How to Choose the Right Grout Color for All Types of Stone Tiles?
What is Grout?
We would like to begin our article with the definition of grout and why grout color is important. Grout is the creamy agent which is forced into the spaces between tiles (generally with a rubber tool) in order to lock the tiles right, keep the water out and give the floors and walls a finished look. It fills the voids and also makes the walls, floors or countertops stronger by bonding the tiles together. Therefore it can prevent the edges of a tile from chipping and cracking.
How to Apply the Grout?
The only thing that you need for this application is a rubber tool and a wet sponge to remove the excess. This rubber tool is called “float” and is available in almost every local store. Apply the grout into the places between the tiles when necessary and wipe away the excess amount with the help of a wet sponge. After the grout is dry, you might want to polish the tiles with a soft cloth to remove any “grout haze” left behind.
Why is Grout Color Important?
The color of the grout is frequently considered as a design element when tiling floors, backsplashes and walls. In order to achieve the perfect design, the color of the grout should match the color of the tiles that you will use. Just like you cannot combine certain colors in fashion, it is the same for decoration. For achieving a sleek and perfect look, selection of grout color is very important.
How to Select the Right Color for Grout?
First of all, think about the color or shade of the tiles that you are going to use for decoration. Are the tiles going to be neutral colored? Or do you prefer bolder colors?
There are three ways for choosing the right grout color: matching the grout color, contrasting the grout color and choosing neutral grout color. Let’s talk about these three ways:
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Matching the Grout Color
If you do not want the grout color to be noticeable and do not want the grout to be on the fore front, you should choose a grout in the same color with the tiles. If you favor a less visible grout line, your choice should be the “matching color” with your tile selection. You might also try one shade lighter or one shade darker for the grout in order to tie everything together.
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Contrasting the Grout Color
If you want to draw attention to each one of the tiles, select a contrasting grout color for the tiles. This contrast look will frame each tile and create a bold look as you desire. With this contrasting color, you will make the tiles to stand out.
Tip: Use a thicker amount of grout in order to achieve the best “contrasting” effect. The thicker the grout it, the more you highlight the tile selection. Especially for backsplash and shower tiles, contrasting colored grout is a very good alternative for more decorative tile patterns.
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Choosing Neutral Grout Color
The neutral color is the safest choice for those who do not like bold looks or the contrast effect. Tans, beiges or grays will give you the neutral look that you wish for. The shades of such colors are not so noticeable among the tiles so if you want something that will have less appeal, you should go for a neutral matching color for grout. This is the option which is highly recommended for those who are going to use tiles for the first time and do have no idea about the effect of grout color.