Grouting is what you call the process of filling in the gaps between the tiles. Doing this helps prevent dirt and debris from accumulating in the gaps. It also adds strength to the tile installation. Without grouting, your tile might be prone to getting out of form or out of shape when facing physical pressure and stress.
Applying Your Tile Grout 101
If you plan to do this on your own or are simply curious about how it should go, here are some of the important details you should know about tile grouting.
1. The Color to Use
Tile grout comes in different colors, and one of the most challenging decisions you need to make is deciding which one to get. Here are some tips that might help you:
- If you want the area to feel larger, choose a grout color that blends with your tile. It would make the whole room look seamless.
- If your tiles were laid out in a creative pattern that you want to highlight, you might want to use a grout that is in contrast with your tile color. Doing that can make the shapes and styles more visible to people.
- If you want to unify the look of your tile, just like how wood tiles look together, you go for a grout color that is slightly lighter than your tile color.
In the end, the color you choose for your tile grout depends on what your goal for your space is. Make sure that whatever you choose complements each other.
2. The Type of Joint to Use
When choosing the type of joint to use, you need to consider two factors:
- The enhancement to tile durability
- The temperature they can and must endure
If you live in a cold place where the temperature often drops below zero, you may want to choose the appropriate frost-resistant joint material. If you have underfloor heating, make sure that the cladding and the grout you use can withstand the heat on your floor.
3. Width of the Joints
Unfortunately, the width between tiles does not depend on your personal preference. You need to follow the rules implemented by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The width may change depending on where you would place the tile and what type of environment it would be exposed to.
For example, if the tiles are placed outdoors or exposed to underground heating, they would require larger expansion joints than regular ones. It would be best to refer to the direction of ANSI or seek the opinion of professionals before placing them on your own.
4. Drying Duration
Grout also takes time before it becomes dry. If you start cleaning up before they are fully dry, you could end up misaligning your tiles or scratching them. Make sure to check the recommended timing by the manufacturer before you begin your application. Usually, they require at least 24 to 48 hours of drying time before you can clean up the place.
Conclusion
Applying tile grout between tiles might seem like an easy step, but it is a crucial process. You need to consider the manufacturer’s recommendation when determining the appropriate type of joint. You also need to refer to the ANSI’s direction in terms of the spacing. The color and placing depend on the aesthetic and utility reason. All these factors and more need to be considered for successful tile installation.
If you think these are too overwhelming, let an experienced tile contractor do the job for you. At Design Miter Tile, tile is our expertise. You can guarantee a fast and reliable installation with us in Santa Clara County. We also offer competitive pricing and the highest level of workmanship. Contact us today to request a quote.
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