Don’t Forget Your Grout!
Grout is often overlooked, but with handmade tiles it becomes an important part of the finished design.
Because handmade tiles naturally vary slightly in size and shape, we recommend a 3mm grout gap. Some experienced tilers may choose a narrower joint, but this requires more skill to balance the subtle variations between individual tiles.
The colour of your grout can completely change the character of the finished wall. A complementary colour creates a softer, more seamless effect, allowing the colour and texture of the tiles to take centre stage. A contrasting grout, such as dark grey or black, defines each individual tile and creates a stronger, more graphic look.
This image uses Milagros terracotta tiles with black grout.
At Milagros, one of our favourite complementary grouts is ARDEX Natural Almond (Ardex FLEX FL). ARDEX grouts have a slightly grainier texture, which works particularly well with the irregular surface and character of handmade tiles. There are, however, many colours to choose from — and some of our more adventurous customers have even added glitter to their grout.
This image uses Spring Jasmine Grout in Ardex-Flex-FL with Special green 7 X 21cm brick tiles.
If you are considering a dark or contrasting grout with a pale tile, we strongly recommend testing a small area first. Handmade glazed tiles have a natural crackle in the glaze, and darker grout can settle into this crackle, making it more visible. If you would prefer to minimise this effect, the tiles can be sealed before grouting. Alternatively, if you love the character of the crackle, a contrasting grout can be used deliberately to bring it to life.
Special green 7 X 21cm tiles with grey grout.
Ultimately, grout shouldn't simply be thought of as the material that fills the gaps. With handmade tiles, the colour, width and texture of the grout become part of the design itself.
Here is a video for grouting your tiles using and an information sheet.
Stockist can be found there
