Are Grout and Mortar the Same?

When it comes to tile installation, grout and mortar are two materials that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Grout and mortar serve different purposes, and it is important to understand the difference between the two in order to select the right material for your tile installation project.

Grout is a material that is used to fill the spaces between tiles, and it is typically made from a mixture of cement, water, and pigments. Grout is applied after the tile has been set in place, and it is used to hold the tiles together and prevent water from seeping into the underlying structure. Grout comes in different types such as cement-based, epoxy and urethane grout.

Mortar, on the other hand, is a material that is used to set tiles. It is typically made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, and it is used to adhere the tiles to the underlying surface. Mortar is applied to the surface before the tiles are set in place, and it is used to provide a secure foundation for the tiles.

In short, grout is used to fill the spaces between the tiles after they have been set in place, while mortar is used to set the tiles in place before the grout is applied. It's important to use the right type of mortar and grout according to the type of tile and the location of the installation.

It's also worth noting that some professionals might use the term "thinset" instead of "mortar" when referring to the adhesive used to set tiles. Thinset is a type of adhesive made from cement, fine sand and water-retention compounds. It is commonly used for setting ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles, and it's also known for its strength and flexibility.

In conclusion, grout and mortar are not the same. Grout is used to fill the spaces between the tiles after they have been set in place, while mortar is used to set the tiles in place before the grout is applied. It's important to use the right type of mortar and grout according to the type of tile and the location of the installation.
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