Grout is used to fill the joints between the floor and/or wall tiles. Depending on the colour, style and material chosen will determine which grout should be used to achieve both a functional and aesthetic aim. Remember that the width of joints also plays a role in deciding which grout to use.

Standard grout is cement based and used for exterior and interior applications for a maximum joint width of 8mm. Minimum joint widths for walls is 2 mm and for floors is 3mm.

In high traffic areas, areas that are consistently wet or where the application is complicated, it is advisable to mix a bonding additive to the standard grout. The bonding additive is a latex based liquid formulated to work in conjunction with the grout to provide additional flexibility and bond strength. The grout will cure one shade darker if bonding additive is used.

For areas where high acid, alkaline, or chemical conditions exist, a chemical resistant tile grout should be used. Usually these grouts are epoxy based. This grout can be used for interior or exterior application to grout joints with a maximum width of 15mm on walls or floors.

When grouting quarry and porous non-glazed tiles it is recommended that tiles be sealed first to prevent any staining of the tiles with the grout.

An anti-stain grout is also available for the grouting of highly absorbent tiles such as sandstone. The product can be used for interior and exterior application to grout joints up to a maximum width of 15mm on walls and floors. This grout reduces “picture stain” framing.

The majority of grouts are cement based and come in colours ranging from white, different shades of grey, terracotta, black, dark, and light brown, beige and oatmeal.