Grout for tiles: types and features

Laying tiles on walls or on the floor is not an easy process, but it is quite possible to cope with it without the involvement of specialists. The final stage of this work is the application of the grout. If you neglect this stage, then the appearance of the finish will be less attractive and harmonious.

Today we will take a closer look at such a useful building material, as well as get acquainted with its types and features.

There are two main types of tile installation: with seams and without seams. If you prefer the common option with seams, then you simply cannot do without a high-quality grout (otherwise it is called a fugue).

These concepts mean a whole group of special compounds designed to fill the gaps between tiles. High-quality grouting has many positive qualities, thanks to which they are in many ways superior to similar building mixtures.

According to experts, grouting is a must when laying tiles. Such formulations have the following main functions:

• They protect tile joints from destructive penetration of moisture and dampness. This property is especially relevant when it comes to finishing walls and floors in the bathroom and kitchen.
• Thanks to grouting, mold or mildew does not form on the surface of tiles and seams.
• A high-quality fugue has a strengthening effect on the tiled masonry.
• Without grouting, a tiled surface will look ugly and sloppy. This composition allows you to hide the cracks underneath, which can greatly spoil the appearance of the finish. The main thing is to choose a mixture of a suitable color.

Most consumers prefer grouting, since it has a lot of positive qualities, which include:

• attractive and aesthetic appearance;
• moisture resistance;
• strength and durability;
• ecological cleanliness and safety - does not harm either the environment or human health;
• profitability: consumption is very democratic;
• an easy and time-consuming application.

There are several different types of grout. Each species has a number of features and useful properties. Many of them easily withstand the effects of aggressive chemicals., as well as sharp temperature drops. This suggests that high-quality and reliable grout can be used both in a residential building or apartment, and in industrial premises.

Different grouts have different components in the composition. The simplest are dry mixes, which are made on the basis of cement with special additives (plasticizing and mineral). Such formulations must be diluted with water. In rare cases, a special liquid latex should be used instead of water. The main thing is to follow the instructions on the package.

Reliable synthetic blends are stronger and more durable. They contain resins.These grouts are usually liquid. Some formulations can be used immediately, while others must be diluted with special hardeners (before starting work).

Experts say that jointing mixtures with different compositions act in approximately the same way. When such grouting is used to fill the joints between tiles, the mixture is attached directly to the edges of the finishing material, and then solidifies, forming a thick waterproof layer between the different parts of the cladding.

The grout must only be used within the expiration date indicated on the packaging. If this is neglected, the fugue may begin to crumble or will not adhere to the tile surface at all.

As for the immediate shelf life of the grout, it differs from product to product. For example, the Atlas mixture can be used for one year in the case of an epoxy mixture. The shelf life of glossy options is 2 years.

There are several types of grout mixes. Each lineup has its own pros and cons. Let's consider in detail all the possible options and the nuances of working with them.

Such formulations are among the most common and are common. They are based on Portland cement, which is often diluted with various additives. Such mixtures are diluted using a special latex plasticizer.

Cement-type grout is a reliable water-repellent and waterproof mixture with increased adhesion to finishing materials. Small seams (no more than 5 mm) are treated with such a joint.... In other cases, it is better to purchase a sand-cement type of mortar.

For work, the cement composition must be poured with water, and then mixed well. You should start applying it to the seams after 5 minutes. It is recommended to use such mixtures when working with ceramic, glass and stone tiles on a plastered basis made of brick, concrete, drywall or PVC.

It is not recommended to use these options if you have installed glazed tiles or marble on the wall or floor.

If you plan on tiling your bathroom, then cement grout is ideal. It is advisable to choose mixtures that include additional components that make them more reliable and durable.

The main advantages of cement grouts are:

• Quite good strength characteristics.
• Ease of application. Even inexperienced craftsmen can handle them.
• To prepare such mixtures, you also do not need to have special knowledge and rich experience.
• If the finish becomes cracked over time, it can be easily replaced.
• Cement compounds are inexpensive and can be found in any hardware store.

The disadvantages of cement-sand grouting mixtures include:

• The ability to absorb too much moisture.
• Such grouts are presented in a rather modest color range, so some buyers cannot find a suitable mixture for their tiles.
• Cement mixes shrink slightly when completely dry. This often leads to the formation of cracks.
• Such grout freezes for a long time.

This is due to the fact that they form a special porous surface that absorbs a large amount of moisture. Because of this, over time, mold appears on the seams between the tiles, and they themselves can begin to collapse.

A high-quality antifungal mixture, which must be introduced into the cement composition, will be able to cope with this problem.... It is also permissible to refer to liquid latex impurities, which will make the grout more reliable and elastic.

These grouts contain a special epoxy resin. In addition, for additional strength, a special fine aggregate is added to such mixtures. Special colored sand is suitable for this. It makes the seam much stronger and also acts as a pigment.

After the introduction of the hardener, epoxy grouts quickly become waterproof and dense masses, in many ways similar to plastic. This option for sealing joints is one of the most successful, especially when it comes to finishing damp surfaces in a bathroom, bath, pool or kitchen.

The main advantages of epoxy grout include the following.

• High elasticity and water resistance.
• Poreless surface. Thanks to this structure, the epoxy grout does not absorb moisture and does not cause mold and mildew to appear.
• Such mixtures are not afraid of aggressive chemicals, abrasives and various detergents.
• Such grout and temperature changes are not afraid.
• Over time, such compositions do not lose their color and do not crack, since they do not shrink.
• Epoxy mixtures are presented in a fairly rich palette of colors, so you can choose the right option for tiles of any shade.

Of the minuses of these grouting, the following stand out.

• The complexity of the application. To cover the gaps between the tiles with this composition, you need to have dexterity, since it dries very quickly.
• The difficulty of removing the composition directly from the surface of the tile.
• They are more expensive than other mixture options.
• They have a high content of sand in the composition, therefore their surface is slightly rough. Small threads, hair and other debris often cling to such coatings.

These types of grouts are characterized by increased elasticity and excellent water-repellent characteristics. Such mixtures can be used to cover gaps between tiles, the size of which is 1-6 mm.

Polyurethane grouts are an excellent option for ceramic finishes on movable substrates. This is due to the fact that such mixtures are highly elastic and do not undergo cracking, even if the tile "plays" on the wall or on the floor.

The advantages of polyurethane grouts include the following.

• Water resistance. Such a fugue will not absorb dampness and moisture, dirt.
• Such mixtures very easily fill even the smallest joints.
• These fugues do not require mixing, since the mixture is initially ready for use.
• Using polyurethane grout, you will have enough time to correct any errors and inaccuracies in the application.
• These compounds are easily and quickly erased from the surface of ceramic tiles.

There are not many disadvantages of this product. The only thing that can be attributed to them is that they do not tolerate chlorine and can even be destroyed under its influence.

These mixtures are also distinguished by their elastic structure. With this option, you can easily fill in small seams, the width of which is 2-3 cm.In their pure form, they are used very rarely, because they are quite expensive. However, simple cement fugues are often added to latex mixtures. This is necessary to improve the strength characteristics of the composition.

The main features of latex grouts are that they are resistant to bending and compression.... In addition, they are not afraid of temperature changes and do not lose their color over time.

The advantages of latex grouting are:

• increased elasticity;
• not susceptible to cracking;
• the possibility of filling wide joints between tiles;
• waterproofness;
• a large selection of different colors.

The disadvantages of such products are:

• high price;
• the need for timely removal of the fugue from the surface of the tile - if you neglect this rule, then noticeable muddy traces will remain on the cladding;
• does not tolerate steam cleaning.

This composition has an unusual black color. It can only be used in industrial premises. Furan grout contains special furan resins. Such mixtures are heat-resistant and are not at all afraid of the effects of aggressive chemical compounds.

They are made on the basis of a special curable resin, to which latex is added, as well as Portland cement. This is necessary for additional elasticity and reliability of the mixture.

After complete solidification, the furan fugue resembles an epoxy resin in many ways, but has different chemical properties. This grout is acid-resistant, but reacts with foreign substances, releasing harmful compounds. For this reason it is strongly not recommended to use these mixtures in the conditions of an ordinary residential apartment... Most often they are used in production facilities.

The positive qualities of these grouts are:

• waterproofness;
• such mixtures form a fairly firm and reliable seam;
• are not afraid of the effects of acids, as well as ultraviolet radiation;
• are elastic;
• do not crack over time.

However, such grouts have their own weaknesses:

• it is not so easy to find them in free sale;
• they are available exclusively in black;
• are reactive;
• allowed for use only in production areas outdoors.

Acrylic is a popular and common ingredient found in many building materials. In combination with other elements, it receives a variety of capabilities and properties.

Trowelable acrylic sealant is used not only for the treatment of joints between tiles, but also for other purposes:

• For sealing seamsfound in materials such as concrete, wood, plaster and brick. Thanks to the processing of such bases with a sealant, paint is much easier and more reliable on them.
• For additional sealing of small holes, cracks, as well as window frames and window sills.

Fugue tinting is one of the most important details that cannot be ignored. Grout can be of absolutely any color. It is necessary to select one or another composition in accordance with the shade of the tile, so that the appearance of the finish is more harmonious and neat.

Fugue gray is natural... Mixtures of plain white and black are quite common. In case you could not find a ready-made grout of the tone you need, you can create it on your own. To do this, you need to buy an ordinary white fugue and paint it with a color scheme.

The simplest is the tandem of tiles and grout in the same color.Such solutions look harmonious and represent a single whole. However, such a color combination is unlikely to suit those who like more original and vibrant environments.

Snow-white grout is universal.... It looks harmoniously with almost any tile, be it contrasting dark or calm light.

Manufacturers often add shiny components to them, thanks to which they create an interesting effect of a silver, gold or metal surface, as well as a bronze coating.

These options look attractive and eye-catching. For example, a bronze grout will be an unobtrusive addition to a decor in a classic or fanciful style.

When choosing one or another shade of grout, the following simple rules must be observed.

• Dark and contrasting mixtures should be used only in cases where you are sure that the tile lies perfectly on the wall or on the floor. This is due to the fact that such a color opposition noticeably emphasizes the pattern of laying the material.
• If errors and omissions were made in the process of laying the tiles, then it is better to use a grout of a light shade. In such cases, the darker tone of the tile will visually distract attention from irregularities and defects.

Also, experts recommend choosing the shade of grout in accordance with the interior items in the room. To date, the most popular are mixtures of the following colors.

• Yellow, orange... Such mixtures can be used with tiles of similar colors. They can completely repeat the tone of the fugue or differ by a couple of values.
• Red and burgundy grout... Such a fugue looks attractive and bright. It can be safely combined with similar shades, or you can turn to interesting contrasting solutions. For example, it can be white or black tiles. However, it is recommended to resort to such combinations if you are comfortable with sharp color changes, and they do not irritate you.

• Blue, light blue, lilac, purple grout... These options will look organically in an ensemble with tiles of calm but deep tones. For example, blue grout can be used with blue tiles, and blue grout can be used with blue tiles.
• Turquoise and light green grout... They will look good in tandem with blue and green tiles.

• Brown grout... Such a mixture will look great with tiles of coffee, chocolate or caramel shades, as well as with coatings that imitate wood. The main thing is that the fugue differs from the finish by a couple of tones and is lighter.
• Black grout... A dark composition, reminiscent of graphite in shade, will look good against a contrasting light background. However, such a solution is permissible only if the tile is applied to the wall perfectly evenly and neatly.

• Shimmery and pearlescent. Relatively recently, unique shimmering and pearlescent groutings have appeared on the market. These mixtures are ideal if you have tiled floors or walls with mosaics. The effect of an interesting and eye-catching shimmer is achieved by adding the luminous sparkles found in the grout mix.

• Colorless... In cases of multi-color combinations or laying mosaic tiles, a transparent grout will be an excellent solution. This mixture is based on glass, and it can be safely decorated with a unique artistic surface with mosaic patterns.

The transparent fugue blocks out the sun's rays and adjusts to the color of the tile. But still, this composition is not absolutely transparent. It can only be used in cases with small seams, the width of which does not exceed 2 mm.

Many people are mediocre in their grout mixes and match them accordingly. In fact, the selection of finishing materials should be done with all responsibility, so it is worth adhering to the following recommendations from the masters.

• If you are carrying out renovation work in a bathroom, where the ceramic finish occupies all surfaces, then it is better to give preference to a not very expensive, but moisture-resistant mixture. For example, it can be a cement or cement-polymer option. It is also permissible to mix the white grout with liquid latex and obtain a suitable and reliable grout.
• In special "wet" areas (kitchen, bathroom, swimming pool, sauna), fugues are needed that have not only waterproof, but also wear-resistant compositions that are not afraid of detergents. A two-component epoxy grout is ideal for this. Similar options can be safely used in the design of the seams of mosaic panels.

• For the treatment of the floor, it is worth using a cement-sand or epoxy mixture of darker tones.
• As for the exterior, it is worth looking for furan grout here. If you can't find it anywhere, then turn to a simple cement grout and add latex grout to it, as well as a special antiseptic impregnation to extend its life.
• If you are a lover of unique design ideas, then you should choose grout with a beautiful gloss. The main thing is that they fit the tile. For example, such options will look good in combination with mirror tiles.

• For special gypsum tiles, it is recommended to choose a cement grout.
• Don't forget about the color of the grout. The choice of a suitable shade largely depends on your taste preferences, but the color of the tiles, as well as the color scheme of the interior as a whole, play an important role.
• Tile grout must be of high quality and not expired. It is also necessary to choose mixtures made in accordance with GOST.

To apply grout, different methods are used, in many respects similar to each other. So, the correct grouting of tiles with a cement composition is carried out in several stages:

• First, the mixture must be prepared, based on the instructions on the package. After that, using a rubber spatula, you need to apply the grout in portions to the tile along the joint, and then perpendicular to the seam.
• The full filling of the gap will be indicated by its convex surface after holding it with a spatula with grout.

• In the process of work, it is necessary to remove excess glue every 15-20 minutes.
• After a day, the surface finished with ceramic tiles must be wiped with a damp cloth, allowed to dry completely, and then polished with a dry flannel with your own hands.

Fuging tiles with epoxy mixtures is performed as follows:

• First, the grout is kneaded until the required consistency is obtained. The prepared mixture should be used within 50 minutes.
• The direct laying of the mixture should be done with a homemade syringe made from a plastic bag. A special construction gun will also work.
• After emptying the gun or syringe bag, remove excess glue from the finish, and then remove any dirt from the tile with a rag and solvent.

Cleaning the joints with silicone grout should be carried out in accordance with the following plan:

• First, the seams are cleaned and degreased.
• The base is cleaned of dirt and dust.
• The tile is carefully dried.
• Then, using a pistol, it is necessary to evenly apply the fugue to the inside of the seam.

The grout dries up completely in 5-7 days after application.But if we are talking about flooring, then you can walk on it already on the third day, but it is better to avoid unnecessary loads at this time.

After grouting, it is recommended to cover the seams between the tiles with special protective agents. With the help of them, you can reduce the absorbency of the fugue, as well as maintain its original color.

After 4-6 hours after drying and polymerization of the protective compound, a special film is formed on the seams that does not allow moisture to pass through. She will protect the seams from water penetration and loss of color.

After 6 hours, the seam treated with a protective mixture is covered with cold water. For this, it is better to use a spray. In areas where the seams darkened, water penetrated deep, one application of protection was not enough. After that, the tiles need to be dried and processed again with a brush.

Grout for tile joints must be of high quality and reliable, and such products are offered only by well-known manufacturers who value their reputation. Consider a small rating of the most popular and high-quality firms:

• Kiilto... This Finnish company produces high-quality grout with excellent thermal insulation and moisture resistance characteristics. In addition, the mixtures of this brand are not afraid of frost and temperature extremes.
• Litokol... This Italian company produces high quality grouting mixes, manufactured using the most modern equipment. The assortment of Litokol is constantly updated with new practical and reliable grouting in different colors.

• Mapei... This is another well-known brand from Italy that produces products of unsurpassed quality. Grout mixes from this manufacturer collect rave reviews and are regularly recommended for use by experienced craftsmen.
• Moment Seramics... Frost-resistant products of this well-known manufacturer from Germany are in enviable demand in our country. Grouting of this brand is inexpensive. In addition, the Moment Ceramics assortment includes practical universal grout suitable for the treatment of tiles, windows, floors, walls, wood and furniture.
• Atlas... The Polish concern "Atlas" is popular because its grout is easy to mix and apply to finishing materials. After processing, the Atlas fugue does not crack and does not lose its color.

All of these brands produce grout in different containers: in simple tubes, buckets, tubes or convenient pistols and tubes that imitate a pencil... The latter options are the most practical and easy to use, especially when it comes to processing thin seams.

All about grout for tiles, see the next video.