How to Choose the Perfect Grout Color for Your Tile

The tile choices for your bathroom, kitchen, or floors can be dizzying. So many materials! So many colors and patterns to choose from!

However, beyond the excitement of tile, there’s one related choice you may have neglected to think about: the grout color.

How do you choose grout for your tile?

It seems simple, but it’s not once you dig in. There are an array of shades and tones, and each one can make your tile look different.

Should the grout blend in? Or should it stand out?

How to Choose Grout for Your Perfect Tile Installation

The grout color can make your tile pop or blend together. It can contribute to a bold statement, or it can help your tile stay neutral.

1. When to Choose Darker Grout

If your tile is a light color, has an interesting shape or pattern, and you want it to stand out, choose a darker shade of grout.

Black or charcoal gray will provide a dark outline and stark contrast. It will also add interest to plain tile arranged in an interesting pattern, like herringbone.

If your tile is dark and you want it to have a subtle look, you should also choose dark grout.

2. When to Choose Mid-Tone Grout

If you love the idea of a pattern for your tile but don’t want it to shout too loudly, mid-tone grout is your best bet. Medium-gray sets off a tile pattern, but in a softer way.

A mid-tone is a good idea if you want a classic look, too. It looks timeless paired with white subway tile in a brick pattern, for instance.

3. When to Choose Light Grout

Choose light-colored grout in the same situations as dark grout, except reversed.

If you have dark tile and want the shape or pattern to pop, use a high-contrasting grout color, like white. If you have light tile and want a neutral, soft look that blends into the background, choose a corresponding light grout.

4. When to Choose Colored Grout

Grout doesn’t just come in neutral tones – it can also be tinted to match any color you want. This perhaps makes your choice more daunting, but there are key times to use this option.

If you want to complement another color in the room, use grout color to do it. You can also make a bold statement by using your grout color as an accent. For instance, white tile with turquoise grout in a bathroom adds a splash of personality.

How to Choose Grout? Consider the Overall Look You Want

Depending on where your tile installation is happening, your grout should complement the look you’re going for.

Want a bold kitchen backsplash? Or would you prefer a totally dark tile floor that blends together and hides dirt? Do you want a relaxing bathroom or a space that pops? Whatever you choose, remember how the grout will change the look of your tile for best results.