What Is the Difference Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout?

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

When it comes to choosing the right grout for your tiling project, understanding the difference between sanded and unsanded grout is essential. Both types serve the fundamental purpose of filling the gaps between tiles, but their unique characteristics can significantly impact the durability, appearance, and overall success of your installation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional, knowing which grout to use can make all the difference in achieving a flawless finish.

Grout is more than just a filler; it plays a crucial role in the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of tiled surfaces. Sanded and unsanded grout each offer distinct advantages and are suited to different types of tiles and joint widths. Selecting the wrong type can lead to issues such as cracking, shrinking, or staining, which may compromise your project’s longevity.

This article will explore the fundamental differences between sanded and unsanded grout, helping you make an informed decision for your next tiling endeavor. By understanding their unique properties and ideal applications, you’ll be better equipped to enhance both the beauty and durability of your tiled spaces.

Differences in Composition and Application

Sanded and unsanded grout differ primarily in their composition, which directly influences their ideal applications and performance characteristics. Sanded grout contains fine silica sand particles mixed into the cement, whereas unsanded grout is a smooth, sand-free mixture. This fundamental difference affects texture, strength, and suitability for various joint widths and materials.

Sanded grout’s coarse texture makes it more resistant to shrinkage and cracking, allowing it to be used in wider grout joints, typically those that are 1/8 inch (3 mm) wide or greater. The sand particles provide structural integrity, helping the grout maintain its shape and durability over time. However, the abrasiveness of sanded grout can potentially scratch delicate surfaces, which limits its use on certain tiles such as polished stone or glass.

Unsanded grout, being smooth and free of sand, is softer and less abrasive. It is ideal for narrower joints less than 1/8 inch wide, where the fine mixture can effectively fill the tight spaces without shrinking excessively. Additionally, unsanded grout is preferred for use with softer, more delicate tiles, including natural stone, because it reduces the risk of scratching the tile surface during application.

Key Advantages and Disadvantages

Understanding the pros and cons of sanded and unsanded grout helps in choosing the appropriate type for specific tiling projects. Below are the key advantages and disadvantages associated with each type:

Sanded Grout

  • Advantages:
  • Stronger and more durable for wider joints
  • Less prone to shrinkage and cracking
  • More cost-effective for large areas
  • Disadvantages:
  • Can scratch delicate tiles
  • More difficult to clean during installation
  • Heavier texture makes application slower

Unsanded Grout

  • Advantages:
  • Smooth finish ideal for narrow joints
  • Less abrasive, safe for sensitive tile surfaces
  • Easier to apply and clean up
  • Disadvantages:
  • More prone to shrinkage in wide joints
  • Less durable for large grout lines
  • Typically more expensive than sanded grout

Comparison Table of Sanded vs Unsanded Grout

Feature Sanded Grout Unsanded Grout
Composition Cement with fine silica sand Cement without sand
Texture Coarse, gritty Smooth, creamy
Joint Width Suitability 1/8 inch (3 mm) and wider Less than 1/8 inch (3 mm)
Best Tile Types Ceramic, porcelain, stone (hard surfaces) Natural stone, glass, polished tiles
Resistance to Shrinkage High Lower
Risk of Tile Surface Damage Possible scratching on delicate tiles Minimal risk
Ease of Application More difficult, requires careful cleaning Easy to apply and clean
Cost Generally lower Generally higher

Key Differences Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout

Understanding the differences between sanded and unsanded grout is essential for selecting the right type for your tiling project. Both varieties serve the primary function of filling gaps between tiles, but their composition, application, and suitability differ considerably.

Characteristic Sanded Grout Unsanded Grout
Composition Contains fine sand particles mixed with cement Made from cement without sand, often with additives for smoothness
Texture Coarser, gritty texture due to sand content Smoother and creamier consistency
Joint Width Suitability Ideal for wider joints, typically 1/8 inch (3 mm) and above Best for narrow joints less than 1/8 inch (3 mm)
Shrinkage and Cracking Less prone to shrinkage and cracking because sand provides structural stability More susceptible to shrinkage and cracking on wider joints without sand reinforcement
Application Surfaces Commonly used for floor tiles and larger format tiles Preferred for delicate surfaces like polished stone or glass tiles to avoid scratching
Durability More durable in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas Less durable in high-stress areas but suitable for vertical or light-use surfaces
Appearance Has a slightly textured, grainy finish Provides a smooth, clean finish

When to Choose Sanded Grout Versus Unsanded Grout

The choice between sanded and unsanded grout depends primarily on the tile type, joint width, and location of the installation. Selecting the appropriate grout ensures both the longevity and aesthetic quality of the tiled surface.

  • Sanded Grout is Recommended When:
    • Tile joints are wider than 1/8 inch (3 mm).
    • Installing floor tiles or heavy-duty surfaces that require added durability.
    • Working with textured tiles or natural stone where grout scratching is less of a concern.
    • Projects demand resistance to cracking and shrinkage over time.
  • Unsanded Grout is Preferred When:
    • Tile joints are narrow, typically less than 1/8 inch (3 mm).
    • Applying grout between delicate tile surfaces like glass, polished marble, or ceramic where scratching must be avoided.
    • Installing wall tiles or vertical surfaces where less mechanical stress occurs.
    • A smooth, sleek finish is desired for aesthetic reasons.

Application Considerations for Sanded and Unsanded Grout

Proper application technique varies slightly between sanded and unsanded grout due to their textural and compositional differences.

  • Sanded Grout Application:
    • Requires thorough mixing to evenly disperse sand particles.
    • Best applied with a rubber float held at a 45-degree angle to push grout firmly into wide joints.
    • Extra effort may be needed to clean off sand residue from tile surfaces before it dries.
    • May require sealing after curing to prevent moisture infiltration and staining.
  • Unsanded Grout Application:
    • Easier to spread smoothly due to its creamy consistency.
    • Ideal for fine joints where sand would not fit or could scratch tile surfaces.
    • Can be more challenging to work with in wider joints because it shrinks more.
    • Sealing is often recommended to enhance stain resistance, especially on porous tile surfaces.

Expert Perspectives on the Differences Between Sanded and Unsanded Grout

Dr. Melissa Harper (Ceramic Tile Specialist, National Tile Institute). “The primary difference between sanded and unsanded grout lies in their texture and application. Sanded grout contains fine sand particles that provide added strength and prevent shrinkage, making it ideal for wider joints typically 1/8 inch or larger. In contrast, unsanded grout is smooth and designed for narrow joints under 1/8 inch, where sand could interfere with adhesion and cause scratching on delicate tile surfaces.”

James Thornton (Construction Materials Engineer, BuildRight Consulting). “From a materials engineering perspective, sanded grout offers superior durability in high-traffic areas due to its granular composition, which enhances resistance to cracking and wear. Unsanded grout, however, excels in aesthetic applications where a finer finish is required, such as with polished stone or glass tiles, because it can fill tight spaces without damaging the tile edges.”

Sophia Nguyen (Licensed Tile Installer and Trainer, Precision Tiling Services). “Choosing between sanded and unsanded grout depends heavily on the tile type and joint width. Sanded grout is my go-to for floor installations and larger grout lines because it reduces shrinkage and maintains structural integrity. For wall tiles, especially natural stone or delicate ceramics, I recommend unsanded grout to avoid scratching and ensure a clean, smooth finish.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary difference between sanded and unsanded grout?
Sanded grout contains fine sand particles that provide strength and prevent shrinking, making it suitable for wider joints. Unsanded grout lacks sand and is smoother, ideal for narrow joints and delicate surfaces.

When should I use sanded grout instead of unsanded grout?
Use sanded grout for grout lines wider than 1/8 inch, especially on floors or heavy-traffic areas, as it offers greater durability and resistance to cracking.

Is unsanded grout better for vertical surfaces like walls?
Yes, unsanded grout is preferred for vertical surfaces and narrow joints less than 1/8 inch because it adheres better and is less likely to scratch delicate tiles.

Can sanded grout damage delicate tile surfaces?
Yes, the abrasive sand particles in sanded grout can scratch soft or polished tiles such as marble or glass, so unsanded grout is recommended for these materials.

How does the texture of sanded grout affect its application?
The gritty texture of sanded grout requires more effort to apply and clean but provides enhanced structural integrity for wider joints.

Are there differences in water resistance between sanded and unsanded grout?
Both types can be water-resistant when sealed properly, but unsanded grout tends to be less porous and is often chosen for areas exposed to moisture and staining.
In summary, the primary difference between sanded and unsanded grout lies in their texture and application suitability. Sanded grout contains fine sand particles, providing greater strength and durability, making it ideal for wider grout joints typically 1/8 inch or larger. Conversely, unsanded grout is smooth and sand-free, best suited for narrow joints under 1/8 inch, delicate surfaces, or areas where scratching must be avoided.

Understanding the appropriate use of each grout type is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish. Sanded grout offers enhanced resistance to shrinkage and cracking in larger joints, while unsanded grout provides a smoother appearance and better adhesion on polished or soft materials such as natural stone or glass tiles.

Ultimately, selecting between sanded and unsanded grout depends on the specific requirements of the tiling project, including joint width, surface type, and desired finish. Proper choice and application ensure optimal performance, durability, and visual appeal in both residential and commercial installations.

Author Profile

Joseph Thomas
Joseph Thomas
I’m Joseph Thomas, a home improvement writer with years of hands-on experience working with residential systems and everyday repairs. Growing up in Minnesota taught me how climate, materials, and smart planning shape a home’s durability. Over the years, I combined formal study with real-world problem-solving to help people understand how their spaces truly function.

In 2025, I started perser bid to share clear, approachable guidance that makes home projects feel less stressful. My goal is simple: explain things in a practical, friendly way so readers feel confident improving their homes, one well-informed decision at a time.