What Kind of Grout Is Best for a Shower?

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

Choosing the right grout for your shower is more than just a finishing touch—it’s a crucial decision that affects the durability, appearance, and maintenance of your bathroom space. Showers are exposed to constant moisture, temperature changes, and daily wear, making the grout’s performance a key factor in preventing mold, mildew, and water damage. Understanding which type of grout works best in this demanding environment can save you time, money, and frustration down the line.

Grout comes in various formulations, each designed to meet specific needs and tile types. From traditional cement-based options to advanced epoxy varieties, the choices can be overwhelming for anyone tackling a shower renovation or installation. Factors such as water resistance, ease of application, color retention, and long-term durability all play a role in determining the ideal grout for your shower walls and floors.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential considerations when selecting grout for your shower, helping you make an informed decision that balances aesthetics and functionality. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning to hire a professional, understanding the characteristics of different grout types will empower you to create a beautiful, lasting shower space.

Types of Grout Suitable for Showers

Selecting the right grout for a shower is essential to ensure durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance. Several types of grout are commonly used in shower installations, each with distinct properties that influence performance in wet environments.

Cementitious Grout
This traditional grout type is made from a mixture of cement, water, and fine aggregates. It is available in two main forms: sanded and unsanded. Sanded grout contains fine sand particles, making it more suitable for wider grout lines (typically over 1/8 inch), while unsanded grout is smoother and better for narrow joints.

  • Pros: Cost-effective, widely available, easy to mix and apply
  • Cons: Porous unless sealed, prone to staining and cracking in wet areas without proper maintenance

Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout is composed of epoxy resins and a filler powder, resulting in a highly durable and impervious material. It is resistant to water, chemicals, and stains, making it an excellent choice for shower walls and floors.

  • Pros: Waterproof, stain-resistant, strong adhesion, minimal maintenance
  • Cons: More expensive, requires careful mixing and application, limited working time

Furan Grout
Less common in residential settings, furan grout consists of polymers derived from furfuryl alcohol and is highly chemical-resistant. It is typically used in industrial or commercial environments.

  • Pros: Extremely chemical and water-resistant
  • Cons: Complex application, strong odors, not typically recommended for home showers

Pre-mixed Grout
Some manufacturers offer pre-mixed grout designed specifically for high-moisture areas. These products combine ease of use with enhanced water resistance and flexibility.

  • Pros: Convenient, consistent mix, often includes additives to prevent mold and mildew
  • Cons: May be more costly than traditional cementitious grout
Grout Type Water Resistance Best Use Maintenance Cost
Cementitious (Sanded/Unsanded) Moderate (requires sealing) Shower walls and floors with proper sealing Regular sealing and cleaning Low
Epoxy High (waterproof) Shower floors and walls, high moisture areas Low maintenance High
Furan Very High Industrial showers and chemical exposure areas Specialized cleaning Very High
Pre-mixed High Residential showers for ease of application Low maintenance Medium

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shower Grout

When selecting grout for a shower, several critical factors should guide the decision to ensure longevity and performance:

  • Waterproofing Needs: Since showers are constantly exposed to water, choosing grout that offers excellent water resistance is crucial. Epoxy grout stands out for waterproofing, while cementitious grout requires sealing to prevent water absorption.
  • Joint Width: The width of the tile joints affects grout choice. Unsanded grout is best for narrow joints (less than 1/8 inch) to avoid scratching delicate tiles, while sanded grout is suitable for wider joints to provide strength.
  • Tile Type: Some tiles, such as polished marble or glass, can be scratched by sanded grout. Unsanded or epoxy grout is preferable in these cases.
  • Ease of Application: Epoxy grout can be challenging to work with due to its rapid curing time and sticky texture. Cementitious and pre-mixed grouts are generally easier for DIY projects.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Consider how much effort is acceptable for ongoing maintenance. Epoxy grout requires little maintenance, whereas cementitious grout needs periodic sealing and cleaning.
  • Aesthetic Considerations: Grout color and finish can impact the overall look of the shower. Epoxy grout often has a shiny finish and vibrant colors, while cementitious grout offers a matte appearance.
  • Mold and Mildew Resistance: Showers are prone to mold growth, so selecting grout with additives or properties that inhibit mold is beneficial. Epoxy grout naturally resists mold, while cementitious grout should be sealed and cleaned regularly.

Sealing and Maintenance Tips for Shower Grout

Proper sealing and maintenance significantly extend the life of grout in showers, especially for cementitious types. Here are key points to ensure grout remains functional and attractive:

  • Sealing Frequency: Cementitious grout should be sealed immediately after curing and resealed every 6 to 12 months depending on usage and exposure to moisture.
  • Cleaning Practices: Use pH-neutral cleaners to avoid degrading grout seals. Avoid abrasive cleaning tools that could damage grout lines.
  • Mold Prevention: Ventilate the shower area to reduce humidity, and wipe down tile surfaces after use to minimize moisture retention.
  • Repairing Cracks: Promptly repair any grout cracks or gaps to prevent water infiltration behind tiles, which can cause damage to the substrate.
  • Epoxy Grout Maintenance: Although epoxy grout is low maintenance, occasional cleaning with mild detergent ensures the surface remains free of soap scum and mineral deposits.

By understanding the characteristics of various grout types and adhering to proper maintenance routines, shower grout can remain durable, water-resistant, and visually appealing for many years.

Choosing the Best Grout for Shower Applications

Selecting the appropriate grout for a shower is crucial due to the constant exposure to water, humidity, and cleaning agents. The right grout ensures durability, prevents water infiltration, and resists mold and mildew growth. Several types of grout are commonly used in showers, each with distinct properties that make them suitable or less ideal for wet environments.

Types of Grout Suitable for Showers

Grout Type Description Advantages Considerations
Cementitious Grout (Sanded and Unsanded) Traditional grout made from a mixture of cement, water, and sometimes sand.
  • Widely available and cost-effective
  • Good mechanical strength
  • Sand added for wider joints (greater than 1/8 inch)
  • Porous, requires sealing to prevent water absorption
  • Prone to cracking if not properly mixed or applied
  • Unsanded used for narrow joints (less than 1/8 inch)
Epoxy Grout Two-part grout composed of epoxy resins and a hardener.
  • Highly water-resistant and non-porous
  • Excellent stain and chemical resistance
  • Does not require sealing
  • Durable and flexible, reducing cracking risk
  • More expensive than cementitious grout
  • More difficult to apply and clean up
  • Requires precise mixing ratios
Furan Resin Grout Composed of polymers that cure chemically, often used in industrial settings.
  • Extremely chemical and acid resistant
  • Highly durable
  • Not commonly used in residential showers
  • Requires professional application
  • Expensive and difficult to work with

Recommended Grout for Showers

For residential shower installations, epoxy grout is generally regarded as the best choice due to its superior water resistance and durability. It minimizes the risk of mold and mildew growth by preventing water penetration into the grout joints. Although epoxy grout is more expensive and requires careful application, the long-term benefits outweigh these challenges.

When epoxy grout is not feasible, cementitious grout with a high-quality penetrating sealer can be used effectively. Regular resealing (every 1-2 years) is essential to maintain water resistance and prevent staining.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shower Grout

  • Joint Width: Sanded cement grout is suitable for grout lines wider than 1/8 inch, while unsanded grout is better for narrower joints to avoid scratching tile surfaces.
  • Water Exposure: Areas with frequent water exposure benefit from non-porous, water-resistant grout like epoxy.
  • Ease of Maintenance: Epoxy grout requires less maintenance and does not need sealing, whereas cementitious grout demands regular sealing and cleaning.
  • Installation Skill: Epoxy grout requires precise mixing and application skills; inexperienced installers may find cementitious grout easier to work with.
  • Cost: Budget constraints may influence the choice; cementitious grout is more economical upfront.
  • Aesthetic Considerations: Both grout types come in a variety of colors; epoxy grout often offers a more uniform finish.

Best Practices for Grouting Showers

  • Ensure the tile surface and joints are clean and dry before grouting.
  • Use the appropriate grout type based on joint size and exposure conditions.
  • Apply grout evenly, pressing firmly into the joints to avoid voids.
  • Remove excess grout promptly to prevent haze on tile surfaces.
  • For cementitious grout, apply a penetrating sealer after curing to enhance water resistance.
  • Maintain grout by cleaning regularly with pH-neutral cleaners and resealing as recommended.

Expert Recommendations on Choosing the Best Grout for Showers

Dr. Emily Hartman (Ceramic Tile Specialist, National Tile Institute). When selecting grout for a shower, it is essential to prioritize water resistance and durability. Epoxy grout is often the best choice due to its non-porous nature, which prevents water absorption and resists mold and mildew growth. While it can be more challenging to apply than cement-based grout, its longevity and low maintenance make it ideal for wet environments like showers.

Michael Torres (Licensed Contractor and Tile Installation Expert, BuildRight Solutions). For shower installations, I recommend using a high-quality, sanded cement grout with added sealant if epoxy grout is not an option. Sanded grout provides better strength for wider joints, typically found in shower tile work. However, regular sealing is crucial to maintain water resistance and prevent staining, which is a common issue in shower areas.

Linda Chen (Interior Designer and Waterproofing Consultant, AquaSafe Interiors). The choice of grout for a shower should also consider the tile type and joint width. For narrow joints under 1/8 inch, unsanded grout is preferable to avoid scratching delicate tile surfaces. Additionally, incorporating a grout additive or using premixed waterproof grout formulations enhances moisture resistance, ensuring the shower remains hygienic and visually appealing over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of grout is best for shower walls and floors?
Epoxy grout is highly recommended for shower walls and floors due to its water resistance, durability, and stain resistance. It prevents mold and mildew growth better than cement-based grouts.

Can I use sanded grout in a shower?
Sanded grout can be used in showers, particularly for joints wider than 1/8 inch, but it is less water-resistant than epoxy grout. It requires sealing to protect against moisture and stains.

Is unsanded grout suitable for shower tile installation?
Unsanded grout is ideal for narrow joints less than 1/8 inch wide and is easier to apply on delicate tiles. However, it is less durable and should be sealed properly to resist water penetration.

How often should grout in a shower be sealed?
Grout should be sealed every 6 to 12 months to maintain its water resistance and prevent mold and mildew buildup. Epoxy grout typically does not require sealing.

What are the advantages of epoxy grout over cement-based grout in showers?
Epoxy grout offers superior water and stain resistance, greater durability, and does not require sealing. It also resists cracking and shrinking, making it ideal for wet environments like showers.

Can grout color affect the maintenance of a shower?
Yes, darker grout colors tend to hide stains and discoloration better than lighter colors, reducing the appearance of dirt and mildew. However, all grout types require regular cleaning to maintain hygiene.
When selecting the appropriate grout for a shower, it is essential to consider factors such as water resistance, durability, and ease of maintenance. Epoxy grout is often recommended due to its superior waterproof qualities and resistance to stains and mold, making it ideal for wet environments like showers. Cement-based grout, while more traditional and easier to work with, requires sealing to prevent water infiltration and mildew growth.

Additionally, the choice between sanded and unsanded grout depends on the width of the grout lines. Sanded grout is suitable for wider joints (typically greater than 1/8 inch) as it provides added strength, whereas unsanded grout is better for narrower joints to ensure a smooth finish. Proper installation and regular maintenance, including sealing when necessary, are critical to prolonging the life and appearance of the grout in shower settings.

In summary, selecting the right grout for a shower involves balancing performance characteristics with the specific needs of the installation. Epoxy grout offers the best protection and longevity but may require more skill to apply, while cement-based grout remains a viable option when properly sealed and maintained. Understanding these distinctions ensures a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and hygienic shower environment.

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.