sanded vs unsanded grout

[birch]

I just installed a travertine tile backsplash w/3/16" spacers. I was gonna grout w/ sanded grout, but decided to use some glass accent tiles. Do i have to worry about scratching the glass with sanded or should i just use unsanded.

Also, does the tile need to be sealed prior to grouting?

[HotxxxxxxxOKC]

You only need sanded grout for grout joints 1/4" and bigger so you need non sanded.

The travertine does need to be sealed. The only tile that does not need sealing is porcelin and ceramic.

[Tileman]

You only need sanded grout for grout joints 1/4" and bigger so you need non sanded.

The travertine does need to be sealed. The only tile that does not need sealing is porcelin and ceramic.

Any joint over 1/8" needs sanded grout, it can also be used with an 1/8" joint.

The travertine stone if cut correctly from the manufacturer should have been spaced 1/32 to 1/16" and then unsanded used.

As for the glass tile, test it by rubbing some plain sand on it and see if it scratches, should be fine though.

[HotxxxxxxxOKC]

Good catch! My brain is non functioning this morning!

[GaetanoL]

[QUOTE=Tileman;1261128]Any joint over 1/8" needs sanded grout, it can also be used with an 1/8" joint. QUOTE]

I'm tiling a wall with 1/8" joint (6"X6" tile). Since I can go either way, which is better? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Thanks

[HeresJohnny]

G

With porcelain you can use either on 1/8" joints. The non sanded will have a smother look to it and the sanded will have a little textured look. Any bigger than 1/8" joints with the non sanded and it tends to shrink and crack. The sanded wont shrink. My preference for 1/8" is sanded but either will work.