What Goes Between Tiles In a Bathroom

October 21, 2025

If you've looked closely at bathroom tiles, you've probably noticed the spaces between them. These gaps aren't just functional—they also play a role in the overall look of the room.


Filling them with the right material is essential not only for durability and water resistance but also to finish the room aesthetically. Grout serves this purpose, creating clean, uniform lines that enhance the appearance of your tiles while protecting them from damage. Without properly applied grout, tiles can loosen, mold can develop, and moisture-related issues may arise—especially in areas like bathrooms where water exposure is constant.

What Is Grout?

Grout is a cement-based or epoxy-based mixture that seals off spaces between tiles, preventing water from seeping through and causing the tiles to shift. Choosing the right grout is essential for long-term durability.

Cement-based grout is the most common and least expensive. It comes in two varieties: sanded and unsanded. Sanded grout contains fine sand particles, making it ideal for larger gaps to keep the tile from cracking. Unsanded grout works better for smaller gaps and delicate tiles. Cement grout always requires a sealant for maximum effectiveness.

Epoxy grout is a more durable and water-resistant option. It resists stains and doesn't need sealing, making it an excellent choice for high-moisture areas like showers. It is more expensive and difficult to work with than cement-based grout, but the longer lifespan and other benefits can outweigh those factors.


Pre-mixed grout is another option because it comes ready to use. While it eliminates the need for mixing, it is pricier than traditional cement-based grout and is typically used for small projects or repair work. Following the directions is crucial since pre-mixed varieties can work differently from brand to brand.

While grout fills the spaces between tiles, caulk is often used in areas where the tile meets another surface. Unlike grout, caulk is flexible, allowing it to expand and contract as the temperature fluctuates. This flexibility prevents cracking in areas where there is movement. In bathrooms, silicone or acrylic caulk is commonly applied around tubs, sinks, and shower edges to create a waterproof seal. Good quality caulk prevents water from seeping into corners or edges where tiles end. Without it, moisture can get trapped in areas where grout doesn't work, eventually leading to water damage.

Grout Maintenance and Care

Over time, grout can become discolored, cracked, or even moldy due to constant exposure to moisture. Regular maintenance helps keep the grout lines clean and functioning. As we've mentioned, sealing cement-based grout is crucial because it is porous and can absorb water and dirt if not protected.


Applying a grout sealer prevents moisture from penetrating the grout and makes cleaning easier. Regular cleaning with mild cleaners such as Sir Grout's Natural Hard Surface Cleaner and a grout brush helps prevent grime buildup. You should always avoid harsh chemical-based cleaners that can decrease the lifespan of your grout and lead to even more deterioration. If grout starts to crack or deteriorate, applying new grout ensures the tiles stay safe and prevents water seepage.

Grout As a Design Element

The color of grout can impact the overall look of a bathroom. White and gray are the most common choices, but grout colors can create different effects. Lighter grout creates a bright appearance, making the space clean and open. Dark grout contrasts with some tiles and can add emphasis, creating a bold design element. Some homeowners even choose colored grout to match or complement their bathroom décor, adding a unique touch to the space. Textured or metallic grout options are also available, allowing for even more creative design possibilities.


So, while grout may seem like a minor detail, it plays a significant role in the appearance and durability of bathroom tiles. Choosing the right grout type, sealing and maintaining it properly, and using caulk where necessary all contribute to a long-lasting and visually appealing bathroom.

Make Sir Grout Your Choice for Hard Surface Expertise

At Sir Grout, we pride ourselves on our expertise and reputation in the hard surface industry. We specialize in meeting the needs of homeowners and businesses alike. Our customers always appreciate our convenient, cost-effective, professional results. Our proprietary cleaning and sealing methods and products set our company apart from others in the hard surface restoration business.


Our customers are our top priority and our best references. Our exclusive products, professional technicians, and commitment to meeting your hard surface restoration needs make us the best choice when you need grout recoloring and sealing or any other type of hard surface restoration work.

We offer free in-home consultations to help you learn more about our services. Our technicians are extensively trained and can help you find the right solution for your hard surface problems. They will assess your situation, offer the best solution for your grout problems, and explain how the process works.

If you're having problems with your grout and need restoration or sealing services, we invite you to let us show you how we can restore your tile and grout to its original state.

Call us at (866) 476-8863 or click the "Schedule a Free Quote" button for a free in-home consultation. We'll be glad to help.

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