Choosing caulk or grout for tile floors can be a tough decision for homeowners. Both materials have their own benefits, but depending on the project, one may work better than the other. Here’s what you need to know about choosing caulk or grout for your Milwaukee home.
What is Caulk?
Caulk is made from either silicone, latex or polyurethane. It’s used to seal gaps between tiles and prevent water absorption. Some brands, such as Lifetime, reinforce sealants with anti-microbial properties for easy cleaning.
What is Grout?
Grout is a paste made up of water and sediments, such as cement and sand, that fills the gaps in between tiles. Like caulk, grout acts as a sealant for space in between tiles. Grout is a tough material that helps hold tile together and is easy to clean. Hardware stores sell an assortment of brands that come pre-mixed and unmixed.
What are the Benefits and Downsides of Caulk?
Caulk is a great material for working with tile. It’s super durable making the room for error is smaller. The sealant factor makes it resistant to water and pests, meaning you can reduce the occurrence of mold and inhabiting pests. According to a post from The Tile Doctor, caulk is especially helpful for sealing tiles surrounding bathtubs.
A post from Sanford and Hawley, Inc. urges consumers to choose wisely when it comes to caulk. While it is highly durable and resistant to water, not all products are one and the same. For example, latex based caulk may not work well in areas exposed to high temperatures. Homeowners should keep in mind the type of room and the conditions when buying products.
While caulk is a great sealant, it works best for sealing tile on a short term basis. Grouting between tiles provides long-lasting strength.
What are the Benefits and Downsides of Grout?
The sedimentary material in grout mixes gives it a lot of strength. Grout does a fantastic job holding tiles together in the long run. If you haven’t had any luck with caulking tiles, grout could be the best solution in the long run. Homeowners should be aware of grouts limitations before they hit the store.
Grout products come both sealed and unsealed. Unsealed grout is porous and can absorb water, leading to mold buildup. Poorly sealed grout also invites pests to inhabit in between tiles. Homeowners should pick up some sealant when they’re purchasing grout.
Caulk or Grout: Which One Do I Pick for My Tile Floors?
Caulk and grout carry their own benefits and drawbacks. Homeowners who are new to tile work should consult a professional before they attempt to install tiles. If you want to leave it to a professional, call on My Affordable Flooring, providing for homeowners from Milwaukee down to Chicago.
