If you don’t know how to mix grout, don’t panic. With the right grout mix and tiling tools, a beginner can have grout ready to go within 30 minutes. Taking on this DIY project can save money on tile installation costs and lets you customize the final look with different grout types and colors.
Choose the Right Grout for the Project
There are three main types of grout: sanded, unsanded, and epoxy. Sanded and unsanded grout are cementitious, which means they cure to a near cement-like hardness. We’re only addressing sanded and unsanded grout in this how-to guide, because epoxy behaves differently and requires a slightly different mixing process.
To choose the right grout, start by determining the width of the joints between tiles that your layout will require.
Unsanded grout contains:
Cement
Filler particles
Pigment
Unsanded grout more readily adheres in small, narrow spaces, so use it when filling joints smaller than ⅛ inch. It’s also the best option if you’re grouting between delicate materials that can get damaged by sand, like marble. Unsanded grout offers a smoother, sleeker appearance, though the lack of sand reduces the binding power.
Sanded grout contains:
Cement
Filler particles
Pigment
Sand
Sanded grout works better in joints wider than 1/8 inch. The sand helps the mixture to bond better with less overall shrinkage, reducing the chances of cracks.
Select a Grout Additive (Optional)
Additives give the grout additional properties above the typical binding. They include:
Mix-in sealants
Latex additives
Color additives
Mix-in sealants are liquids that replace water in the grout mixture and eliminate the need for a secondary sealant after applying the grout. Some mix-in sealants can also improve the consistency of the grout’s color. Mix-in sealants help prevent moisture penetration, thus protecting against stains, mold, and mildew.
You don’t need to use a secondary sealant if you choose to use a mix-in. Some sealants also claim to make the grout harder and more durable, though these claims aren’t substantiated. Not all mix-in sealants work well with every type or brand of grout, so be sure the two are compatible before proceeding.
Latex additives give the grout flexibility and stronger adhesion. They’re a common additive in kitchens and bathrooms because they stand up to temperature changes and improve durability. Latex additives are also known to cure harder, which further protects against moisture penetration.
Finally, there are color additives. Both sanded and unsanded grouts are available in different colors. However, if the color choices aren’t working for your project, you can use a color additive to customize the grout color. Color additives come in powder form, and the more powder you add, the darker the grout color will be. However, keep in mind that the grout will dry slightly darker than the wet mixture.
How to Mix Sanded and Unsanded Grout
Follow the steps below to learn how to mix grout. You’ll be a pro at it in no time.