An Intro to Grout Color Choices
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You’ve picked out your dream handmade tile from Clay Imports. Maybe it’s already waiting patiently in your garage, ready to transform your space. But have you thought about grout?
Grout might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in your tile design. It can shift the entire look and feel of your space, from subtle and seamless to bold and expressive. While it’s always smart to check in with your tile installer, we’ve put together a few easy guidelines to help you choose the right grout color for your project.
- What Color Grout Should I Choose?
- Grout for Saltillo & Terracotta Tiles
- A Note on Dark Grout
- Test It Out
- Think Beyond Color: Grout Type & Joint Size
- Lighting, Texture & Space
- Maintenance & Sealing
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Where Can I Buy Grout?
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Instant Groutification
What Color Grout Should I Choose?
Grout color helps define your overall design. Whether you want your tile to blend or stand out, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It’s all about your style and how you want your space to feel.
Match Your Grout to Your Tile
A matching grout keeps the focus on the tile itself. This approach minimizes visual breaks, creating a smooth, continuous surface that highlights your tile’s color and texture.
If you can’t find a grout color that perfectly matches your tile, try coordinating it with other design elements in your space, such as countertops, walls, or cabinetry.
Design and photo @casey__casey__casey
Use a Contrasting Grout
Want your tile pattern to pop? Choose a grout color that contrasts with your tile. Lighter grout around darker tiles (or vice versa) can emphasize shape and layout, creating a striking graphic look.
Contrasting grout also highlights the handcrafted details of Clay Imports tiles, including the subtle variations in tone and texture that make each piece one of a kind.
Design Stacie Brilliant | Canyon Ranch Tucson
Go Neutral
Neutral grout tones such as warm grays, beiges, or off-whites are a timeless in-between option. They create a soft balance, not too bold and not too blended, that lets your tile shine while maintaining a cohesive look.
Design The Strand Design and Maia Hirschbein | Photo Ocie Bridwell
Try Colored Grout
For those who love to make a statement, consider colorful grout. Shades like cobalt, rust, or mustard can add personality and depth, especially with white or neutral tiles. It’s an unexpected design moment that feels both modern and playful.
Design by Kim Wolfe.
Grout for Saltillo & Terracotta Tiles
For Saltillo or terracotta tiles, we recommend Mapei Natural Gray Saltillo Grout. This tone is designed specifically for these materials and complements their natural variation beautifully. You’ll spot this combo in many of our installation photos because it’s a classic for a reason.
Design The Strand Design and Maia Hirschbein | Photo Ocie Bridwell
A Note on Dark Grout
We typically recommend avoiding black or heavily pigmented dark grout with light-colored tiles, as these can stain porous surfaces like handmade tile or unsealed terracotta. If you prefer a darker look, opt for a deep gray or charcoal instead.
Design Davey McEathron Architecture | Photo Jeremy Doddridge
Test It Out
Before committing, always test. Lay your tile sample next to grout color swatches or print a color chart for reference. Lighting and texture can change how colors appear, so seeing them together will help you feel confident in your choice.
Think Beyond Color: Grout Type & Joint Size
Grout choice isn’t only about color. The type of grout and the width of your grout joints can affect both the look and performance of your installation.
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Narrow joints (1/16") often require unsanded grout, which has a smoother texture and prevents scratching delicate tiles.
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Wider joints (1/8" or more) are best with sanded grout for extra strength and crack resistance.
- Epoxy or urethane grout options are highly stain-resistant and color-stable but may be trickier to apply.
This is why we almost always recommend Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA. It’s an advanced, all-in-one grout that performs beautifully across most tile types, resists stains, and maintains consistent color without the complexity of traditional epoxy products.
When in doubt, check your installer’s recommendation, as they’ll know what works best for your specific tile and setting.
Lighting, Texture & Space
Lighting plays a major role in how grout appears. In bright natural light, colors may look cooler and lighter, while warm interior lighting can deepen tones.
For smaller spaces, matching grout to your tile can create a seamless effect and make the room feel larger. If you want to highlight shape and pattern, a bit of contrast can help define the layout.
Textured or handmade tiles, like many Clay Imports designs, will naturally emphasize grout joints and color variation, and that’s part of their charm.
Maintenance & Sealing
If you’re using cement-based grout, sealing it after installation is key to protecting against moisture and stains. Light grout colors, while beautiful, will show dirt and wear more easily than mid or dark tones, so regular cleaning and resealing will keep them looking fresh.
Epoxy or urethane grouts usually don’t require sealing, but they can cost more upfront.
For everyday maintenance, use pH-neutral cleaners that are safe for sealed grout and handmade tile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even pros agree there are a few easy pitfalls to sidestep:
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Choosing a grout color that’s too light for high-traffic or messy areas
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Using dark grout with light handmade tiles (can stain)
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Skipping the test swatch stage before installation
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Forgetting that grout color can shift slightly as it cures, or depending on water ratios when mixed
A little testing and planning upfront will save you a lot of second-guessing later.
Where Can I Buy Grout?
Grout is easy to find, and you have two great ways to get it.
Shop Online for Convenience: Many trusted retailers and e-commerce platforms sell grout and can ship it straight to your door. It’s the easiest way to explore a wide range of colors and types.
Visit a Local Store for Instant Gratification: Most home improvement and tile stores keep popular grout colors in stock. If you’re ready to get grouting today, visiting a nearby shop is the fastest route.
We don’t sell grout, but we know our stuff. Check out our grout FAQs and learn more about our recommended option here.
Instant Groutification
We hope this grout guide helps you choose confidently. Still have questions? We’re happy to help. Reach out anytime at contact@clayimports.com. You can also explore our installation guides for tile-specific grout recommendations and step-by-step support.
A Friendly Reminder
Every project is unique. Always consult your installer for professional advice on grout selection and application. This guide is meant as a helpful starting point based on our experience and product testing.
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