An Expert Guide on How to Choose the Right Grout Size?

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Getting that perfect tile renovation project going smoothly for you is not always a straightforward process. While it’s nowhere close to rocket science, it’s not exactly a walk in the park either.

If you think about it, the look and visual appeal that you have envisioned for your space is actually an amalgamation of choosing the best quality tiles in best colour and size, selecting the right material and getting the tile installation done by a seasoned tiling professional.

While ticking these off the list should give you your desired style, most people overlook a crucial element pertinent in tiling any space successfully.

Yes, you guessed that right, it’s choosing the right grout and more importantly applying the right grout size to get the style that you can be proud of.

Tile grout is like the dark horse of every interior design and decoration project. While tiles get the maximum limelight and understandably so, grouts are the underrated elements imperative to achieving that perfect look.

So, in this blog, let’s explore how to choose the right tile grout size with opinions from tile experts at Royal Tiles, the largest tile showroom and tile retailer in Sydney.

Peter Yusuf - April 24, 2025

Why Tile Grout is Important in Tile Installation?

Before we delve into understanding the perfect tile grout size for your reno project, let’s lay the context for you by explaining why grouts are such a big thing in tiling and the role tile grouting plays in getting a sustainable tiling result.

Unlike common assumption, tile grout is not something that should be overlooked while installing tiles. Here are the reasons why right tile grouting matters the most during construction and renovation projects:

Tile grout helps to maintain the structural integrity of tiles by filling the space between tiles and preventing tiles from cracking, uneven surface and chipping.
Tile grout helps to prevent water penetration in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, shower and pool from seeping under.
Tile grout is not all about functionality, the right tile grout can elevate the look of any space given that you choose the ideal tile grout colour and size.
Tile grout helps in tile cleaning and maintenance.

Now that you are aware about the importance of tile grout, let’s understand grout sizes.

What is Tile Grout Size?

Tile grout size refers to the width of gap between individual tiles, that is usually measured in millimetres. The right tile grout size helps to elevate the aesthetics, functionality and design of any space.

By Australian standards, the common tile grout ranges between 1.5 mm to 5mm and 3mm is the preferred choice as it is more versatile.

What is the Standard Grout Size in Australia?

Tile grouting is more technical than you think. It might surprise you that tile grout sizes have official Australian Standards as well and the right tile grout size is more than just randomly applying some grout as you desire.

Factors affecting tile grout sizes:

Tile grout sizes can vary depending on a lot of factors integral to achieving functionality, visual appeal, perfect look and sustainability.

Tile grout sizes depend heavily on tile size and type of tile you are using. Small format tiles like mosaic tiles and subway have smaller tile grout compared to large format tiles and natural stone tiles.
Tile surface and tile edges also determine the ideal tile grout size. Rectified tiles with mechanically cut perfect edges require less tile grout size whereas handmade tiles require larger tile grout size.
If you are a fan of contemporary and modern design, you should go for narrow tile grout whereas if you admire rustic and vintage vibes, larger tile grout sizes are the way to go.
Australian Standards and Building Codes are also crucial for using the right tile grout size.
Whether you are grouting the indoors or grouting the outdoor tiles can also determine the ideal tile grout size. The outdoor tiles that are more exposed to the harsh weather, excruciating heat and water can require more tile grout compared to the indoors.

Standard Grout Tile Grout Size for Different Types of Tiles

Tile Category

Recommended Tile Grout Size

Wall Tiles

1mm

Floor Tiles

2-5mm

Rectified Tiles

2-3mm

Non-Rectified Tiles

3-5mm

Outdoor Tiles

3-5mm, even up to 10mm

In Conclusion: Tile Grout Size Tips by Experts

Tile grout sizes are important in every construction project. Hence, as per the tile experts, try different tile grout sample sizes before applying the complete grout.

Also, talk to your tiler for professional guidance and grout maintenance tips. And as the experts would add, don’t match grout size to the tile size alone, also consider the tile finishing and edges.

Hence, with these expert tips, you can pretty much get going with choosing the right tile grout size for your project.

And if you need quality tile grout, expert tips from tile experts and the best quality kitchen tiles, bathroom tiles, floor tiles, outdoor tiles and more, make sure you visit our showroom and buy the most exquisite tiles in Australia from Royal Tiles.

Peter Yusuf

Peter Yusuf is a seasoned Sales and Business Development Manager at Royal Tiles in Sydney, Australia, with a proven track record of success in the global architectural and interior design sectors. With over a decade of experience, he possesses a rich understanding of tile selection and design that has helped countless clients transform their spaces. Peter's expertise spans a wide array of materials and styles, positioning him as a trusted authority in the tile industry.

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An Expert Guide on:
How to Choose the Right Grout Size?