Sick of Re-Grouting? Choose The Perfect Shower Grout Now
Is your shower grout looking worse for wear these days? Are you noticing cracks, stains, or missing grout that just won't stay in place? If so, you're not alone. Re-grouting a shower can be a frustrating and recurring task if the right type of grout isn't used the first time.
The problem often comes down to using the wrong grout for a shower installation. But armed with the right knowledge, you can pick the perfect shower grout to avoid issues down the road.
Sanded vs Unsanded Grout
What is Grout?
Before diving into specifics, let's cover the basics. Grout is the material used to fill in the seams between tiles, binding them together while allowing movement. It typically contains cement, aggregates like sand, and color pigments.
Grout serves several important functions: it seals the gaps between tiles to prevent moisture damage, it provides an aesthetic uniform surface, and it allows for slight variations in tile spacing while preventing cracks. Using the right type of grout for the job is critical.
Sanded Grout
Sanded grout contains fine sand and aggregates within its cement mixture. This added texture serves some key advantages:
- Higher durability for high-traffic areas
- Resists shrinking and cracking as it cures
- Effective for grout joints larger than 1/8th inch
The downside is that sanded grout can be difficult to fully clean out of narrow grout lines. The gritty texture may also scratch soft polished stone tiles if spilled on the surface during application.
Unsanded Grout
In contrast, unsanded grout has a smooth consistency without sand or aggregate particles. Benefits of this type include:
- Easier to apply into narrow grout joints
- Lower chance of scratching glass, metal, or polished tile
However, unsanded grout lacks the improved durability and crack resistance provided by sand. Without those aggregates, unsanded grout is more prone to damage and staining over time.
Choosing the Right Grout
When selecting a grout, it's important to consider where and how it will be used.
Where to Use Sanded Grout
Sanded grout is the preferred choice for:
- Floors - Better durability for high foot traffic
- Grout joints larger than 1/8th inch - Resists cracking
Where to Use Unsanded Grout
Meanwhile, unsanded grout works best for:
- Walls and shower surrounds - Easier vertical application
- Small mosaic tiles - Tight grout lines
In a shower, sanded grout may be suitable on floors while unsanded works better on walls. But optimal grout depends on other factors as well...
Other Considerations
When selecting shower grout, it's also important to think about:
- Traffic levels - More durable sanded grout for high-use showers
- Grout joint size - Follow 1/8" rule for sanded vs unsanded
- Tile type - Avoid scratching polished tiles with sanded grout
Considering all these variables will lead you to the right grout for your specific shower tiles and setup.
Preventing Grout Issues in Showers
Choosing the optimal shower grout is the first step. But proper installation and maintenance are also key to preventing recurring grout problems:
Cleaning and Sealing
All grout should be sealed to protect from moisture and make cleaning easier. Standard grout sealers form a water-resistant barrier that prevents stains:
- Seal grout per manufacturer instructions
- Clean with pH-neutral cleaners
- Reapply sealer every 1-2 years
Following Best Practices During Installation
Correct installation techniques also prevent issues down the road:
- Properly mixing and applying grout
- Allowing full 72-hour cure time
- Using spacers for even, appropriately sized grout joints
Taking these steps will lead to shower grout that holds up beautifully.
Signs It's Time to Regrout Your Shower
If your shower grout displays any of these common problems, it likely needs proper regrouting:
- Cracks wider than 1/16th inch
- Significant staining or discoloration
- Missing grout leaving gaps
- Loose tiles
- Grout becoming soft or powdery
- Mold or mildew growth
Don't put up with failing shower grout and risk moisture damage. Get the right grout for the job!
Choosing sanded or unsanded grout comes down to factors like where it will be applied, the joint size, and tile type. Properly sealing and cleaning grout is also critical for showers.
Armed with these tips, you can confidently tackle your shower grout. No more enduring frequent regrouting or cracks. Just beautiful water-resistant joints that will stand the test of time.