{"id":388,"date":"2021-02-18T04:41:57","date_gmt":"2021-02-18T04:41:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cohesivehomes.com\/?p=388"},"modified":"2023-02-23T06:12:39","modified_gmt":"2023-02-23T06:12:39","slug":"do-you-grout-between-tile-and","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cohesivehomes.com\/do-you-grout-between-tile-and","title":{"rendered":"Do You Grout Between Tile and…?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you are a DIY-er, you are likely going to start installing, repairing, or replacing existing tiles. However, one aspect that you might find yourself stuck in is where you should use grout \u2013 and if there are any alternatives to the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grout is infamous for cracking due to temperature fluctuations. Although the material itself is temperature resistant, depending on where you install it can mean either a very strong filling or one that doesn\u2019t really amount to much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In order to help you understand where to use grout or where to go with alternatives, here is a detailed guide about all the questions a DIY-er could have about using grout. So, let\u2019s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Grout?<\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"Understanding
A freshly grouted set of tiles.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Before we get into the details of the same, it is important to understand that one of the most commonly used alternatives to grout is caulk (or silicone). Grout and caulk are both very different from each other and therefore serve different purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grout is a masonry product, while caulk is a waterproofing product used by masons and carpenters alike. You can find grout in powdered form in a plastic bag \u2013 or in some hardware stores you can also buy the same by the pound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To use grout<\/a>, you need to mix the powder with water. By doing so, you are basically activating its adhesive<\/a> and molding properties. As the water dries up, the grout particles adhere to each other and therefore form a rock-hard surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For best results, a 3:10 water to grout ratio is recommended,<\/strong> i.e., for every 10 cups of grout, add 3 cups of water. We recommend that you add water slowly into the grout and mix it thoroughly before adding more to avoid leaving unmixed particles. Grout does have a tendency to form lumps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To remember the difference between grout and caulk better, remember that grout fills joints between similar surfaces while caulk fills seams between tiles and fixtures (unlike surfaces).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Different Types of Grout<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you go out to a local hardware shop, chances are that you will find just one type of grout; cement-based grout. However, if you go to hardware stores such as home depot, you will find that there are two other types as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n