Grout

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Contents 1 Material analysis 1.1 Traditional uses 1.2 Emerging uses / trends 1.3 Finish and aesthetic qualities 1.4 Surface forms / shapes 1.5 Cost analysis 2 Material properties 2.1 Primary structural use 2.2 Material performance 2.3 Dimensional and opening restriction 2.4 Manufacturing process and assembly 3 Environment and Life Safety 3.1 Environmental impact 3.2 Flammability rating 3.3 Physical Properties 4 References 4.1 Notes 4.2 Student contributions 5 See also 5.1 Similar materials 6 External links 6.1 Additional resources 6.2 Leading manufacturers

Material analysis

MasterFormat Number: 09 30 00.11

Traditional uses

• Grout is traditionally used to fill the spaces between tiles, binding the tiles into a continuous flooring system. The specification of grout is interdependent with the choice of tile and mortar. All three are selected based on the demands of the application.

Emerging uses / trends

• Use of coloring agents to provide a color hue that enhances the tile design and layout.

Finish and aesthetic qualities

• Grouts made from simple Portland cement mixtures range from off white to gray tones. Additional colors are obtained by adding acrylic latex “admixtures” and coloring agents to the mix. Texture of simple grout mixtures can range from smooth to crumbly or porous depending on expertise of installation, curing conditions and porosity of adjoining tile or material. The use of acrylic latex admixtures also improves not only the texture in terms of smoothness and color consistency, but also enhances strength and other performance qualities.

Surface forms / shapes

• Typically referred to as the width of the grout joint or space between set tiles. Typical joint widths range from 1/8” to 1/2”.

Cost analysis

• Unsanded Portland Portland Cement Mix $ .20 per square foot. Epoxy based grouts are more expensive. *Referenced websites have grout calculators that allow you to determine quantity based on joint width, tile size and square footage.

Material properties

Primary structural use

• Grout is a type of mortar that is used to fill the joints and cavities found between pieces of masonry or ceramics. Often used to fill the joints between ceramic floor tiles and bathroom tiles.

Material performance

• Grout can be highly durable, stain resistance, and mold/mildew resistant.

Dimensional and opening restriction

• Grout joints vary with type of material being grouted and desired aesthetic effect. Can vary from 1/4" to "credit card" sized joints.

Manufacturing process and assembly

• There are two major classifications of grout-Cementitious and Non-Cementitious. Cementitious grouts are primarily made up of Portland cement, sand and water and are mixed on site. The Portland Cement acts as the primary hardening substance. Admixtures and latex additives can be added to these mixtures to supplement performance. Non-Cementitious grouts are comprised of epoxy resins, silica fillers, pigments and hardeners. These agents are generally purchased already mixed and ready to use. These are generally more resistant than Cementitious grouts to stains and chemical abuse, shrinking, freezing/thawing, absorption, cracking and shock.

Environment and Life Safety

Environmental impact

Cementitious grouts are non-toxic, non-combustible, and not explosive and are not considered hazardous. Non-Cementitious epoxy based grouts are considered hazardous and unused components must be legally disposed of. Installers must follow the OSHA standards for personal protection during installation procedures.

Flammability rating

• Noncombustible and not explosive

Physical Properties

• Compressive Strength: 3,500 psi
• Tensile Strength: 1,100 psi
• Water Absorption: < 0.50%

References

Notes

Student contributions

• Susan Shaw, Spring 2008
• Tricia Girard, Fall 2005

See also

Similar materials

• Mortar

External links

Additional resources

• The Tile Council of America
• National Tile Contractors Association
• Ceramic Tile Distributors Association

Leading manufacturers

• Mapei
• Laticrete
• Super-Tek