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Tips for choosing the right grout for your ceramic
When purchasing the ceramic or porcelain tile that will cover the floor or be placed on the backsplash of the kitchen, it is important to choose a suitable and harmonious grout. Indeed, depending on the tile chosen, the options may differ.
The joint created by the hardened grout solidifies the tile surface and prevents dirt from accumulating between them. But it also has an aesthetic function. So it's important to choose the right grout.
The first question to ask yourself is what color will finalize the overall look of your ceramic surface. It can be light, dark, earthy or bright… the possibilities are endless! You must go by taste, but also by logic. Here are some ideas to guide your choice:
- Tiles are textured: if the tiles contain several shades or display unobtrusive patterns, it is best to choose a color that will blend in perfectly. We want to avoid contrasts! For example, if you choose the beautiful confetti tiles, look for the background color (the one that dominates), such as beige. It will become the color of your grout. But go with your taste: in a bright children's room, using a red, blue or green grout can have a remarkable effect!
- The tiles are simple: if you've settled on more classic tiles that don't punctuate your decor, you have two choices. Either keep it simple by choosing a grout that matches the color of the tile, or add some dynamism with a contrasting grout. Think about the overall mood of your room: does it lack character? If so, you can dare to use contrasts! For example, choose a gray ceramic with white grout or a sage green porcelain with black grout.
- The room is dirty: Some areas of the house are dirtier than others. And this can change from one residence to another! Is it the hallway in your home that's hard to clean because of the kids' winter boots? Or is it the main bathroom used by many family members? Either way, consider choosing a color that will forgive imperfections and embedded dirt. For example, a dark gray or black. White grout is a no-no in these rooms!
- Glossy or matte: In all cases, you can opt for a grout with a finish of your choice. It will not impact the look of the floor. If you choose a porous matte finish, be sure to protect it with a sealer.
What is the type of product chosen?
Another important question to ask yourself is the type of flooring you will be installing. There are grouts for all products: ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone (slate, granite, marble), stainless steel, etc. If you don't use the right grout, you run the risk of damaging your flooring, for example by scratching it.
It is important to refer to the ceramic manufacturer's recommendations when purchasing grout.
Where will the ceramics be installed?
The location where the tiles will be installed may require a suitable grout. For example:
- Grout will go in a shower: Because of the personal care products used in a shower, grout is put to the test. Some grout will retain traces of deposits.
- Ceramic will be outside: You have the great idea to make a porcelain terrace adapted to outdoor life? Don't forget to find out which grout will be the most resistant to weather and temperature changes.
- Grouting will work in a wet room: Some grouts have special properties, such as being more resistant to moisture than others. This makes them ideal for a bathroom or a poorly insulated basement.
One last tip: although the colors are illustrated on the product packaging, it is sometimes possible to see the final result in store with more concrete samples. Ask a professional at Déco Surfaces.