrelevant. Sanded grout is a preferable alternative for grout lines on tile flooring. Sanded grout must withstand the weight of humans and dogs walking, as well as furniture and appliances. Furthermore, floor tiles are typically broader than wall tiles, which usually benefit from somewhat wider grout lines, necessitating the use of sanded grout. 

Type of Tile

Finally, while deciding whether to use sanded or unsanded grout, examine the type of tile. Some tiles and natural stones may be grouted with any kind, while others need a more subtle touch.

Scratch-resistant tiles and stones, such as matte ceramic, porcelain, slate, and granite, can be used with any grout type. Allow the breadth of the grout lines and the application to guide your selection in this scenario.

Unsanded grout is suitable for easily scraped or porous stone tiles such as soapstone, marble, and sandstone. During the grout application procedure, the fine sand in sanded grout could clog the pores of these stones or damage them. If sanded grout must be used owing to the width of the grout lines, make careful to varnish the tile first to avoid choked or damaged tiles.