Can I Shower After Grouting?

Time Frame

• New grout typically takes at least 48 hours to cure, according to the Grout Masters website. You will obtain the best results by allowing the new grout in your shower to cure completely before using the shower. If it is not possible to wait the full 48 hours you should at least wait 24 hours.

Sealing

• You may wish to seal your new grout in your shower. Sealing your grout protects this filler against stains and helps prevent water from penetrating through the grout joints. The Grout Getter website recommends allowing your new grout to cure for at least 72 hours before adding a sealer. Grout sealer will cure within 48 hours.

Sanded vs. Non-Sanded Grout

• Grout that is appropriate for use in showers comes in two types: sanded and non-sanded. Non-sanded grout does not contain any aggregate material. You should use non-sanded grout when you need to fill grout joints that are no larger than 1/8 inch. Sanded grout contains aggregate material and is used to fill grout joints that are larger than 1/8 inch. Grout joints that are larger than 1/4 inch wide need special grout that contains larger sand particles.

Grout Considerations

• The North American Tile Cleaning Organization recommends using sanded grout rather than non-sanded grout for all applications that are appropriate for sanded grout. Sanded grout tends to produce a stronger and more attractive finish than non-sanded grout. Grout comes in a variety of colors. You should choose a color that complements your tile, one that neither matches nor stands out from the tile color too much. Dry-mix grout provides superior results over pre-mixed grout, according to the North American Tile Cleaning Organization, but you should use caution to avoid adding too much water to the mixture, which can result in a weak and unsatisfactory finish.