The Five Phases of Interior Design
Talie Jane Interiors
June 29, 2026
Talie Jane Interiors®
Grout is often neglected in the tile selection process, or just treated as an afterthought. But it shouldn’t be! It’s as much a part of the overall finished look as the tile itself. The selection of grout can truly define the character of a space based on the amount of contrast and rhythm that is introduced. The job of grout is to bring out the best in the tile or stone that it surrounds.Grout seems so simple but there are myriad types of grout that are recommended for various applications, design choices for creating patterns and interest and an overwhelming number of colors to choose from. So, how do you select the perfect grout? The team at Talie Jane Interiors offers some great tips. Grout Types Surprisingly, there are many different types of grout. Who knew? However, all usually fall into one of three types: Sanded, un-sanded and epoxy. Sanded Grout• This type of grout includes a small amount of sand, which increases the strength of the grout joints, improving the overall durability of the product.• Best for large tile seams, interior flooring projects, ceramic and stone tiles, and high-traffic areas.• However, it is gritty and may scratch or scuff […]
Grout is often neglected in the tile selection process, or just treated as an afterthought. But it shouldn’t be! It’s as much a part of the overall finished look as the tile itself. The selection of grout can truly define the character of a space based on the amount of contrast and rhythm that is introduced. The job of grout is to bring out the best in the tile or stone that it surrounds.
Grout seems so simple but there are myriad types of grout that are recommended for various applications, design choices for creating patterns and interest and an overwhelming number of colors to choose from. So, how do you select the perfect grout? The team at Talie Jane Interiors offers some great tips.
Surprisingly, there are many different types of grout. Who knew? However, all usually fall into one of three types: Sanded, un-sanded and epoxy.
Sanded Grout
• This type of grout includes a small amount of sand, which increases the strength of the grout joints, improving the overall durability of the product.
• Best for large tile seams, interior flooring projects, ceramic and stone tiles, and high-traffic areas.
• However, it is gritty and may scratch or scuff matte tile, stone or polished tile.
• It’s the most affordable option for DIY projects.
Un-sanded Grout
• This type of grout is stickier and easier to work with than sanded grout.
• It’s perfect for tiling on walls and vertical surfaces.
• Unlike sanded grout, un-sanded grout is smooth and won’t scratch soft, smooth or polished tile and stone.
#5 Use Dark Colors
• An area like the shower will benefit from slightly darker grout to help hide stains and mildew that can creep in and discolor grout.
#6 Keep it Cool
When sourcing cool colored tiles, use a cool grout tone.
#7 Keep it Warm
Similarly, when sourcing warm colored tiles, use a warm grout tone.
Cleaning grout begins with good prevention, including resealing the grout as needed, cleaning up kitchen spills right away, and using a mild homemade or commercial grout cleaner regularly.
Once grout begins to look stained or dingy, refer to the steps above. An important reminder about how to clean grout is to start with the mildest approach because this will be the least likely to damage or discolor the grout. If the grout stain persists, move on to progressively more intense methods. Always ensure adequate ventilation and wear rubber or nylon gloves when cleaning grout.
For design assistance with your baths, kitchens, mud rooms and laundry rooms, or any space that needs tile, contact Talie Jane Interiors at 855-TALIE JANE (855-825-4352).
Article by the Talie Jane Interiors team.
Images
Pinterest
le sol terracotta installation blueprint – clé tile (cletile.com)
the art of the grout joint – clé tile (cletile.com)
