Grout Calculator
Estimate how much grout you need for a tile project. Covers sanded and unsanded grout, common joint widths, and coverage guidance.
Estimate how much grout you need for a tile project. Covers sanded and unsanded grout, common joint widths, and coverage guidance.
Grout volume depends on tile size, joint width, and depth. Wider joints require more grout.
A grout calculator helps estimate the amount of grout needed for a tile installation based on tile size, joint width, joint depth, and grout type. Smaller tile with more joint lines generally requires more grout per square foot than larger tile with tighter spacing.
Sanded grout is commonly used for wider joints because it is better suited to filling larger gaps. It is often used on floor tile and other installations where joint width is at least moderately wide. Scratch-sensitive surfaces may require a different choice.
Unsanded grout is typically used for narrower joints and for tile surfaces that scratch more easily. It is better suited to tight spacing, but it is generally not the best option for joints that exceed the recommended width for the product.
Grout quantity increases when tile gets smaller, joints get wider, or the joint depth increases. Product composition can also affect coverage, so the calculator is best used as an ordering reference rather than an exact yield guarantee for every bag.
Color choice affects the finished appearance of the tile installation. Mixing ratio, cure time, sealing, and cleanup procedures also affect the final result, especially in wet areas or high-traffic locations.
Cement grout is a common general-purpose choice for many tile jobs. Epoxy grout offers higher stain resistance and durability, but installation is usually less forgiving and may be better suited to wet areas or more demanding environments.
| Tile Size | 1/8" Joint | 3/16" Joint | 1/4" Joint | Grout Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6×6" | 0.6 lbs/sq ft | 0.9 lbs/sq ft | 1.2 lbs/sq ft | Sanded or unsanded |
| 12×12" | 0.3 lbs/sq ft | 0.5 lbs/sq ft | 0.7 lbs/sq ft | Sanded (0.125"+) |
| 18×18" | 0.2 lbs/sq ft | 0.3 lbs/sq ft | 0.5 lbs/sq ft | Sanded (0.125"+) |
| 24×24" | 0.15 lbs/sq ft | 0.22 lbs/sq ft | 0.3 lbs/sq ft | Sanded (0.125"+) |
Sanded for 1/8" and wider. Unsanded for smaller. Sanded is stronger and cheaper. Unsanded won't scratch marble. Pick based on your joint width and tile type.
12x12 tiles: 0.3 lbs/sq ft for 1/8" joints, 0.7 lbs/sq ft for 1/4". Smaller tiles need more because there's more grout line. Our calculator does this for you.
Cement grout: 24-48 hours before light traffic. 7 days for full curing. Keep water off it while it dries. Epoxy is faster but harder to work with.
Seal cement grout 3-7 days after curing to block stains and water. Use penetrating sealer (invisible) or membrane sealer (protective coating). Epoxy doesn't need sealing.
Get samples and test them on your actual tiles in your actual lighting. Grout looks different under daylight, artificial light, and at different distances. Test before you commit to a whole project.
