Caulk vs. Grout: What’s the Difference?

When you are working on a home remodel, there are many supplies and pieces of equipment you must become familiar using such as grout and caulk. There are several similarities between each substance but they are used for very different purposes. Here are a few things you should know about grout and caulk and when to use each during your renovation project.

Grout

Grout is a very porous material that is made of sand, cement, water, and other small pieces of dirt and gravel. When you use grout, you place it in the space between your tiles. However, it should only be used on very flat surfaces because it will crack. It won’t stick to the tiles, helping you create a very clean and pristine look to your shower or your bathroom counter. Although, over time, grout repair may be necessary and if your tiles crack or chip, it is important maintenance work is completed right away.

Caulk

Caulk is also used between tiles but is ideal for areas where some flexibility is needed. It is a latex-based substance, making it extremely adaptable and it will stick to various materials, making it an excellent option when connecting two different type of materials. However, caulk is not as durable as grout and can easily crack and shrink, requiring additional maintenance and regular inspections.

When to Use Each Option

Knowing the difference between using caulk and grout is vital. Grout is best for tile floors, kitchen backsplashes, etc. It is ideal to use caulk when the tiles meet the wall and even around corners or where you need a little more flexibility such as bathroom showers.

However, to avoid any confusion when repairing the grout or tiles in your Denver home, you should call in the professionals. When these projects are done correctly, you will experience stronger, more durable tiles, plus a cleaner and more flawless job. Contact The Grout Specialist today at (720) 517-8041 to schedule your appointment today.