When Should I Use Sanded Grout as Opposed to Non-Sanded?

I am putting 12" sq Tiles on a counter top and to fill the entire space and make it all evenly spaced the gap will end up at 1/2" between each tile. Does it really matter if I use Sanded grout or should I go with the non-sanded variety? ( I purchased sanded unknowingly )

rob s2010-03-06T06:32:35Z

Favorite Answer

1/2" is the biggest joint you can use and you MUST use a sanded grout. Unsanded will shrink, crack and not hold up in a joint that size. Also the body hardness of most all 12" tiles require a sanded grout. This has to deal with water absorption .
Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar and check my qualifications there. Any one saying an unsanded grout has no idea what their talking about.. GL

rick2010-03-06T07:56:15Z

You have the proper grout with the sanded. I do however suggest going with a smaller grout joint. The bigger the grout joint, the more it takes away from the tile. My guess is with 12x12 tiles, y ou are trying to avoid a small cut row. If that is the case, consider going 13x13.

Anonymous2010-03-06T04:41:13Z

I use sanded grout for floor tiles, non-sanded for counter tops and bathrooms.

headhunter2010-03-06T06:03:02Z

1/2 inch is a big gap for unsanded grout, I would use an epoxy grout like Spectra Lock, it as good as u can use being epoxy makes it pretty much bullet proof...

normie_dee2010-03-06T05:39:54Z

Non-sanded will give a smoother finish but be sure to seal it