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Unsanded Grout
What is Unsanded Grout?
A smooth cement-based grout without sand aggregate, designed for narrow tile joints typically 1/8 inch or less in width.
Description
Unsanded grout is a smooth cement-based grout without sand aggregate, designed for narrow tile joints typically 1/8 inch or less in width, serving as an essential tile installation material that provides a refined finish for closely spaced tiles while preventing damage to delicate tile surfaces. This specialized grouting material consists of Portland cement, water, and various additives without the sand particles found in sanded grout, creating a smooth, creamy consistency that flows easily into narrow spaces and cures to a dense, non-abrasive surface. Unsanded grout is a critical component in tile installations where it fills and seals narrow joints, provides structural support between tiles, prevents water infiltration, and creates smooth, attractive joint lines, making it indispensable for natural stone installations, glass tile applications, polished surfaces, and any tile work where narrow joints and non-abrasive properties are essential.
Unsanded grout is utilized in various tile installation applications including natural stone tiles where sand particles could scratch polished surfaces like marble, granite, or limestone, glass tile installations where abrasive materials could damage the tile surface, mosaic work where small tiles create very narrow grout lines, wall tile applications where joints are typically narrower than floor installations, decorative tile work where smooth grout lines enhance the overall appearance, and specialty installations including metal tiles, mirror tiles, and other surfaces that could be damaged by abrasive grout materials. Each application requires proper grout selection based on joint width, tile material, and environmental conditions.
The composition and properties of unsanded grout include Portland cement as the primary binding agent, polymer additives that improve flexibility and adhesion, water retention agents that control curing and prevent premature drying, colorants that provide consistent color throughout the joint, and various admixtures that enhance workability and performance. The absence of sand creates a smooth texture that won’t scratch delicate surfaces while providing adequate strength for narrow joints that don’t require the additional bulk and strength provided by sand aggregate.
FAQs
What is unsanded grout?
Unsanded grout is a smooth cement-based grout without sand aggregate, designed for narrow tile joints typically 1/8 inch or less in width.
When should unsanded grout be used?
Unsanded grout should be used for narrow joints (1/8 inch or less), natural stone tiles, glass tiles, and any surface that could be scratched by sand.
What’s the difference between sanded and unsanded grout?
Unsanded grout lacks sand particles, making it smooth and non-abrasive, while sanded grout contains sand for strength in wider joints.
Can unsanded grout be used for floor tiles?
Unsanded grout can be used for floor tiles if joints are narrow enough (1/8 inch or less), but sanded grout is more common for floors.
Does unsanded grout need to be sealed?
Yes, unsanded grout typically requires sealing to prevent staining and water penetration, especially in wet areas.
Why does unsanded grout cost more than sanded grout?
Unsanded grout costs more due to specialized formulations and polymer additives that replace the bulk and strength provided by sand.
Can unsanded grout crack?
Unsanded grout can crack if used in joints wider than recommended or if not properly mixed and applied according to manufacturer specifications.
Fun Fact
Fun Fact: Unsanded grout was developed specifically for the growing use of natural stone and glass tiles in the 1980s and 1990s, when traditional sanded grout was found to scratch these delicate surfaces during installation.
CSI Code
09 30 00
NAHB Code
930







