Choosing tiles is exciting. Choosing grout? Not always. Yet grout plays a major role in how your tiled surface looks, performs and lasts. It fills the joints between tiles, supports the finish and helps protect gaps from dirt, stains and moisture.
One of the most common questions during tile installation is whether to use sanded or unsanded grout. Both are popular types of tile grout, but they are made for different applications. The right choice depends on the tile material, joint width, surface location and expected wear.
This guide explains the differences between sanded grout and unsanded grout, enabling you to select the right one for your project.
What is Sanded Grout?
Sanded grout is a cement-based grout mixed with fine sand particles. These sand particles give the grout extra body, reduce shrinkage and improve strength after curing.
Because of its thicker texture, sanded grout works well in wider tile joints where the gap needs stronger filling. It is commonly used for floors, outdoor tiles, high-traffic areas and larger tile formats.
The sand also helps the grout hold its shape better, especially where joints are broad. However, it may not be suitable for delicate or polished tiles because the gritty texture can scratch the surface during application.
What is Unsanded Grout?
Unsanded grout is a smoother grout that does not contain sand. It is usually made with cement, pigments and additives that help it spread easily into narrow joints.
Because it has a finer texture, unsanded grout is ideal for thin grout lines, wall tiles and delicate surfaces like glass, marble, polished stone and glossy ceramic tiles. It is easier to apply to vertical surfaces because it sticks better and does not slump as much.
However, unsanded grout is not always the best choice for wider joints or heavy foot traffic areas. Without sand, it may shrink more and may not offer the same strength as sanded grout in broader gaps.
Key Differences Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout
Texture and Application
The most visible difference is texture. Sanded grout feels gritty because it contains sand. This makes it thicker and more suitable for filling wider joints.
Unsanded grout has a smooth, fine consistency. It can easily enter narrow joints and is easier to spread across delicate tile surfaces.
A simple way to remember this is:
| Factor | Sanded Grout | Unsanded Grout |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Coarse and gritty | Smooth and fine |
| Best for | Wider joints | Narrow joints |
| Application | Floors and broad gaps | Walls and delicate tiles |
| Scratch risk | Higher on polished surfaces | Lower on delicate surfaces |
| Strength | Higher for wide joints | Better for narrow joints |
Ideal Uses for Each Type
Sanded grout is usually preferred for floor tiles, outdoor areas, patios, kitchens and spaces with regular movement or foot traffic. It is better suited for wider grout lines because the sand helps reduce shrinkage.
Unsanded grout works best for wall tiles, bathroom walls, kitchen backsplashes, polished tiles and narrow joints. It is also a better option when you want a smoother finish.
Durability and Strength
When comparing sanded vs unsanded grout, durability depends on where each one is used.
Sanded grout is stronger in wide joints because the sand adds structure and reduces cracking. This makes it suitable for floors and busy areas.
Unsanded grout performs well in narrow joints because it bonds neatly into small spaces. However, in wider joints, it may shrink or crack more easily if used incorrectly.
When to Use Sanded Grout
Use sanded grout when your tile joints are wide, and the surface needs more strength. It is a practical option for:
- Floor tile installations
- Large-format tiles with wider joints
- Kitchen and living room floors
- Outdoor or semi-outdoor tiled areas
- Areas with regular foot traffic
- Ceramic, porcelain and textured tiles
Sanded grout is a good choice when durability matters more than an ultra-smooth finish. It holds up well in spaces where tiles face movement, load or everyday wear.
However, avoid using it on delicate, glossy or polished tile surfaces unless the product is recommended for that tile type. The sand particles may leave scratches during application.
When to Use Unsanded Grout
Use unsanded grout when you are working with narrow joints or delicate tiles. It is suitable for:
- Wall tiles
- Bathroom walls
- Kitchen backsplashes
- Glass tiles
- Marble and polished stone
- Glossy ceramic tiles
- Thin tile joints
Unsanded grout is easier to control in tight spaces. It gives a cleaner, smoother finish and reduces the risk of surface scratches.
It is also useful for vertical applications because its smoother consistency helps it stay in place during installation.
How to Choose the Right Grout for Your Tile Installation
The best grout is not just about colour. It should match the tile, joint width and usage area.
- Start with the joint width: Wider joints usually need sanded grout because it offers better structure. Narrow joints need unsanded grout because it fills tight spaces more easily.
- Check the tile surface: For polished, glossy, soft or scratch-prone tiles, unsanded grout is usually safer. For textured, matte, ceramic or porcelain tiles, sanded grout may work well.
- Consider the application area: Floors and high-traffic spaces need stronger grout. Walls and decorative surfaces need a cleaner finish.
- Think about moisture exposure: Bathrooms and kitchens may need grout with better stain and moisture resistance.
- Follow product instructions: Mixing ratio, curing time, joint cleaning and sealing all affect the final result. Even the right grout can fail if applied incorrectly.
For professional tile installations, brands like MYK LATICRETE offer tile grout solutions designed for different surfaces, joint sizes and performance needs. Choosing the right product helps improve finish, hygiene and long-term durability.
Conclusion
The choice between sanded and unsanded grout comes down to where and how the grout will be used.
Choose sanded grout for wider joints, floor tiles and areas that need more strength. Choose unsanded grout for narrow joints, wall tiles and delicate surfaces that need a smoother finish.
Both are useful types of tile grout, but they are not interchangeable in every situation. When selected correctly, grout does more than fill gaps. It protects the tiled surface, improves appearance and supports long-lasting installation performance.
