Grout Matters: How to Choose the Right Grout Type and Color for Your Tile Design

There’s a moment in every tile journey when the layout is finalized, the tile selected, and everything seems ready to go. But one subtle design decision still holds enormous power: grout.

In most cases, the best-performing grout is determined by spacing and surface. For wider grout lines (1/8 inch or more), sanded grout offers strength and longevity. Narrower lines or more delicate surfaces—like glass, polished stone, or mosaic tile—call for unsanded grout. In kitchens and bathrooms, or anywhere moisture and mess are part of the equation, epoxy grout provides unmatched durability and stain resistance.

As for color, the choice is part function, part style. If you want your tile to blend seamlessly, choose a grout color that closely matches. For definition, contrast is key—darker grout outlines shape, adds structure, and conceals everyday wear. The right grout doesn’t just fill a space; it frames the story.

Let’s dive deeper into the types, tones, and thoughtful techniques that will help your tile surface shine—beautifully and intentionally.

Grout: The Quiet Framework That Shapes Your Space

Grout has an unassuming role in most conversations about tile. But in reality, it’s the bridge between individual tiles, both literally and visually. The width of the grout line, the texture of the formula, and the color you select can elevate your space—or distract from it.

Whether you’re creating a soft, tonal bathroom wall with white tile, or a bold, geometric kitchen backsplash in a high-contrast pattern, grout plays a key role in how your eye reads the overall surface.

It’s a detail that’s easy to underestimate—and impossible to ignore once it’s in place.

Types of Grout: Matching Performance to Purpose

1. Cement Grout (Sanded and Unsanded)

This is your classic, go-to grout type—also known as traditional grout.

Sanded grout is ideal for wider grout spaces—typically 1/8 inch or more. The fine sand particles add strength and help prevent cracking over time. It works well on floors, shower surrounds, and other high-traffic areas.
Unsanded grout (also called non-sanded grout) is better for narrow joints (under 1/8 inch) or softer tile materials. Its smoother texture prevents scratching on surfaces like polished stone or delicate handmade tile.

Cement grout is relatively affordable, easy to work with, and available in a wide range of grout colors—making it a versatile choice for most residential projects.

2. Epoxy Grout

If you’re looking for serious durability, epoxy grout may be the best option. It’s resistant to moisture, harsh chemicals, and stains, making it a favorite for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces.

Its non-porous nature also means less maintenance over time. However, tile setters typically caution that epoxy can be trickier to install, requiring precision and a bit more effort to clean up excess during application. Using a grout float and a steady hand makes all the difference.

Grout Color: A Designer’s Secret Weapon

Choosing your grout color is as much a design decision as selecting your tile. It determines whether your tile surface will read as a unified whole or as a pattern of distinct shapes.

When to Match Grout and Tile

For a soft, seamless effect, match your grout to your tile. For example:

White grout with white tile creates an airy, clean look—ideal for minimalists.
With handmade tile, a tonal grout lets the texture and variation in the glaze shine.

This approach is calming and cohesive. It’s especially effective when you want the tile application to feel architectural and understated.

When to Contrast Grout and Tile

Using a darker grout against a light tile (or vice versa) highlights the tile’s shape and layout. This adds rhythm and movement to the space. It’s great for:

Subway tile in a stacked or offset pattern
Herringbone and chevron layouts
Bold backsplash tile arrangements

In addition to design impact, contrast can be practical—dark grout hides dirt, stains, and discoloration better than light alternatives.

Choosing Grout Based on Tile Size and Layout

Your tile size, layout, and pattern can inform the width of your grout line, which in turn determines which type of grout to use.

Large-format tiles benefit from thinner lines and a neutral tile grout that doesn’t distract.
Smaller tiles like mosaic tile often need wider grout lines to maintain proper spacing and balance.
Irregular or handmade tiles may naturally call for larger grout spaces, which can be celebrated as part of their charm.

In all cases, sample boards help. View your tile with different grout colors in natural light and low light. The right combination can completely shift the mood of the room.

Installation & Maintenance Notes: Tips for a Flawless Finish

Even the most beautiful grout color won’t shine if installation isn’t handled with care.

Use a grout float to apply evenly and press grout deep into joints.
Remove excess grout before it sets—especially important with epoxy grout.
Always start with a clean surface, and finish with a damp cloth or clean cloth to remove haze.

Avoid using harsh chemicals for routine cleaning; they can damage not only grout but the surrounding tile surface. For older installations, gently clean old grout with a pH-neutral cleaner before resealing or refreshing the lines.

FAQ: Answers to Common Grout Questions

What’s the difference between sanded and unsanded grout? Sanded grout contains fine sand particles, giving it a grittier texture and added strength. It’s the go-to choice for larger grout lines—typically 1/8 inch or more—because it holds up well to movement and pressure over time. It’s also ideal for tile floors, where foot traffic demands a more robust finish. Unsanded grout, also called non-sanded grout, has a smoother, creamier consistency and is better suited for narrow joints or softer surfaces like glass, marble, or handmade tile. It’s less likely to scratch and easier to work into tight spaces. For vertical installations like wall tile with tight joints, unsanded grout provides better adhesion and smoother results.

Which grout color should I choose? There’s no universal rule—only the effect you want to create. Matching the grout color to the tile (such as white grout with white tile) creates a seamless, calming finish where the tile pattern becomes subtle or secondary. This is often used in spa-style bathrooms or minimal kitchens. If you’re working with high-contrast tile or want to celebrate the layout, a darker grout introduces rhythm and energy to the composition. It also hides dirt and wear better, making it a smart choice in hardworking spaces. Still undecided? Lay out a few individual tiles with sample grout colors before finalizing. Lighting and tile variation can shift the effect more than you think.

Is epoxy grout worth the upgrade? In spaces exposed to moisture, food spills, or frequent cleaning—like showers, laundry rooms, or kitchen backsplashes—epoxy grout is often the best option. It’s non-porous, highly stain-resistant, and stands up to chemicals and scrubbing. Unlike cement grout, it doesn’t need sealing, which reduces maintenance long-term. However, epoxy grout can be tricky to work with. It sets quickly and requires careful cleanup using a clean cloth or damp cloth to avoid haze. If you’re not a seasoned tile setter, this is where a pro pays off.

What’s the best grout for a floor vs. a backsplash? For tile floors, especially in entryways, bathrooms, or kitchens, sanded grout or epoxy grout offers durability and flexibility. These formulas can handle weight, traffic, and the subtle movement that occurs in larger surfaces. For backsplashes, where style often leads and functionality supports, you have more options. Traditional grout (cement-based) works well, especially when sealed properly. But in spaces prone to splashes—like behind a stove—epoxy grout offers a clean, water-resistant finish that’s easy to maintain.

How can I avoid grout haze or staining? A clean install starts with a clean surface and the right tools. Use a grout float to pack the grout into the joints, then a putty knife to gently scrape off excess grout from the tile face before it begins to dry. Wipe the area with a damp cloth, working in gentle circles, then follow with a clean cloth once the haze lifts. If you’re using epoxy grout, be extra vigilant—once it sets, it can be difficult to remove without specialized products. For all grout types, sealing is recommended, especially for lighter tones like white grout, which can show stains more easily over time.

How do I choose grout for handmade or mosaic tile? Handmade and mosaic tile often feature irregular edges, organic textures, or delicate finishes that require thoughtful handling. For these, non-sanded grout is typically recommended to avoid scratching or overfilling narrow joints. Visually, grout can enhance the artisanal character of handmade tile. A tone-on-tone approach will let the tile speak for itself, while a contrasting grout color can highlight craftsmanship, edge variation, and texture. With mosaic tile, especially in intricate patterns, grout acts like negative space—so its hue has a powerful design impact.

Can I use the same grout for wall tile and floor tile? Sometimes, yes—but it depends on the project. For floor tile, you’ll want a grout with added strength—typically sanded grout or epoxy grout. Wall tile doesn’t face the same stress, so you can get away with a wider variety of options, including unsanded grout for a smoother finish on vertical surfaces. Always consider the tile size, spacing, and location before deciding.

How wide should my grout lines be? The width of your grout space depends on your tile’s material and intended look.

Rectified tiles or tight patterns look great with narrow joints (1/16″–1/8″) using unsanded grout.
Larger or irregular tiles often need wider joints (up to 3/8″) for proper alignment and flexibility, making sanded grout more appropriate. Talk to your tile setter about the entire project layout—sometimes even a slight shift in spacing can make a big visual difference.

Can I re-grout over old grout? It’s possible, but not always ideal. For best results, remove as much of the old grout as you can using a grout saw or rotary tool. This allows the new material—whether cement grout, epoxy grout, or otherwise—to bond properly. Simply covering up existing grout without prepping the surface can lead to cracking or uneven color.

Grout Is Part of the Art

It’s easy to see grout as a functional afterthought, but for thoughtful tile design, it’s part of the palette. The right grout doesn’t just hold tiles together—it brings the space together. From dark tile floors to tonal wall tile, it frames your story, guides your eye, and supports the emotion you want to evoke.

Take your time. Test samples. Trust your instincts. Because every detail matters—and grout is no exception.
Explore our curated tile collections to see how material, shape, and grout come together to create something extraordinary.