Narrow or wide, joint width changes how grout performs and how tile looks. Here is how to choose and why it matters.
The space between tiles is not just a gap to fill. Joint width affects strength, cleaning and appearance. Narrow joints, an eighth of an inch or less, give a tight, modern look but leave less room for grout to flex, and they demand very precise tile. Wider joints, a quarter inch or more, hide variation in tile size and feel traditional. They also hold more grout, which means more to clean and more to wear.
Choosing the right grout starts with the width. Sanded grout belongs in joints wider than about an eighth of an inch. Unsanded works in narrow ones. Epoxy and urethane can fill both. Rectified tile is cut straight and allows very narrow joints, but those joints still need to be deep enough for grout to bond. Too narrow and grout cannot grip. Too wide and it cracks. If your joints are crumbling, width and depth may be part of the reason.
Tight, modern.
Traditional look.
Sanded or unsanded.
Grout must grip.
Very tight lines.
Width and depth.
Take the quiz, check a problem or ballpark a budget.
Which Grout Service Do I Need? QuizAnswer five questions about stains, cracks, mildew and goals to see whether you need cleaning, sealing, recoloring or regrouting.Try it 
Grout Calculator: How Much Grout Do I Need?Enter tile size, joint width and depth and your area to see pounds of grout, bags, sealer and caulk to plan for.Try it 
Grout and Tile Budget PlannerPick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.Try it Many floors use an eighth to a quarter inch. Large tile and rustic tile vary.
Yes, with the right tools and grout, though it takes skill.
Unsanded grout shrinks, or movement is not allowed for. The right grout and movement joints help.
Grout and tile guideSanded GroutThe workhorse for floors and wider joints: cement grout with fine sand for strength and shrink resistance.Learn more 
Grout and tile guideUnsanded GroutSmooth cement grout for narrow joints and delicate tile, with a creamy texture and a gentle touch on…Learn more 
Grout and tile guideEpoxy GroutResin-based grout that resists stains, acids and moisture and never needs sealing, with a higher price and a…Learn more 
Grout and tile guideUrethane GroutA flexible, pre-mixed grout that resists stains and cracking, a middle ground between cement and epoxy.Learn more Call us and we will look at every surface, test the grout and tile and give you a clear plan and a written scope for cleaning, repair or restoration.
