By Clay Imports
Saltillo tile brings warmth, texture, and heritage into any space. Whether you are designing a breezy courtyard, a dramatic entryway, or a cozy kitchen, Saltillo tile makes a statement. But here is the thing, grout matters more than you think.
The grout you choose affects the final look, the installation process, and even long-term maintenance. Let’s explore your grout options and answer the most common questions about how to grout Saltillo tile the right way
- What Type of Grout Should I Use?
- What size are grout joints for Saltillo tile?
- What color grout should I choose?
- Where can I buy grout for my Saltillo tile?
- How do I grout Saltillo tile?
Star and Cross tile with white grout at Cosmic Plant Co.
What Type of Grout Should I Use?
Before choosing a grout, ask yourself what style you want your space to reflect.
For a Traditional Look | Think old-world hacienda or rustic ranch. You will want a wider grout joint and a Saltillo-specific, sanded gray grout. This grout style embraces the handmade nature of Saltillo and helps achieve that authentic Mexican look. It is slip-resistant and budget-friendly but requires a bit more upkeep over time.
For a Modern or Clean-Lined Look | If you are going for minimal and sleek, try a smaller grout joint with a versatile modern grout like Ultracolor Plus FA by Mapei. It allows for tighter joints, sometimes as small as one quarter inch, and is stain-resistant with no need for sealing. The installation is more labor-intensive, but the result is polished and low maintenance.
What Size Grout Joints Should I Use for Saltillo Tile?
Grout joint size can completely change the look of your tile.
Large joints (up to three quarters of an inch) create a rustic, traditional vibe
Smaller joints (as tight as one quarter inch) feel more modern and refined
Smaller tiles typically look better with smaller joints, while larger Saltillo tiles suit wider spacing.
San Felipe tile with gray and large grout joints for a traditional look.
What Grout Color Should I Choose?
If you’re using the Saltillo-specific grout, you’ll have one color to choose from - natural gray. If you’re using conventional grout, there are three options for your grout color:
1. Match the Tile | Matching grout keeps the focus on the tile. Pick a brown or terracotta colored grout to blend. This works especially well if you want the tile pattern to feel seamless.
Matching grout and narrow gap for a modern look.
Design by Joel Mozersky Design. Photography by @coloringatx
2. Create Contrast | Want to highlight shapes like hexagons, stars, or crosses? Use a contrasting grout color to make the pattern pop.
A light grout shows the hexagonal shape, highlighting each tile as part of a big picture.
3. Go Neutral | Light grays or off-whites create a soft visual without making grout lines disappear or stand out too much. It is the safest middle ground.
Note: We do not recommend using black grout with Saltillo tile. It can permanently stain the clay and change the tone of your installation.
Where Can I Buy Grout for Saltillo Tile?
While we do not sell grout, we are here to help you make the right choice for your project.
For Saltillo-specific grout, you will want to source it from your local tile supply store or specialty building materials retailer. Just be sure to ask for sanded grout that is suitable for terracotta or clay tiles.
If you are using a more modern installation method, look for grout products like Ultracolor Plus FA by Mapei, which are available from most tile distributors and home improvement stores.
How Many Bags of Grout Do I Need?
This depends on the size of your tile, the spacing between them, and the type of grout you are using. Here is a general rule of thumb:
-
One pound of grout covers about 1.5 square feet of Saltillo tile
- Saltillo-specific grout usually comes in 50-pound bags
- Conventional grout typically comes in 25-pound bags
Measure your space in square feet and divide by 1.5 to get an estimate. Always round up, you do not want to run short mid-project.
Display of various Saltillo tile styles with different grout colors.
How to Grout Saltillo Tile?
We have a full installation guide to help you or your contractor grout Saltillo tile with confidence. But here is the quick overview:
- Ensure proper subfloor prep before installing tile
- Install tiles with the correct spacing for your design goals
- Grout carefully, using the right materials and avoiding overworking the joints
- Clean and seal after grouting to lock in the beauty
Also, do not forget about care. Our Clay Care products are tested and approved for Saltillo tile. Stock up on sealers and cleaners when you place your tile order so you are ready to protect your investment from day one.
This hallway features Star & Cross tile flooring.
Design and Architecture Cult Creative | Mya McCabe Photography
A Few Final Notes
Saltillo tile is a handcrafted product made from natural terracotta. Color variation, texture, and imperfections are part of the charm. We strongly recommend ordering samples to understand the look and feel before making a final decision.
And remember, tile installation is everything. Clay Imports does not provide warranties once the tile is installed. Be sure to inspect all tile on delivery and work closely with your installer to ensure the best results.
Still have questions about grout or tile installation? We are just an email away at contact@clayimports.com Our team is here to help you create beautiful spaces that stand the test of time.
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