Grout is the kind of essential element that one rarely notices and yet, the moment it has a flaw, we notice the difference immediately. It is the barely visible element that holds your tiles together. It is used both as a filler and as for reinforcement. A good grouting job ensures that tiles are laid out properly and that the end result is neat. This is why we have to be careful when picking grout manufacturers India.
Grout is a mixture of cement, sand and water. It can also contain fine gravel, especially when used as a filler for large spaces. Grout may also be used as a design element. In which case, it is mixed with a coloring agent. The tint when used in grout, gives the layout a definite edge with each tile lined with colored grout.
Functions of grout:
Grout has more uses than immediately obvious. It is used as an adhesive agent, to fill voids, and to seal joints. Grout acts as both a filler and as reinforcement. Some of the uses of grout are:
Secure tiles or mosaics
Tiling grout is used to secure tiles or mosaic to the base. When we lay down tile flooring,we generally use plastic or rubber spacers. The spacer is used to position the tiles and ensure an even layout. The tiles are then placed on an adhesive backing which holds them to the sub floor. Once the tiles are in place, we use the grout.
It is poured into the space in between the tiles. The grout is used so that it sinks into all the gaps between the tiles and the sub-floor. Without the grout, we’ll be left with these little empty spaces. With time and motion above, the tiles will start moving from their place. The empty space will ensure that there is no hindrance and the tiles will come loose. When we use the grout, we seal the tile in its place. By sealing the tiles we also stop the tile from damage.
Keeping moisture from seeping in
Flooring grout, especially when used in kitchens and bathrooms, is sealed for water proofing. Without the grout, the water will simply seep in between the tiles and easily trickle down to the sub-floor or it will stay in between the tiles. This can be a health hazard and ensure that the flooring starts to give away from inside.
Grout is not by itself water-proof. However, it is sealed to make it water-proof and this ensures that water does not seep through. There are two type of sealers used to water proof grout — spray-on or applicator. The sealant penetrates into the grout, sealing it from within. It is best to ask the grout manufacturers India for the proper sealant.
Preventing damage to tiles
Like every other natural element, tiles also expand and contract with changing weather conditions. If we place tiles too close to each other, this movement will cause damage. So, we need to keep distance between tiles. But as explained above, this empty space will just become a dust trap, health hazard and a potential accident zone (one can trip over the gaps between tiles). Grout offers the most feasible solution because of its yielding quality. It allows the tiles to expand or contract without disintegrating. This prevents damage to the tiles, while allowing their natural movement.
For securing reinforcement
Grout is not used only in floors. Masonry grout is used in walls for embedding steels and rebars. The metals are put in place and then grout is used to seal it into the masonry. The grout helps the masonry to bear the weight of the metal rods and plates. It also keeps them in place by sealing them in. Since these are critical reinforcing elements, grout helps in reinforcement of a building structure.
For aesthetics
Grout is also used as a design element. Grout manufacturers India offer many colors in their product. You can choose a neutral shade or match it with your tiles if you want a harmonious look. You can also go for colored grouts to give your tiles a dramatic look. For instance, dark-colored grout around pastel tiles bring out the tiles and make for a dramatic layout.
