Tile grout consumption per 1 m²: calculation formula, calculator and norms

The density coefficients of some solutions:

CERESIT CE 33 Super - 1.75
KERAKOLL Fugalite Eco - 1.55
KESTO Kiilto - 1.6
LITOKOL Litochrom - 1.9
LITOKOL Litochrom Luxury - 1.9
LITOKOL Starlike - 1.55
MAPEI Ultracolor Plus - 1.6
MAPEI Kerapoxy Design - 1.6

Grout - This is a special mortar, most often cement, which is designed for grouting joints between tiles, which has moisture and decorative properties.

Tile grout calculator KALK.PRO allows you to calculate the required grout consumption per 1 m2 or total, according to the specified parameters.

In order not to constantly calculate all the necessary components manually, it is easier to use our simple and convenient calculation of grouting the brand Litokol, Cerezit, Mapey and Kesto.

To calculate, you need to find out:

• length, width and thickness of the tile, mm,
• room area, m2,
• estimated joint width, mm
• solution density, kg / dm2.

As a result of the work of our grout calculator, you will get grout consumption for the entire surface of the room and grout consumption per 1 m2 in kilograms.

Manual expense calculation

Consumption (kg / m²) = (a + b) / (a ​​* b) * c * d * e,

• a - tile length (mm),
• b - tile width (mm),
• c - tile thickness (mm),
• d is the width of the seam (mm),
• e - grout density (kg / dm³), usually a figure from 1.5 to 1.8.

For example, we have ceramic tiles 33x33 cm 10 mm thick, and the joints between the tiles will be 2 mm. Substitute the numbers in the formula and calculate:

Consumption = (330 + 330) / (330 * 330) * 10 * 2 * 1.6 = 0.194 kg / m². That is, 2.5 kg packaging is enough for grouting the cladding with an area of ​​12.9 m². This will not be enough even for a small bathroom.

Manufacturers Standards

On each package, the manufacturer indicates the approximate consumption of the mixture. This is not always convenient, because not all tile sizes are indicated in the table. Below are descriptions of popular manufacturers.

Ceresit CE 33 Super

1. Cement and epoxy grout Mapei: description, specifications, calculation and application
2. Tile glue UNIS: selection, specifications, flow, instructions
3. Calculation of tiles for the bathroom without special programs: online calculator and instructions

Ceresit grout prices for tiles

As a result, the calculator will display the value expressed in kilograms (with a 10% margin). According to this result, you can purchase material - packaged or even by weight.

How difficult is the installation of ceramic tiles?

The operation can not be called simple - it requires increased accuracy and care, however, such a cladding belongs to the category available for independent execution. With the nuances of technology laying ceramic tiles on the floor can be found in the corresponding article of our portal.

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Considered parameters

When determining the consumption of material for joints, the following parameters should be considered:

• tile size - the smaller its length and width, the more seams are formed in 1 square meter. The thickness is affected in the same way. A thicker tile increases the cost of the grout,
• joint width - due to the parameters of the tile elements. Small details look prettier with narrow joints, and large ones with wider ones, for walls 2 mm is usually permissible, and for the floor they take an average of 3 mm,
• the seam depth is the distance from the base of the surface to the tile, created by the thickness of the adhesive layer. The trowel should completely fill all possible voids,
• grout density - depending on the components used, the mass and density of the material changes,
• masonry quality - even with perfect work, the seams may be uneven or you need to hide minor chips and mashing in this case the only way out.

Average grout per square meter

Grout mixes are sold in two forms:

• finished thick composition in plastic buckets. Without preliminary preparation, they can be immediately used for work and grouting tiles per 1 m2. But this is not always practical, because after opening the containers dry quickly,
• dry powder, which is diluted with water or latex to the desired consistency. It is convenient for small volumes of cladding, it is also one of the materials that can be stored until the next stage of work or for subsequent repair.

Manufacturers of building materials indicate on the packaging how much approximately material is needed per 1m 2. In reality, practical indicators significantly depend on the width, thickness of the seam, the dimensions of the tile itself, on the human factor: the skill level of the tiler and the method of applying grout to the surface. The finished table indicates how much dry mix is ​​needed for frequently encountered parameters of tiles and the corresponding joints between the tiles.

If the sizes are far from the standard, then an independent calculation can be done using the formula calculator: L x K = g / m2, where L = (A + B) / A x B = m / m2, K = C x D x F.

The values ​​of this formula are:

L - seam length, m / m2,

K is the grout consumption coefficient in grams,

A - tile length in meters,

C is the seam width in mm,

D is its depth, mm,

F is a volumetric grout weight of approximately 1.6 that varies with specific conditions.

The final value of the consumption of dry mix in grams per 1 m2 is determined by multiplying the seam length by the grout consumption coefficient in grams.

Consider the calculations by example. Take a mosaic tile measuring 20 x 20 mm with a thickness of 4 mm. Then the optimal joint width reaches 2 mm. The sum of the length and width is divided by the product of length and width: 20 + 20/20 x 20 = 0.1. Then we multiply this number by the thickness of the tile, by the width of the seam and by a factor of 1.6. Using the calculator, we get: 0.1 x 4 x 2 x 1.6 = 1.28, round up to 1.3. The same corresponds to the table value of 1.3 kg

One hundred percent accuracy of how much grouting is needed, these calculations cannot give, since they do not take into account all factors. Therefore, it is recommended to make 5-10 percent of the stock of grout joints to compensate for uneven consumption of material.

Basic grouting requirements

When determining the grout consumption for a tile per 1 m2, it is important to remember the basic requirements that a grout material per 1 m2 must meet. Also, do not forget that each tile material requires the choice of a specific grout.

Elasticity - during operation, the mixture should not spread, be too thick, that is, stick. Some modern compounds retain their elastic properties even after hardening, preventing cracking of the suture layer when the tile masonry is displaced.

Strength - it is not permissible for the dried grout to crumble or crumble. This is mainly affected by the quality of the material chosen and the observance of the correct proportional ratio of the components.

Water resistance - the ability to protect joints from moisture penetration, the accumulation of contaminants and the formation of mold and fungal plaque. Aesthetics - it is necessary to select the type and color optimal for this design decision.

Lithokol

Cement mixes Litokol for a tile - a popular type of grouting compositions. They can be used for interior and exterior cladding - they do not lose color, abrasion and the influence of aggressive detergents, are characterized by their special durability and long service life. The company Litokol presents compositions for filling both narrow joints of the mosaic and wide, for floor and wall masonry. To begin work, a cement-based grout can be easily dissolved with water or latex, following the instructions for use.

Epoxy grout Litokol, unlike cement, perfectly matches any aesthetic tasks when facing with marble, smalt, for mosaics. Its color palette is very diverse - it is a large number of shades, there are options with original decorative effects - “metallic”, “bronze”, “silver”, “mother of pearl”. Color remains unchanged for the entire life of the tile. You can choose a transparent type of grout, which will help when creating panels of glass mosaics and structures with built-in lighting. The two-component epoxy grout “Litokol” forms a very strong and dense seam that can undergo severe loads. The suture joint does not absorb dirt, rust, does not crack, retains all its original characteristics over time. Epoxy grouts resist fungus formation, mechanical damage, sunlight, and aggressive chemicals. They are moisture resistant, tolerate frost without problems, high temperatures in saunas.

Epoxy grout for tiles from “Litokol” is characterized by enhanced viscosity, which requires a certain level of professionalism and accuracy in work. Upon completion of the reaction of the mixed components of the epoxy mixture, it acquires a chemical inertness and becomes completely harmless to the environment and humans. Its fundamental difference from cement-containing compounds is a particular demand for observing the proportions of the ingredients when preparing the working mixture.

Polyurethane products are an innovative grouting material from the manufacturer “Litokol” based on an aqueous dispersion of polyurethane resins. This composition provides a tight and superelastic seam, which is necessary in the manufacture of tiled floors with underfloor heating and substrates subject to increased vibration or deformation. Polyurethane mixtures Litokol are very convenient in use. They are fully prepared for use, unlike epoxy grout, do not require preliminary mixing of the ingredients.

One of the types of grouting Litokol is Epoxystuk X-90 epoxy grout, the consumption of which can be found in the table.

Ceresit

The elastic water-repellent grout Ceresit CE-40 is designed for grouting joints of tiles up to 10 mm wide inside and outside buildings, as well as for all types of tile. Due to the high elastic properties, CE-40 is more often used in facing work on moving deformable substrates, including for heated floors, for joints of OSB boards, gypsum plasterboards. Humidity does not penetrate into the grout Ceresit CE-40, but roll down its surface. It has an antifungal effect. Available in 32 shades, including white. CE-40 has color fastness, does not fade. It is steady against pollution, is well washed, has high resistance to attrition, frost-resistant. The surface of the seam turns out perfectly smooth and beautiful. CE-40 grout is environmentally friendly for humans and the environment. The choice of grout flow rate ceresite is also carried out according to the formula.

In order not to make a mistake when determining the consumption of grout Ceresit CE-33, it is worth using the table.

Ceresit CE-33 is a grout of different colors with antifungal properties for the finishing of joints between tiles up to 5 mm wide. This is primarily mosaics and small tiled elements (friezes, borders).

CE-33 is produced in dry powder form and is shut with water. The instructions for preparing the CE-33 mixture should be carefully observed, since excess water or the formation of lumps can degrade the grouting properties. The solution can be used for an hour. 29 CE-33 tinters allow you to create an excellent smooth base for small fragments. At the same time, CE-33 Ceresite is not inferior in water resistance, is not afraid of fungi and mold, can withstand up to 50 frost resistance cycles, is suitable for exterior and interior use, and is not toxic.

Can grout be saved?

This is a logical question, since the price of the material for the joints is not low. You can really save, if you provide a high-quality seam. For this, even at the stage of tile installation, two rules must be observed. The first is to create a perfectly even base for the tiles, which eliminates bumps in the depth of the seam and the void. The second is to use high-quality glue, which can be applied in a very thin layer, which will reduce the seam depth to a minimum. To avoid overspending during mashing, the material must be diluted in small portions. Then the work will be carried out with a fresh solution that fills the seam well. In addition, the fresh mixture is easier to collect from the surface of the tile. For applying epoxy grout, it is better to use a special dispenser or syringe. The formation of the seam must be carried out, even with a fresh solution. This will allow the use of surplus that is squeezed out of the seam during formation for subsequent grouting. But, in no case should you try to save grout by adding water. A too liquid mixture will complicate the work, and after drying, cracks will appear, and the seam will dry out.

Grout consumption for tile joints

The ideal seam width for tiles measuring 15x15 cm is 1.5-2 mm, for floor tiles measuring 33x33 cm 2-3 mm. The solution must be selected to match the color of the tiles. Our catalog contains more than 3000 color shades of grout.

Grouting can be epoxy and cement, cement grouting is used for ordinary tiles and normal operating conditions. The width of the seam is allowed within 6 mm. For wide joints from 4 mm to 16 mm, special grouts are used, which can ensure deformation and movement of tiles without destroying the seam. Such grouts are used for special types of floors and pools.

Grout consumption can be calculated depending on the size of the tile and the area. For a standard tile measuring 30x30 cm and a seam width of 2 mm, 300 grams of grout per 1 m2 of laying area will be required. The solution must be prepared strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions, in this case the mass will turn out to be plastic and will be able to qualitatively fill the joints between concrete, marble, stone and ceramic tiles. For mosaic tiles measuring 5x5 cm and a seam width of 2 mm, about 1 kg of dry grout will be required, such a large consumption is associated with a small mosaic size and a large number of seams. Tiles measuring 10x10cm, 10x20cm and 15x15cm with a joint width of 2mm and 3 mm respectively will require 400 grams of dry grout.

In order for the solution to obtain the required consistency, it is necessary to use clean cool water or special latex, the temperature should be from +5 to + 35 ° C, and mix with a construction mixer at low speeds, then the mass will turn out to be homogeneous, without lumps. After the kneading process, it is necessary to maintain a 5 minute pause and mix again, only after this you can use grout. If the proportions are not respected, this will lead to a deterioration in the chemical and physical properties of the material and an increase in consumption. It is necessary to work with grouts with special tools, for example a rubber spatula.

Grouts are used both indoors and outdoors, regardless of the level of humidity and other operating conditions. After hardening of the grout, the joints become resistant to temperature extremes and high humidity.

We ourselves compiled a table reflecting a more or less accurate grout consumption for tile, mosaic and stone joints. And they came to the conclusion that each individual case requires on-site verification. This is knitted with such different and extensive parameters that it is not possible to clasp in one table.The thickness of the tile, the adhesive layer on which the tile was laid, the amount of adhesive remaining in the joints, the non-standard application of crosses to large and small tiles, the density and weight of each grout, the human negligence factor in the preparation, storage and use of the solution. In the end, we recommend taking a little more grout than you need. Tile size 30x30 with a seam of 2mm 1kg grout overwrites a little more than 3m.kv. Glass mosaic requires 1 square meter a little more than 1 kg of grout. Stone or marble mosaic 2kg per 1 sq.m. There is a formula for calculating grout, but it is not 100% accurate. The best way to understand is to buy 1 kg of grout and see how many square meters it can be rubbed.

Methods for calculating the required amount of grout

Grout consumption table.

The amount of mixture for tile joints with a size of 300x300 mm can be calculated in 3 ways:

• The method of calculating the flow rate using the mathematical formula: (A + B) / (A * B) * C * D * K = Kg / M2,
• using an online calculator,
• practical method.

Correctly calculated consumption of fugue for joints can reduce the repair estimate, and use the released funds for other purposes.

The mathematical method of calculating

To calculate the required flow rate of the mixture for combining according to the formula (A + B) / (A * B) * C * D * K = Kg / M2, you should have the following data:

• tile length, mm - A, 300 mm,
• tile width, mm - B, 300 mm,
• the width of the inter-tile seam, mm - C, 2 mm,
• tile thickness, mm - D, equals 4 mm,
• the coefficient of volumetric weight of the finished solution is taken 1.6.

(300 + 300) / (300 * 300) * 2 * 4 * 1.6 = 0.085 kg / m²

The result obtained is increased by 10-15% in reserve, for unforeseen losses:

0,085 * 15/100 = 0,012 kg / m²

For 1 m² of laid tile, 100 g of grout must be consumed.

The formula for calculating the amount of grout.

The mixture is prepared strictly following the manufacturer's instructions, which are printed on the packaging. Neglecting the instructions for preparing the solution and non-observance of proportions leads to a deterioration in its physico-chemical characteristics, which entails an increase in the consumption of material. Mixtures are available for indoor and outdoor use, therefore, when purchasing them, you should carefully read the information on the package.

The total consumption is calculated by multiplying the area of ​​the wall, tiled, by the estimated consumption of grout, consumed by 1 m².

Online Construction Calculator

Many sites provide the opportunity to calculate the required material consumption by visitors themselves using the online calculator located on the page.

For the calculation, it is necessary to enter data in the appropriate windows: the width, length and thickness of the tile, the distance between the tiles and the area of ​​the wall on which the tile is laid. The count button is pressed. The result appears in the window. If you do not specify data in the “Erased Area” box, then the online calculator will calculate the consumption of the mixture per 1 m² of laid tile.

Practical method

Many builders determine the required amount of substance for the jointing in a practical way. Buy 1 kg of grout, and then calculate the wall area for which this material was enough. The result obtained is distributed on the entire surface of the wall lined with tiles.

To correctly make a joint, you should adhere to some rules:

The jointing of tiles is done with a rubber spatula.

1. The consumption of the mixture is directly related to the density of materials used for grouting. The density of the finished fugue is indicated on the packaging of the material and depends on the manufacturing technology, the manufacturer's company, and the composition of the components.
2. The size of the tile affects the consumption of the fugue solution: the finer the tile, the more it is necessary to spend the mixture on the planing.
3. The wider the distance between the tiles, and it can be 2-30 mm, the more the grout is consumed.
4. Another factor affecting the increase in fugue consumption during jointing is their depth. Depth depends on the thickness of the tile and the filling of the joints with glue.

In the construction literature print out tables of consumption of grouting material, summarizing the average data for different tile sizes. These data can be used for preliminary calculations.

The role of the type of grout in the consumption per 1 m² of tile

Technologies for the production of building materials have provided us with a variety of mixtures used for laying ceramics, the physical properties and features of work with which largely determine the rate of grout consumption per 1 m² of tile. Laying masters, when working at home, most often use mixtures that have proven themselves to be convenient in work, high-quality and durable, and choose them from the following types of grouts available on mass sale:

• Cement fugue, which is a dry powder from Portland cement with additives. The color palette allows you to choose a harmonious or contrasting tone for any tile.
• Latex mastic contains polymer particles that seal the joint from moisture in its structure.
• Epoxy grout, the basis of which is resin, which completely blocks the penetration of moisture into the joints of the tiles after solidification.

A qualified master will not advise you to purchase a grout, focusing on the consumption indicated by the manufacturer on the package, realizing that the quality of the material takes precedence over its economy.

The requirements for the mastic are determined not so much by the consumption of grout for joints per 1 m², but by the quality parameters, the level of which the manufacturers of this type of building materials pay the most attention to:

• Plasticity - the working mixture should not spread and crumble during application, filling the seams without leaving air cavities. There are special types of grout that retain plasticity after hardening, and guarantee the absence of cracking of the seam when the tiles are displaced. Preservation of ductility is important for joints of large thickness (more than 6 mm) with a significant consumption of grout per 1 m².
• Strength and integrity of the hardened material - high-quality grout should not crumble during operation.
• Decorativeness - a color palette that allows you to choose the right shade and match its declared tone after the composition hardens.
• Hydrophobicity - prevents the penetration of moisture into the porous structure of the material, preventing the development of mold.

Photo from the site http://www.o-vannoy.ru

Mixtures for grouting are of the following types:

Latex grout is made from polymers. It does not allow the seams to deform and prevents the penetration of moisture or dirt into them. Cement based grout mix is ​​sold in powder or liquid form. Ready-made compounds are sold in plastic buckets. Seams should be treated with such a grout once, since it hardens under the influence of air and is not suitable for reuse. Dry formulations are convenient in that a certain amount of material necessary for a particular stage of work can be diluted with water. The rest of the dry mixture is used in subsequent work.

Cement fugues of various brands are produced. The most common are Ceresit and Litokol brands. Ceresit grout repels water and is resistant to frost. It can be a tinted (multi-colored) mixture.

The grout consumption per 1 m² based on cement is detailed on each packaging. Unlike epoxy, cement grout has a lower density. This parameter should be taken into account during operation, since it is consumed by 1 m² much more. A feature of cement grouts is the ability to reproduce (repair). After a period of time, dirt seeps into the seams between the plates under physical influence. You can update the grout joints by removing the previous one and applying a new layer. The disadvantage of cement mixtures is their poor resistance to household chemicals. In recent years, increasingly resorting to the use of epoxy mixtures.

Litokol Fugue can be made on the basis of epoxy. She has established herself as a grouting material for joints. Unlike cement grouting compounds, it is viscous and is used for thick tiles if laying was carried out with a space between the tiles exceeding 5 mm. Epoxy-based grout is not afraid of large temperature differences and is very resistant to chemical influences, not afraid of mold and fungus. The quality characteristics of epoxy based grouts do not change over an extended period of time.

The fugue should be elastic while working with it. The main factor related to the disadvantages of this fugue is its price. She is quite tall. It is difficult to work with grout due to its viscosity. After processing the seams, excess that has fallen on the tile is difficult to remove. Therefore, you should carefully wipe the tiles at each stage of work.

A distinctive feature of epoxy grout mixtures is their composition. They are based on hardener and colored paste. When mixed, a trowel material is formed which is very durable and resistant to physical and chemical influences. And also epoxy fugues act as an adhesive. Those who like to lay the walls of bathtubs or pools with mosaics, the masters suggest fixing it with just such a grout.

What parameters to pay attention to

Grouting is done after facing the tiles. Such a measure is needed to protect the tiles from destruction and with a decorative purpose. You can calculate the waste of an individual material yourself, knowing the main parameters on which the grout consumption depends.

What is taken into account when calculating the required amount of grouting material:

• Tile parameters - the smaller it is, the more joints per meter. It affects the thickness. Thick cladding requires more material.
• Depth - the distance from the edge of the tile to the base. The mixture will fill it completely.
• Width - depends on the parameters of the tile, usually it goes 2-3 mm.
• The density of the composition - grout has different parameters, depending on the components.
• Quality of work - in some places more material may be required to hide some defects.

When calculating the grout, you should consider the type of product, its components. Each type of work requires a separate material, and consumption will largely depend on this. In order for the calculations to be as correct as possible, the grout must meet all quality requirements, including parameters of elasticity, strength, resistance to external factors.

Key grouting requirements that determine its quality and consumption:

• Plasticity - a good grout will not drain down the tile, it fills the seams without the formation of bubbles. There are compositions that retain plasticity after drying, and this guarantees the preservation of the seam with a slight displacement of the tile. This parameter is significant for joints from 6 mm with a large consumption of grouting material.
• Integrity - the seam after solidification should be strong, whole. It does not crumble or crack. In another case, much more grout will be required for continuous correction of work.
• Decorative - a wide color palette is offered by many manufacturers, while the color of the frozen mass should correspond to the original.
• Resistance to moisture - if water gets into the seam, the material will collapse, you will have to change the grout, spending more and more material.

Length, width and thickness

Decorative tiles have a variety of sizes. Its parameters directly affect the required flow of funds. In order to correctly determine the grout consumption for tile joints per 1 m2, it is necessary to take into account its length, thickness, density and width. The smaller the tiles, the more material is required. If it is thick, you will need even more grout. Thin and wide tiles require less grouting.

In terms of size, the cladding is of the following types:

• Large - 50-120 cm.
• Small - its size is 5x5 cm.
• Classical - 10-50 cm.

Lining is usually performed with rectangular tiles with parameters 20x25, 20x30 cm. Tiles with sizes 12x25, 15x20 and 15x15 cm are often used. The size is usually selected as a multiple of its application surface to reduce the amount of waste and reduce the complexity of the work process.

Seam width

The grout consumption for a tile is affected by the width of the joint itself, i.e. the selected distance from one tile to another. Usually this indicator is equal to several millimeters - 3-5. For the floor - 3-5 mm, for the walls - 2-3 mm.

On a large area, tiles with intentionally wide seams - 3-5 mm, look better. As practice shows, the width will depend on the quality of the lining, dimensions and appearance. Budget products made of cheap materials are not always marked with exact parameters. Deviations can reach several mm. Then you can make a calculation of the width by laying out several tiles on a flat floor. The stronger the broken line, the larger the seam will be required.

The width will also be affected by the characteristics of the primer, the age of the structure, and seismic conditions. New buildings tend to shrink, so it is rational to increase the gaps in the lining. With adverse environmental factors, the seams are specially expanded so that they can take on the load, preserving the integrity of the tile, preventing its cracking.

Grout Requirements

Why do you need grouting? After you have laid the tiles, there is an empty space between the tiles. The calculation of the width of the joints is made at the stage of designing the coating and depends on the size of the tile. In order to mask the joints, give the surface an aesthetic appearance and greater strength, as well as protect the solution from water penetration, use special mastic. Based on these functional tasks, grouting requirements can be derived:

• Elasticity - applying such a mass is very easy, it does not spread, does not bind and does not crumble. Some materials, even after hardening, retain this property and prevent cracking of the joints when the coating is displaced.
• Strength after solidification - depends on the quality of the materials used and the proportions of the ratio of components. After drying, the grout should not crumble and crumble.
• Decorativeness is the quality of visual perception. It is necessary to choose the optimal color, as well as the type of composition.
• Water repellent properties - protects joints from moisture penetration. Additionally, it prevents the accumulation of contaminants in the joints and reduces the likelihood of fungus development.

To ensure that these requirements are met as accurately as possible, it is important not only to choose the right material, but also to correctly calculate the amount of mastic required

One of the main requirements for grouting is elasticity.

Tile grout consumption: types of mixes

Before preparing the grout, it is important to make an accurate calculation. To do this, take into account the number of tiles, its size, depth and width of the seam

High-quality grout provides reliable protection of walls and glue from pollution, moisture, steam and pathogenic fungi and mold.

For example, we have ceramic tiles 33x33 cm 10 mm thick, and the joints between the tiles will be 2 mm. Substitute the numbers in the formula and calculate: Consumption = (330 + 330) / (330 * 330) * 10 * 2 * 1.6 = 0.194 kg / m². That is, 2.5 kg packaging is enough for grouting the cladding with an area of ​​12.9 m². This will not be enough even for a small bathroom.

Grout carries a decorative load

With its help, it is possible to mask defects in seams, create the illusion of a monolithic coating, and focus on the geometric shape of the masonry. The color of the grout may be in the tone of the tile, or may contrast with it

• Cement. The composition is sold in the form of loose powder and may contain various additives. Kohler allows you to choose a grout for a specific tile color.
• Latex. Contains polymer particles that prevent the penetration of water into the structure of tile joints.
• Epoxy. It is made on the basis of epoxy resin. The grout also includes a catalyst.When the grout dries, it prevents water and steam from entering.

The choice of type of grout depends on each individual preference. Today the most popular is epoxy grout. It is easy to work with, it has several advantages over cement grout and with proper care can last more than fifty years.

Tile grout consumption

When facing the surface, the tile can be laid end-to-end or with gaps from 2 to 20 and even 30 mm. The end-to-end laying method is rarely used, since it does not allow to neutralize defects in the tile configuration and its deviations from the declared dimensions. Therefore, the suture method of laying with a fixed or variable width of the seam is mainly used, which is then rubbed with mortar, cement or special decorative, and with high-quality performance significantly increases the artistic value of the lining.

The joints filled with the mixture contribute to the moisture resistance of the tile.

The color options of the mixture can be as many as you like, but its required quantity can and should be calculated for reasons of economy. Before the calculation, we determine the factors that affect this:

• type of mixture
• tile size
• seam depth and width,
• tile thickness
• type of grout
• employee qualifications.

Consider these factors.

Planer tools

In work on jointing use the following tools:

• different types of spatulas, which clean the surface of glue, apply and distribute the puffer, smooth the seams,
• containers for water and mixing the mixture,
• kneading paddle
• foam sponge
• gloves
• pliers,
• sandpaper.

The solution is prepared in small portions, it should consist in consistency like thick sour cream. Crosses and glue residues between the tiles are removed from the wall. The rubber spatula carefully fill the distance between the tiles of the puffer. Excess solution is immediately removed with a foam sponge. The filled seams are left to dry, and then they are polished with fine sandpaper.

Type and size of the selected tile

First of all, the type and type of tile that you have chosen for facing in your home affects the correct calculation of tile adhesive. Different types absorb a different amount of adhesive, which will necessarily affect the main consumption. For example, glue for porcelain stoneware, the consumption per 1 m2 suggests minimal, because this type of cladding practically does not absorb water, being low-porous, and therefore glue for laying will be required several times less. Glazed and matte tiles will already require more raw materials for gluing, and most of the glue will be taken by the cotto tile and the one that is made by oneself.

It is worth paying attention to the irregularities on the back of the tile, its shape and size, because this will affect the consumption of tile glue

• Firstly, it is necessary to fill all the recesses, so that under the tile there are no time left air gaps, bubbles and voids, otherwise it may crack during operation.
• Secondly, the larger the tile itself, the harder it will be, therefore, glue to hold it on the wall will definitely require more.

Type of foundation and laying technology

If you want to minimize the consumption of glue for porcelain stoneware, tile or mosaic, you need to remember that only a smooth and even surface will save you money.

• Cracks, bumps, drops, protrusions and dents, all this will require additional consumption of the selected composition.
• So it makes sense at first to qualitatively prepare the walls, ceilings or floor coverings for laying, to level them, and, if necessary, to putty or even fill the screed if it comes to laying tiles on the floor.
• Absorbency of the base will definitely play a role, because a concrete wall will require much less glue than for plaster or even brickwork.

An important factor is the technology of laying tiles, because the consumption of glue can also depend on this. Straight parallel rows usually require less cost than patterns, panels, paintings and so on, because there you have to make sure that all the elements are securely fastened to the walls. The most difficult thing in this case, and at the same time, even more costly in terms of glue consumption, will work with a mosaic-scattering, which will have to be laid out one element at a time.

Qualification of the stacker, weather and climatic conditions, etc.

A huge role in ensuring the correct calculation, as well as saving the adhesive composition, is played by the qualifications of the veneer himself, who is engaged in this work. Moreover, the technique of applying glue plays a role, and only professional masters know all this by heart. For example, with a tilt of the spatula of sixty or sixty-five degrees, the flow rate increases significantly, and with a decrease in the angle it decreases. That is why real experts always hold the tool on the surface of the tiles and walls at angles of approximately forty or forty-five degrees. Enough glue is applied in this way and savings are observed.

It is important to consider temperature conditions and weather conditions when planning to lay tiles when you need to correctly calculate the glue consumption. It is possible to work with adhesives when the temperature reaches a level starting from five degrees, with low ambient humidity, up to thirty-five degrees of heat

However, professional craftsmen call the optimum temperature for laying tiles on the wall 17-25 degrees above zero on the Celsius scale.

In winter, in rooms without heating, there is a risk that the adhesive will lose all its qualities and properties. In the heat, special recommendations are also observed: the higher the temperature around, the more intensive it is to increase the humidity, even in an artificial order, that is, using special devices, and sometimes even banal buckets and rags with water. All this must be closely monitored if, as a result, you want to get a beautiful, reliable and durable coating, ready to serve you for more than a dozen years.

Types of mixtures

• cement
• dispersion
• epoxy based.

Cement mix is ​​more popular among finishers and amateurs due to the fact that it hardens slowly. Its elasticity is less than that of epoxy, therefore it is used with sufficient, i.e., more than 2 mm, seam depth.

The main component of cement grout is cement.

Therefore, the consumption of such a grout per 1m2 will be higher. But this amount is compensated by the long suitability of the prepared solution for use, makes it possible to correct small oversights and thereby reduces waste, and, consequently, the expense itself.

The problem of the elasticity of this type of grout is solved by the appearance of a dry mixture with latex additives instead of water. This increases water resistance, improving elasticity, allows you to use the mixture in the seams with a depth of less than 2 mm. Such glue is especially preferred for novice builders because of cost-effectiveness. Moreover, it is the cheapest mixture.

Dispersion mixtures have excellent viscosity and ductility, which allows them to be applied in an optimal layer. A huge advantage is that you do not need to prepare the solution yourself, since it is sold ready to use. But it is more expensive than cement glue, so it is not very popular, especially among pragmatic owners.

After grouting, there should be no empty space between the tiles

Epoxy mixtures contain an epoxy resin with a small amount of silicon hardener particles. When mixed, the components form a plastic substance, which after a certain time hardens during the chemical reaction. It must be remembered that such a mixture quickly sets, therefore, in order not to increase the consumption of material, you should start work as soon as possible. Usually it is used by professional finishers, since breeding requires experience using a chemical reaction catalyst.

Processing joints with epoxy grout can significantly increase their service life

For different manufacturers, the grout consumption per 1 m2 is approximately the same and amounts to 0.25 kg / m2–0.5 kg / m2. But for a more accurate calculation of grout consumption per 1 m2 there is a mathematical formula:

(A + B) / (A x B) x C x D x 1,6 - where A - tile length in mm, B - width in mm, C - thickness in mm, D - joint width, 1,6-coefficient the density of the solution.

For clarity, we will calculate the consumption of grout manufacturer "Ceresit" for tiles with a length of 200 (value A), width 200 (value B), thickness 2 (value C), joint width 4 (value D). All values ​​are in millimeters. There are no features for calculating the grout consumption of the Cerezit trademark, therefore we boldly use our formula to calculate what interests us.

Tile grout colors

We get: (200 + 200) x2x4x4.6 / (200x200) = 0.128 (kg / m2)

Translated into spoken language, we need 128 grams of solution per square meter. Knowing the price of this product, we can easily calculate how much you have to pay for the mixture for 1 m2 of tiles.

And if the solution is a different brand? For example, how much Atlas is needed?

Atlas is one of the most popular in the construction market. Atlas is a Polish construction company with 10 factories throughout Europe. He is engaged in the production and sale of materials for laying ceramic tiles.

The calculation of the Atlas grout per 1 m2 will be carried out identically, according to the above formula, and for this it is also necessary to know only the dimensions of the tile and the width of the seam.

With a size of 50x50 mm you will need:

• a) with a joint width between tiles of 2 mm - 0.5 kg / m2,
• b) with a joint width of 3 mm - 0.7 kg / m2.

Before you start grouting the seams of the mosaic, you need to thoroughly clean the surface of the tile from dust and dirt

As for the grouting of the mosaic, special calculations when laying the mosaic are not required. You only need to know that the mosaic requires more accurate handling than ordinary tiles, because excess glue not only increases the cost of repair, but also spoils the aesthetics of the mosaic, the original color of which from contact with the glue may change. The consumption of grouting on the mosaic is also calculated according to the formula already familiar to us:

(A + B) / (AxB) xCxDx1.6 and does not differ from the calculations for ordinary tiles.

The above formulas and calculation examples will help novice builders and those who want to try their hand at repair, calculate the need for materials in advance, use them more rationally and thereby avoid unjustified expenses.