- Kohler Highline vs Cimarron: Which Toilet Design Is Better? - March 20, 2021
- Elkay Sinks Review: Which Model Is Best for Your Kitchen? - March 15, 2021
- Cal Faucets Review: Which Design Suits Best Your Space? - March 15, 2021
Grout is a product that is used to fill the gaps between the tiles. The majority of the grouts are a mixture of lime, cement, color pigment, and sand. It gets hard when you mix it with water. Choosing the best grout for your shower will ensure that you have a superior finished look.
For your bathroom to look extraordinarily clean, you need the best grout for showers. It is an integral part as far as installing tiles is concerned. You cannot avoid using it when building your bathroom.
What are the benefits of grout?
The product is as essential as the tile you are using. Some people say that the tile is more crucial than the grout, but that is not the case. Without both of them, your bathroom will not have a stunning appearance, and it might get destroyed within a short period. The following are some of the grout benefits:
- Grout is ideal for protecting your floors and walls from water drainage. If the water gets into gaps between the tiles, it will compromise your walls and floors’ quality
- It helps ensure that your tile installation is rigid and firm, allowing it to serve you for an extended period
- This product keeps away debris and dirt to get under and in between the tiles
Choosing the best grout for your shower is essential. It will ensure that your tile installation is strong and gives you a superb appearance.
Types of Grout
There are various types of grout, as discussed below:
Sanded grout
It has large sand particles and is ideal for wide grout joints. The sand offers additional bonding power, preventing cracking. You should use this product when the grout joint is 1/8-inch or more.
Sanded grout is suitable for ceilings, walls, and floors. It is less expensive and comes with a variety of colors for you to choose from. Most prefer it due to its aesthetic value. However, it is essential to note that the unit can scratch the tiles; hence be careful when using it on premium tiles.
Unsanded grout
The product does not have any sand, and it is ideal for small grout lines and highly polished tiles. It has a fine texture since it is cement-based, making it easier to use it on vertical surfaces.
Unsanded grout has no silica aggregates, allowing it to be the best choice for scratchable and fragile surfaces. Therefore, it is perfect when used with marble, ceramic, metal, glass, and natural stone tiles.
The unit is a bit expensive compared to sanded grout and has no many colors to choose from. It can crack when you use it on large seams.
Epoxy grout
This product is a bit different from other types of grout. It contains silica fillers, resins, hardener, and pigments. The unit is less porous and a perfect choice in the kitchen or areas with greases and acids. It withstands water and prevents mold and bacteria formation.
The product dries very fast after being applied and comes in the form of sanded and unsanded grouts. It is more expensive compared to other types of grouts. This type of grout does not require sealing. It is hygienic, and cleaning your bathroom is easier and fast.
Tips for choosing the best grout for your shower
Everyone wants sparkling walls and floors. For you to achieve this, there are some tips you need to know that will help you select the best grout for your shower. Here are some of the factors you need to consider.
1. Type of grout
Grout falls under two main categories: cementitious and synthetic. Synthetic grout is the most ideal for areas with much water, such as bathrooms and kitchens. It perfectly seals and prevents your walls and floors from unwanted water, mold, and bacteria. The unit also helps in appearance preservation, allowing it to last for an extended period.
On the other hand, cementitious grout is ideal for areas where water is not a problem.
2. Grout color
Everyone has his/her preferred color, but despite all, what you need is a color that will make your walls and floors look extremely beautiful. Selecting the color of the grout solely depends on the tiles’ color you intend to use. Here are some of the tricks you need to use to choose the correct grout color:
If the tiles you have installed are white, it is advisable not to use white grout. This is because they will change the color overtime despite looking great at the beginning. Also, they need regular maintenance and cleaning for you to maintain their look. Therefore, when your tiles are white, it is recommended you use a light gray grout. This will give you a cohesive appearance and maintain its color for a long period.
In case your tiles comprise various patterns, you will have a wide variety of colors to choose from. You can select one color from the tile and use it to match your grout color.
It is essential to note that darker grouts are perfect for floor tiles, while light-colored grouts are suitable for wall tiles. They show all stains, dirt, and any tear and wear. Remember, the grout color you select will have a significant impact as far as your house look is concerned.
3. Grout lines
Grout lines are another vital factor to consider when choosing the grout to use. If the line is 1/8-inch and over, sanded grout is the most recommended. It will help to fill the big gaps and make them harder.
For grout lines that are less than 1/8-inch, it is advisable to use unsanded grout. This is because its binding power is a bit less, and it courses cracks when used on broad grout lines.
4. Mold resistance
It is good to know that an excellent grout for your bathroom should protect from mildew and mold formation. This is because your bathroom is a warm and damp place, allowing the mold to form quickly. You need to find a product that will ensure it prevents this formation. This is easy as you will search for grout that is meant for the bathroom.
5. Waterproof
Almost all grouts for the shower are waterproof. However, you need to be more careful so that you don’t make mistakes. Water-resistant grouts are not the same as waterproof grouts. The best products for the bathroom are waterproof epoxy grouts. It is fully waterproof after being cured, high moisture resistance, and maintains a cohesive look for an extended period.
6. Maintenance
Although many people do not put this factor into consideration, it is very crucial. Shower grouts are prone to water and soap; hence need regular cleaning. To clean your bathroom, you will need to use some cleaning products. This might damage the grout when used for an extended period.
Before purchasing any product, ensure you read the fine print to see how to clean it and if it’s convenient and safe for you. Some grouts require some special cleaning products, which may be costly.
7. Curing time
Grouts take independent time to cure. This depends on the manufacturer. Some take a minimum of four hours to cure fully, while others take as long as 12 hours. If you have limited time for modeling your bathroom, you can choose the grout that takes a short time to cure. To know the curing time of the grout, check the fine product print.
Best Grout for Shower Reviews
Your bathroom will look clean and beautiful if you use the best grout for the shower. The product helps to prevent mildew and mold formation. Most grouts are water-resistant, making them ideal for damp surfaces.
Choosing the best product, we will consider the time it takes to cure, adhesion, versatility, water-resistant, mold-resistant, and durability.
Grouts come in various types, and selecting the best is not an easy task. The following are among the best grouts for the shower:
1. Red Devil 0425 Pre-Mixed Tile Grout Squeeze Tube, 5.5 oz, White
Do you want an elegant and beautiful bathroom? Search no more. Red Devil 0425 Pre-Mixed Tile Grout is an excellent choice for you. It can be mixed with some dyes and acrylic paint to ensure you get a stunning color.
The grout is pre-mixed, allowing you to use it immediately you buy without further mixing. It is ideal for grouting mosaic and ceramic tiles. The product adheres well to wallboard, wood, and masonry. It is a perfect match for existing and new tile installation. Using this grout is exemplary and dries very fast.
Features
- It has a thin applicator head
- White in color
- Has pre-mixed formula
- Comes with a squeeze tube
Pros
- It is water and mildew resistant
- Easy water clean-up
- Superior adhesion and durability
- It dries quickly
- It’s simple and easy to apply
- User-friendly consistency
- It’s versatile
Cons
- Peels off and crack faster
2. Custom PMG165QT 1-Quart Simple Premium Grout, Delorean Gray
This is a no-mess grout since it is pre-mixed and can be applied immediately after buying. It comes in gray color though you can get it in other different colors. The unit is in a bigger bucket, making it ideal for large projects. This grout is suitable for joints from 1/16-1/2-inch.
The product is a perfect match for mosaic, ceramic, stone tile, porcelain, granite, and marble tiles. It is suitable for wet areas like shower walls, floors, and tub surrounds.
The grout is stain-resistant; hence it does not require frequent maintenance. It does not shrink or crack easily, making it sturdy and durable. Applying this product is super easy, and it is suitable for grout restoration.
Features
- It has Delorean gray color
- Protected by mold-guard technology
- Has a crack and shrink-resistant formula
Pros
- It has a wide variety of colors
- Stain-resistant
- Pre-mixed ready to use
- Durable and great consistency
Cons
- It’s porous
- It has a flimsy packaging
3. Red Devil 0438 House & Home Restore Tile Grout, 1-Pack, White
This is one of the high-quality tile grout that will leave your bathroom with stunning beauty. Applying it is a breeze using its applicator tube. It is pre-mixed; hence it gives you no mess, or you didn’t follow the mixing instructions correctly.
It comes in white color, but if you want an exemplary color, you can mix it with acrylic paint, allowing you to have a color of your choice. The unit properly adheres to wood, masonry, and wallboard. It is water-resistant, letting it to repair cracked, loose, and damaged mosaic and ceramic tiles.
You can wind up the grout as you continue working, thanks to the patented EZ SQUEEZE tube. This ensures that none of the product goes to waste. It is also mildew-resistant.
Features
- It has a white color
- EZ SQUEEZE tube
- Comes in one pack
- Premix formula
Pros
- It is easy to apply
- Mildew and water-resistant
- Highly waterproof with sealing properties
- It’s versatile
Cons
- The grout is prone to peeling
- The lines are rough
4. SpectraLOCK Pro Premium Grout AB Full Unit / Requires 9 LB (4.1 kg)
Are you looking for a waterproof grout for your shower? SpectraLOCK Pro Premium Grout is a perfect choice for you. It is fully waterproof when it cures completely. This makes it ideal for fountains, swimming pools, bathrooms, and other wet surfaces. It also has antimicrobial properties that help to prevent mildew and mold formation.
The grout will give you tremendous results that you will like. It is easy to apply and takes only 30 minutes to cure. It utilizes the non-sag formula that is easier to install, giving you attractive, full grout joints. This makes it more convenient where time is limited. It requires minimal maintenance and cleaning. The unit is ideal for fixing peeled grout in your bathroom.
The product is mildew-resistant and stain-resistant, allowing your bathroom to look sleek and cleaner. It does not require resealing like the case of other grout.
Features
- It has color uniformity
- Waterproof
- Pre-mixed formula
Pros
- It is simple and easy to apply
- Dries very fast, making it an ideal choice for a fast tile installation
- Comes in different colors
- Prevent mildew formation
- It’s durable
Cons
- There is a likelihood of getting the wrong composition, especially if you are not keen
- You must be faster since it dries very quickly
5. Red Devil 0424 Pre-Mixed Tile Grout, 1-Quart, White
This is a unique and high-quality grout that will give you excellent results. It will make your bathroom sparkling clean and beautiful. If you want your bathroom walls and floors to have a new look, get Red Devil 0424 Pre-Mixed Tile Grout and see the difference. It comes in 1-Quart, making it enough for your entire bathroom.
The product is pre-mixed; saving you time and energy you could have used in mixing. It also offers user-friendly consistency for improved durability. The unit is acrylic based such that you can mix it with other paints to get a stunning color of your choice.
You can easily clean it using water and soap. It has a water-resistant element, and it’s suitable for mosaic and ceramic tiles. The grout is also mold and mildew-resistant, making it more convenient when you use it around shower valves.
Applying this product is super simple with do-it-yourself ease. After you use it, ensure you remove the bulk before it dries.
Features
- It has a white color
- Pre-mix formula
- It is acrylic based
Pros
- The unit provides excellent adhesion
- It’s water-resistant
- It’s versatile
- It is easy to apply
- It’s durable
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- The product is a bit expensive
- It takes longer to cure
6. SGA 6 – Super Grout Additive Premium Waterproof Tile Grout Repair and Adhesive
Are you looking for a tile grout repair? Search no more. SGA 6 – Super Grout Additive Premium Waterproof Tile Grout Repair and Adhesive an excellent is choice for you. This is the best grout repair for showers. It’s perfect when you use it in kitchen counters, tub showers, and grout corners.
Both homeowners and professionals can apply the product. This is because it is easy to apply and comes with an applying kit, which includes mixing cups and sticks, and an applicator.
The unit does not crack and needs no sealing. You can apply it to old, existing, new, and damaged grout. It is 100% waterproof and will last for an extended period.
Features
- It is white
- 100% waterproof
- Never require sealing
Pros
- It is easy to apply
- It does not crack
- Mildew and water-resistant
- Highly waterproof
- It’s versatile
Cons
- It needs mixing
FAQs
Question: Is the sandpaper ideal for removing excess grout?
Answer: NO, sandpaper cannot be used to get rid of excess grout. It may remove more grout and get the sealant that seals the tile out. You may end up starting from scratch. For you to remove excess grout, it is advisable to use a soft sponge that will not destroy the tile.
Question: Can I apply new grout on top of the old one?
Answer: Although many people are used to doing this, this is not the right way. You should first remove the old grout and then apply the new grout even if there is a high possibility that the new grout will not stick on top of the old grout. This might lead to peeling off in a few days to come.
Question: What is the best grout for use near the shower?
Answer: The best grout to use near the shower is epoxy grout. It is water-resistant, and you don’t need to seal it frequently since it is a natural sealant.
Question: How long should I wait before I apply the grout?
Answer: If you are regrouting the gaps between your tiles, then you can start as soon as you remove the old grout. In case you have changed your tiles, the appropriate waiting time is at least 24 hours. Waiting for this long will allow the tinsel to get dry, such that no humidity is trapped underneath.
Question: Is it okay to clean the dirty grout instead of removing it?
Answer: Yes, it’s quiet in order. This is because it is cost-effective to clean the dirty grout instead of re-grouting. You only need to be a bit careful with the cleaning products you are using so that you do not damage the grout.
Conclusion
Grouts for the shower are essential as they give your bathroom a better look. They also help to prevent mildew and mold formation. Most of them are waterproof, making them ideal for tub showers. The majority of grouts are easy to apply and durable.
Red Devil 0425 Pre-Mixed Tile Grout Squeeze Tube, 5.5 oz, White is my recommendation for the best grout for the shower. This is because the product has a lot of great features and many advantages.
It is premixed, allowing you to use it immediately after buying without further mixing. The unit is ideal for grouting mosaic and ceramic tiles. It adheres well to wallboard, wood, and masonry. The product is a perfect match for existing and new tile installation. Using this grout is exemplary and dries very fast.