Tile is deservedly considered the most popular finishing material for bathrooms. The decisive role in this is played by the moisture resistance of the resulting coating, which cannot be said about the seams between the elements of the coating - these are the most vulnerable areas of the finish. Grouting with special means will help to correct the situation.

Bathroom tile grout has two functions:

• protective. It prevents the penetration of moisture into the inter-tile joints;
• aesthetic, significantly improving the look of the tiled floor, up to the creation of a unique finish.

Types of grout

The modern market is distinguished by a wide variety of materials intended for processing seams. They differ in their composition, which determines their characteristics and cost.

For self-processing, especially if you want to save on building materials, you can advise an inexpensive cement-based mixture. As for the professionals, they prefer to work with the more expensive and efficient -.

In any case, the following characteristics will be decisive when choosing a composition:

• moisture resistance indicators;
• strength;
• shrinkage after setting;
• water absorption level;
• the degree of adhesion to the base.

Cement grout for bathroom tiles

This is perhaps the most popular type of material of this type. At its affordable cost, it provides very good results. In its composition, in addition to the basic component - Portland cement, there are various additives that improve technical and operational characteristics. For example, the fluidity increases, the setting time decreases, and more. This is an excellent option for processing tile joints no more than 5 mm wide. When enclosing a larger space, it is recommended to use cement-sand mixture.

When using a matte product, the coating does not externally change, but a glossy one makes the floor brighter.

The grout compound is diluted by adding a latex plasticizer. The resulting water-repellent mixture creates a solid barrier against the penetration of various microorganisms, mold spores and fungi into the grout. In addition, the introduction of latex helps to increase the adhesion of the mass and the glass or ceramic base. To improve the protective characteristics of the grout, a special moisture-resistant impregnation is applied to it.

Epoxy grout in bathroom tiles

It is not for nothing that this type of grout is considered the most reliable option for protecting against mold formation, because it contains a dye and a hardener. After applying the mixture, the gaps become denser, cease to react to the aggressive effects of moisture and active chemical reagents. Manufacturers often include special additives with various effects in the grout, for example, silvering or gilding, imparting a metallic sheen or pearlescent tint.

The epoxy resin in the mixture makes it quite viscous, so working with it is quite difficult. The mixture is applied using special equipment similar in principle to a confectionery syringe. Working with an epoxy mixture has many nuances and requires a certain level of professionalism.

Particles of the mixture are difficult to clean from the ceramic surface. In such cases, as a rule, they resort to using special cleaners.

Furanic

At home, such a composition is used extremely rarely. Given the non-standard color of the mixture, almost black, perhaps only really creative people can dare to do this. The furan composition is mainly used to seal the tile joints in production facilities.

Colored and transparent mixtures

Today, more and more, grout for tiled flooring is becoming an element of decor. The colored seam, in contrast to the white one, makes the interior more attractive, sometimes even uniqueness. The modern market offers many different color solutions for grouting mixtures. Moreover, in specialized stores they will prepare a grouting material of the shade you need.

However, if you still have not found your way around with the choice, then for this case there is an almost ideal solution - a transparent mixture. The basic component of these compounds is glass. It is this that provides the special effect of these seams - "shiny".

How to choose the color of the composition

• A material that is darker or significantly lighter than the base coat will help make each of its individual elements stand out.
• The choice of material that matches the shade of the tile will help to obtain a visually solid coating. This option can also be recommended for cases when it is required to level some masonry defects, for example, different widths of the inter-tile space.
• White is easily soiled, so it is rarely used today.
• Coating from mosaic tiles it is recommended to decorate with a transparent material, especially in the case of glass, smalt or other similar mosaics.
• In the assortment of the modern market, you can also find original materials, for example, mother-of-pearl or with a glow effect, and others.

Take your time with the purchase of the selected composition. Test first, as many of them change color after drying: apply a small amount to the tile and wait a little.

Work technology

Surface preparation

The processing of the old coating begins with cleaning the inter-tile space.

• The seams are started after the tile adhesive has completely set, at least two days after the coating has been laid.
• All unnecessary ones are removed from the inter-tile spaces: debris, crosses used during installation, etc.

When removing old cement grout, proceed as follows:

• It is moistened with a special composition with an acid base - having entered into a reaction, it softens the grout.
• The latter is removed with a binder.
• Wait until the composition is completely softened so that it is easy and simple to work with it, otherwise you can damage the tile. If necessary, the cleaning composition is applied several times.
• Finally, the surface of the coating is washed with water and detergents and dried thoroughly.

Preparation

The material is usually sold as a dry mix and is prepared just prior to application. The cooking process itself is quite simple and is detailed in the attached instructions.

You decide on the tile, calculated different variants layouts and possible color solutions. But there remains an important detail on which a lot depends. And that's the choice of grout.

Correctly selected grout will last for many years and will improve the visual effect of the cladding.


How to choose a bathroom tile grout? This important issue will be discussed in the article.

Why do you need to rub the seams

Every tiler knows that without a jointer joint, the cladding will not have a finished look. But grout has other functions as well:

1. finished appearance and the possibility of the right accent;
2. seams are protected from moisture, mildew or mold;
3. it is possible for the tiles to play a little.
4. hides small errors in the process of work or differences in the size of the tiles.

How professionals rub the seams and why exactly so, you will learn from this video

Types of grout mixes

Which grout to choose for the bathroom and other areas? Pay attention to the thickness of the seam, the purpose and specifications grouting mixtures. It all depends on the composition.

1. Cement-based;
2. Cement-sand mixture - better fit for wide seams.
3. Based on epoxy resins or furan resin.
4. Silicone joint.

Now about each type of mixtures in more detail.

The cement base explains the homogeneity of the mixture, the strength in the cured state. The mixture is flexible, well distributed throughout the seam. Such plasticity and convenient working time is achieved due to special plasticizers.

The low cost and wide range of applications explain the popularity of such grouting. They are sold ready-made in small buckets, and in the form of powders, which then need to be diluted to a pasty state.

The finished mixture should be in a pasty state, which then needs to be pressed into the seams. The advantage of self-stirring the grout is the ability to stir in small volumes so that nothing withers and disappears.


The disadvantages include:

1. long drying time;
2. poor color palette;
3. instability to chemistry and prolonged exposure to moisture and water.

This type of joint is a smart choice for your bathroom tile grout.

The use of epoxy fugue requires special skills, adherence to technology. An expensive but practical and durable option. Most often, resin grout is used for swimming pools, saunas or rooms with high humidity and temperature changes.

Trowelling mixtures of this type consist of two separate components, which then need to be mixed:

1. the actual resinous substance itself, containing quartz sand;
2. hardener.

One of the difficulties of using resin fugues is the need to properly dilute and mix.

Tips for choosing a grout from a current master

Resin mixtures have:

1. High strength, ductility and durability.
2. Resistant to chemical attack.
3. Large color palette, so they fit any cladding.

Silicone grout

Will delight you with moisture resistance, antiseptic properties and a rich selection of colors and shades.

It is popular among tilers because of its wide and varied scope.

It is believed that silicone or acrylic sealant will serve as a complete replacement for traditional joint compound. But it is better to use a sealant for sealing the junction of a sink and a tile or a bathtub with a tile. This ensures maximum tightness and durability of the cladding.

But over time, the sealant turns yellow, mold and mildew may appear on it. So, you shouldn't use silicone to seal the joints around the entire perimeter.

Choosing a fugue: color scheme

Not all types of grout mixes have a rich color palette, but there are still a lot of options. How to choose a tile grout color?

There are two options: the grout is matched to the color of the tile, or vice versa, you play in contrast.

• The classic option is a white grout, which is suitable for tiles of any color and shade.
• For the floor, the grout is definitely taken darker than the facing itself by one or two tones, and for the walls - a few tones lighter.
• Take your time with the purchase, but choose the one you really need. Decide on the goals you want to achieve.
• Remember: in small spaces, you don't need to experiment a lot. Grouting in dark tones, as well as dark cladding, will not work.
• Bright tiles will not require a bright grout - the surface will be variegated and oversaturated with colors.
• A gray nondescript fugue will help create a monolithic appearance, but a grout darker than the cladding itself will visually highlight each element, each fragment.
• Contrasting grout will clearly show all the errors made during installation. So think about this circumstance.

If you want to accentuate the tiles, using the right grout will help. If the emphasis is on furniture or decorative elements, or if you want to create a functional surface, then it is better not to experiment with grouting and take a white or colorless version.

Specific options

• White fugue is a classic that will work in most cases. Exception: floor tiles... White seams will quickly cease to be such, dirt, dust will get into them, and mold will appear. So it is better to choose a nondescript and functional option: a gray mixture or by the color of the tile.
• Popular color combinations. A combination of red tiles, such as mosaic tiles, and blue seam mix will look bold and extravagant. Just remember that experiments should end logically, here it is important not to overdo it.
• Pink or red with gray. A beautiful combination. You yourself can determine in what variation to use it.
• White with yellow looks warm and homey.

If you don't have the right color

Not the most common problem, but we will consider this option. When you have not found the grout of the color and shade that you wanted, do not be discouraged. You can do it yourself.

To do this, use a trowel mixture and a color scheme that you bought at a hardware store. The pigment will give the mixture the color you want.

If in the process it seems to you that the mixture turns out to be of a different color, do not rush to worry. When the mixture is dry, the seam will be a slightly different shade. So you get the desired result.

The fugue can be improved with various primers and additives. Special additives will enhance moisture resistance and resistance to the appearance of mold and mildew.

How to choose the right fugue for tiles in the bathroom and toilet - video

Specifications

The choice of grout color is not the only thing worth paying attention to. Don't forget about the technical specifications.

You will find the information on the opening box. Pay attention to:

• Maximum seam thickness. If you do not follow the technology and use the mixture for wider joints than provided, the grout will crumble and will not be durable.
• Frost resistance when hardened. For example, Ceresit CE 33 Super pleases from 50 to 100 cycles.
• Moisture resistance and resistance to household chemicals. If you are thinking about which grout for your bathroom tiles to choose, be sure to pay attention to these indicators.
• The operating temperature will show whether it is possible to use the joint joint for outdoor use or to use it only indoors.
• Mixture consumption for tiles of various formats.

How to rub seams

If you bought a cement-based grout, first you need to bring it to a pasty state.

Water is gradually added to the dry powder and mixed until a homogeneous mixture without lumps is obtained. Do not add too much water as this will impair the properties of the grout.

After mixing, pause for 5 minutes, during which the mixture can settle.

For small volumes, stirring can be done manually, but for a large number you will need a construction mixer or drill with an attachment.

Please note that different mixtures have different working times with them. Do not knead more than you can use during this time.


You can only work with stainless tools: the seams are rubbed with a grout using rubber spatulas.

After partial drying of the joint with a soft, damp sponge, the final appearance is given to the joints. It is important that they are smooth and beautiful.

Consumption of mixture for seams

Consumption directly depends on:

1. seam thickness;
2. the number of seams;
3. type of grout mixture;
4. technical characteristics and information from the manufacturer;
5. tiler skills.

How to update seams

Over time, mold can form in the seams, dirt and dust gets there. So the seams need restoration. How to renew seams?

Here are a few points:

Removing the old grout

• Sandpaper. Fold up a small piece of sandpaper and use it to sand the seam. Sometimes you just need to remove the top layer, and sometimes - completely remove the grout.
• Bulgarian and a small circle. Gently cut the joint and remove the grout mixture from the joint.

After removing the old grout, you apply a new batch of the mixture and press it along the perimeter of the joint.

Outcome

We looked at which tile grout to choose. The right grout will help improve the visual effect of the cladding, but with the wrong seams, the tile will look ridiculous.

On the market building materials there is a fugue of various colors and shades, you have a choice.

Modern bathrooms are most often finished using ceramic tiles, which is the most functional and versatile. Plays an important role correct styling material, including such a stage in this process as grouting tiles in the bathroom. It's easy to do this with your own hands, but first, let's consider what are the features of this procedure.

Which mixture should you choose?

The processing of tile joints in the bathroom is carried out using a special mixture, which has a good level of moisture resistance, when it dries, it shrinks slightly and at the same time has high strength. If the grout is chosen correctly, then the seams will be sealed with high quality, and the wall covering itself turns out to be not only reliable in operation, but also convenient for cleaning. Consider what better grout for tile joints in the bathroom.

Cement: simple and cheap

The simplest grouting mass is based on Portland cement, but a number of components are also added to its composition. Their task is to make the mass more stable, fluid, while slowing down the setting. Cement grout is suitable for processing joints, the width of which is not more than 5 mm; for joints, it is more expedient to use a cement-sand grout mixture. In most cases, do-it-yourself grouting of tiles in the bathroom is done using a cement composition. Even an inexperienced finisher will do the job competently.

Modern cementitious grouts are available as ready-mix or dry powder. Ready-made compounds must be used immediately after purchase, but if material remains, you will have to throw it away. In this regard, it is more profitable to use dry powder, since you can calculate a certain amount of material that is diluted. Cement grouting is in demand due to its convenience and ease of use, versatility, wide colors... But users note that they are not resistant to dirt and are destroyed under the influence of household chemicals.

Popular brands: Ceresit

Modern types of grout are distinguished by a wide color variety, which makes it possible to translate into reality a wide variety of design solutions... Ceresit bathroom tile grout is very popular among buyers. Ceresit CE 33 Super is suitable for narrow joints up to 5 mm wide. A distinctive feature of the material is its antifungal effect. The advantages of this composition include:

• 26 available colors;
• smoothness of the surface;
• water and frost resistance;
• the ability to use in outdoor and indoor finishing works Oh;
• environmental safety.

Tile grout in the bathroom "Ceresit" is used for processing joints in ceramic, stone cladding, as well as for filling joints on uneven surfaces inside and outside buildings.

Fuga De-Lux

Solutions for grouting of this brand are produced in the form of a dry mixture, where mineral binders, aggregates, and modifying additives are added. It is advisable to use this composition when grouting joints in the bathroom on the floor and walls that are tiled with ceramic or concrete tiles, natural or artificial stone... The width of the seams that can be processed with this material is from 2 to 20 mm. Its peculiarity is the possibility of using it on heated floors.

Epoxy grout: modern and new

Epoxy grout contains a hardener and pigments that give the material a specific color. This mass is good in that it makes the seams tight, resistant to moisture and various chemicals, in particular to household chemicals. A distinctive feature of such formulations is their increased viscosity, which complicates the application process. In general, it is not so easy to work with this material, therefore they most often turn to professionals.

Epoxy grout for tiles in the bathroom is moisture resistant, most often consists of two components - a pigmented resin and a hardener. They are mixed and the polymerization process begins. It turns out that the seam is filled with a polymer in which there is no cement, which means that high protection against moisture is provided. Until recently, similar materials were used only for industrial purposes and were produced in white and gray colors... And today, colored epoxy grouts are relevant for finishing work, which attract attention:

• the ability to use as an adhesive;
• good resistance to mechanical stress;
• water and vapor tightness;
• resistance to pollution;
• chemical inertness.

How to work with epoxy grout?

Epoxy grout for tile joints in the bathroom requires a special approach in terms of installation. The consistency of this material is thick, but the optimal state can be achieved by adding a hardener and thorough mixing. After mixing, it is advisable to transfer the mixture to a clean container. This will make the seam quality. Epoxy grout begins to polymerize immediately after mixing, so you should not wait for setting, as with cement compounds. As soon as the seams are filled, residues can be washed off the surface.

Popular brands: Kerapoxy Design

Kerapoxy Design is a quality bathroom tile grout in two components and available in eight colors. This composition can be used both inside and outside the premises, but most often it is used when processing seams. Distinctive features of the composition are high resistance to acids, ease of use and durability. Using the special additive Mapeglitter, it is possible to give the aggregate a metallic sheen.

If the material is applied correctly, the surface of the seams will be bright and translucent, they will be distinguished by resistance to chemicals and water, and the seams themselves will be protected from cracking. The material does not require the addition of water. The surface itself must be carefully prepared. Aggregate should be cleaned before the mortar hardens.

LITOKOL

Epoxy grouts of this brand fill the inter-tile space, while they will perform two functions - protective and decorative. This moisture resistant bathroom tile grout consists of a hardener and a color pigment. The resulting polymer seam is resistant to moisture, resistance to aggressive chemical compounds, moreover, pollution will not form in the pores. After hardening, the seams are of high quality, as well as environmentally friendly for human health.

Two-component can be used for cladding horizontal and vertical surfaces, no matter what material is used - ceramic or glass mosaic, marble, ceramic or porcelain stoneware tiles, natural stone... Due to the presence of epoxy resin in the composition, the material can be used for finishing not only internal and external surfaces, but also interior elements - kitchen countertops or furniture facades.

Thanks to this brand, high-quality and reliable grouting of tiles in the bathroom is obtained. The colors of this composition are presented in a huge variety, and it is possible to choose grout with optical effects, for example, with glitter or a transparent structure. Users note that the placeholder will retain its color throughout the entire period of use.

STARLIKE

Epoxy grouting of this brand allows you to fill the joints when using glass or artistic mosaics, and the joints must be up to 2 mm. TO distinctive features this composition can be attributed:

• smooth surface of the seam, since the filler is fine fraction;
• good light transmittance;
• no cracks after the seam dries;
• ease of use;
• increased resistance to various influences;
• excellent adhesion to any surface;
• the possibility of using for finishing surfaces, which are subject to increased requirements for hygiene and sanitation.

This compound can be used as a grout of ceramic tiles in the bathroom on the floor and walls. In addition, the composition is used to create exclusive visual effects and such original elements interiors like columns or countertops in the kitchen. Users note that the main advantage of choosing a grout of this brand is more than 100 color schemes with various effects, which makes the interior even more original.

Advantages of water-repellent compounds

Water-repellent grout is practical and versatile and easy to work with. Resistance to dirt, preservation of its original appearance throughout the entire service life, excellent water-repellent effect even with prolonged contact with water - all this distinguishes such compositions. When choosing, it is worth remembering that the quality of the grout depends on what components were used to create it. Experts advise, when using cement grout, be sure to cover the joint surface with moisture-resistant impregnation in order to improve the protective properties. It comes with a matte or glossy surface, so the seam between tiles, grout can be decorated very nicely.

If you are for economy, then choose cement compositions. True, it is important that the dry mixture, for example, be of high quality, and this depends on what kind of plasticizer is contained in its composition. If costs do not matter, choose epoxy grout, however, you will have to invite specialists to work with it. But you will provide reliable protection from moisture in the bathroom, and the walls and floor will shine and delight you with their appearance.

Laying tiles is a rather serious and difficult task that takes a lot of time and effort. But even professional installation may not look good enough if you don't pay enough attention to the seams between the tiles at the proper stage. In no case should the connecting voids between the two nearest tiles remain in their original form, which is why they are filled with a special material called grout, or fugue. Grout protects the tiles from moisture, dust, various debris, due to which the operation and the magnificent appearance of the tiles increase many times over.

The advantage of tiles is moisture resistance

Basic information

Knowing how to choose the right bathroom tile grout, and which one is better, you can not only protect the tile, but also hide some defects. It will also help to multiply the aesthetic effect of the tiled surface. Depending on its composition, the bathroom grout can be either cement or epoxy.

Sometimes a special silicone sealant is used for grouting, which you can find in cartridges, or pipes. But in no case should you use it instead of a fugue. This tool has a slightly different purpose, and will not be able to fully protect the wall cladding. Silicone sealant is used for waterproofing, as well as insulating tiles from other various materials... So, for example, it is customary to use it at the joints of facing tiles and sinks, bathtubs, etc. Remember that it is completely inappropriate to completely fill the joints between tiles with silicone sealant.

Dry powder can be used more than once

Cement grout

The simplest grout that you can only meet in our time is cement. Even a tiler without much experience is guaranteed with the use of this material, and will be able to make almost perfect cladding. Such a grout for the bath contains: plasticizers, cement (only fine grinding), as well as various pigments and mineral additives. When mixed with latex (required on water based) all of the above components become a fairly plastic material, which in its consistency is very similar to putty. Thanks to this, it is very easy and simple to work with it.

You should pay your attention to the fact that the grout for tiles in the bathroom in its composition and purpose can vary significantly. For example, a grout for wide joints contains one component that is not found in a mastic for narrow joints. Yes, for joints larger than 5 mm, it is customary to use a grout, in which sand is necessarily used. Such a placeholder will not allow cement mortar decay, and will keep it in its original form. You also need to know that the wider the seam, the larger the grains of sand that make up the fugue should be. Cement grout boasts the following benefits:

Cement grout is sold in two types: ready-made composition, and dry powder (which will have to be prepared by yourself). So, ready-made formulations(sold in plastic buckets) can be used immediately after purchase. You just need to open the lid. However, there are pros and cons. It is undoubtedly convenient to buy ready-made mass. After all, you do not waste time preparing it. But after opening the bucket, the grout will “live” no more than a few hours. Therefore, it is recommended to use the entire composition at once.

Dry grout is more popular because it can be efficiently used for both small and large jobs. It is sold most often in paper bags, or plastic bags. All you need to do is take the right amount of powder from the bag and dilute it with latex or water. The rest you can hide and use for any other need, even if it comes in a couple of years. The most important thing is to keep the powder away from moisture, in a dry, dark place. Which of these tile grout is better is up to you.

As for the shortcomings, only instability to various kinds of pollution, as well as destruction under the influence of household chemicals, can be attributed here. This means that in order for the tiles and grout to be able to operate as long as possible, they do not need to be cleaned with detergents.

Epoxy grout

Some conditions can be a real test for cement grout, but epoxy grout can easily cope with them. It is perfect for use in places where tiles are constantly exposed to moisture, as well as for various household and chemicals... But epoxy grout also has its dark side. So, for example, a too viscous consistency can be attributed here, which makes it completely inconvenient to fill the seams between the tiles. Only true professionals in their field can work with such material.

In order to get a ready-made epoxy mixture, you need to mix two elements together: the epoxy resin itself and the hardener. At the time of purchase, both of these items are in different sealed containers, or bags.

Cement grout is one of the easiest options

After mixing, you get an elastic, but at the same time quite dense mass. As mentioned above, working with such material is quite difficult, so even professionals can spend several hours on this lesson. However, after the end renovation works you will get high-quality work, strength of seams and high moisture insulation. Many repair specialists believe that epoxy grout is better, and give their preference exclusively to it. Do not forget also that various coloring or shiny components can be added to such mastic, which will only enhance the decorative effect. So, let's list the advantages of an epoxy grout:

• it has high strength;
• durable;
• well resists various dirt;
• suppresses the development of fungus and mold;
• very resistant to cleaning with chemical detergents;
• is waterproof;
• has high decorative properties;

Do not forget that the widest palette of shades of epoxy grout gives you a unique opportunity to choose the most suitable color to cladding both tiles and.

As for the shortcomings, the main one is the difficulty of working with this material. Because of this, professional handlers sell their services quite expensively. And the fugue itself is not at all cheap, which is also weightless, but still a disadvantage.

Epoxy putty should be handled very carefully.

How to make the right choice

To buy grout, developers usually go to hardware stores, or to the vastness of the Internet, but in order to make right choice, you need to know in advance what to look for. So, you should draw your attention to the fact that not all types of protective components can be included in some cheap grout options. It is not at all scary if you have all these protective components. You just need to add them to the main composition of the mastic, and you can start doing the work. But what to do if they are not there? The answer is very simple - look for a more expensive grout in which all these elements are included.

Also, when choosing a grout, it is imperative to take into account what kind of coating it is intended for. An expensive and high-quality grout usually has such a property as versatility. This means that it can be used not only for grouting joints between tiles, but also for mosaics, concrete tiles, and even porcelain stoneware. Today you can find grout for joints between tiles in stores in any city. On the product market, you may come across both domestic and foreign brands of goods.

Sometimes it's not easy to figure it out among the huge variety of different brands. Some developers make their choice based on the popularity of one or another manufacturer's company, but doing so is not entirely correct. In order to choose the best grout for your bathroom, you need to spend a little time, read the composition and properties of various mastics, consult with the seller, and choose which of the proposed variety suits you best. There are specialists in specialized stores who are always ready to offer you their help.

We really hope that our article will help you choose the best tile grout for your bathroom. Remember, even such a small task as the choice of grout can be decisive at the final stage of the repair. After making the wrong choice, all your repairs can come to naught, after a short period of time. That is why it is necessary to delve into all the little things, and pay all your attention to the most insignificant tasks. Even if the grouting of the joints between the tiles is not done by you, but by specialist repairmen. Good luck with your bathroom decoration!