21+ How to Choose Grout Color?
ID# 182401 – Product BA631613 – Modern Gray Marble Chevron Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Marble Chevron Backsplash Tiles with White Grout
Needless to say, marble is one of the most popular backsplash materials. And thanks to the wide variety of shapes and forms you can create eye-catching backdrops for your kitchen. In this contemporary kitchen, the marble chevron tile backsplash is accentuated with white grout, exuding timeless elegance. The white quartz countertops and upper cabinets flawlessly complement the light and airy feel of the white marble tiles. Below, the dark blue base cabinets add a splash of color to enhance the monochrome color scheme.
ID# 182411 – Product BA631613 – Modern Gray Marble Chevron Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Marble Chevron Backsplash with Black Grout
Chevron is one of the most popular layout options for backsplash tiles. This zigzag pattern is just one stylish method of revitalizing and elevating dull wall spaces into something extraordinary. And to make a bold statement, opt for a contrasting grout color! Here, the white marble chevron backsplash tiles are adorned with a black grout which emphasizes the pattern even more. The light gray cabinets lend volume to the timelessness of marble tiles. In the middle of the cabinets, the three rows of wood floating shelves and the white farmhouse sink create a focal point.
How to Choose Grout Color?
Backsplashes are one of the most important design elements for kitchens and bathrooms as cabinets, vanities, and countertops. And when it comes to the backsplash, tiles are the most popular and common materials for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes. The type, shape, and color of the tiles can make a huge difference in the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom. But, did you know that grout color also plays an important role in the overall look of your tiles? Choosing a tile color, shape, and layout is the fun part of designing a kitchen or bathroom but between all these decisions, we forget about the other design element: grout color. So, how to choose the grout color for the backsplash? In this article, you will find different grout colors and learn how to incorporate them into your design project!
How to Choose Grout Color for Backsplash?
The first step in finding a perfect grout color for your backsplash is choosing the right type of grout. Grout is a porous material that needs to be sealed and that’s why the quality of your grout is an important matter for the maintenance of your backsplash. Choosing the grout type depends on the material and the size of the gaps between the tiles. You can go with sanded, unsanded, or epoxy-based grout according to your tiles. To learn more about these types and the application of grout, check this article.
Once you have decided on your grout type, it is time to decide on a grout color. The color of your grout is as important as the color of your tiles because the right color choice can enhance the visual interest of your backsplash! Besides its visual impact, a grout color also affects the daily maintenance requirements of your tile installation. There is no wrong grout color choice but it is an effective element. So, don’t underestimate it!
ID# 182402 – Product BA1063 – Rusty Brown & Gray Slate Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Navy Blue Cabinets with Rustic Slate Mosaic Tile Backsplash
Due to their neutral colors, natural stone tiles offer warm and inviting spaces. To complement this warmth and create a balanced look, a gray grout color will never let you down! In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the slate mosaic tile backsplash makes a rustic twist against the clean and sleek lines of the navy blue cabinets. The gray grout flawlessly complements the rusty brown and gray color of the tiles. While the richly stained wood range hood completes the rustic feel, the pure white quartz countertops enlighten the atmosphere. The brass hardware makes a cohesive final touch that enhances the sense of sophistication.
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
Should grout be lighter or darker than tile?
Just like the tile colors, the choice of grout basically depends on the overall look that you desire! While the lighter grout colors are better for creating a cohesive appeal, darker shades offer a more dramatic and edgy look. If you have a light-colored backsplash and want to create a fresh backdrop, a lighter grout color will be the most failsafe option. If you want to emphasize the tile pattern, darker colors will help you to achieve your goal. You can also match the tile and grout color to create a seamless look!
ID# 182403 – Product BA6702 – Calacatta Gold Marble Look White Glass Picket Mosaic Tile
How to Choose Grout Color for White Tiles?
If you have such a distinctive tile shape, why not emphasize it even more with grout? But you don’t have to use necessarily dark-colored grout, even a beige grout can give this contrast. Here, for example, the white glass picket mosaic tile backsplash acts as a piece of art thanks to the beige grout color, creating an accent wall. The calacatta gold marble-like textures of this mosaic add a touch of opulence to the space. For the rest, the beige and dark wood cabinets and paneled range hood offer an elegant frame for the tiles while the white quartz countertops seamlessly blend with the backsplash.
Consideration Points for Grout Color
The color of the grout plays a huge role in the visual part of the backsplashes. With a well-chosen grout color, you can create visual illusions to make the space feel larger or emphasize the pattern of your beautiful tiles. When choosing a grout color, there are some consideration points.
1. Application Size
When choosing the grout color, first you need to consider the application size. For example, If you are working on a large area, using contrasting grout colors with your tiles will create a more complex look and it may be overwhelming. On the other hand, matching the grout and tile color will create a cohesive and continuous surface which can make the space feel larger.
2. Tile Shape
In today’s market, backsplash tiles come in a wide variety of shape options. The grout color gives you the opportunity to draw attention to your tile layout or tile shape. So, if you want to emphasize the shape and layout of your tiles, you can make a statement by choosing a contrasting grout color.
3. Patterns
Just like the classic white subway tiles, you can find also patterned tile options. And if you are using these tiles, using neutral grout will create a balanced look. Also, finding a neutral balance will let the tile pattern be the focus.
ID# 182404 – Product BA8004 – Black & Gray Textured Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Dark Gray Cabinets with Textured Glass Mosaic Tile Backsplash
Since mosaic tiles can create striking appeal, you need to choose a grout color that balances this look to avoid an overwhelming feel. In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the black and gray glass mosaic tile backsplash creates a visually striking focal point. And the white grout is a perfect choice to add clean and fresh lines. While the dark gray cabinets anchor the space, the light gray countertops create a cohesive look. The metallic cabinet hardware makes a harmonious final touch that enhances the modern aesthetic.
How do I know what color grout to use?
Even though the choice of a grout color is somewhat a matter of taste, there are a few key factors that you need to consider. First, you need to consider the overall effect you want to achieve. On the other hand, grout can either match or be contrasting to your chosen tile colors. This is up to you and your taste. Another factor may be maintenance. The resolution for this would probably be that darker grout colors are more or less stain-forgiving compared to the ones with lighter colors that tend to need frequent cleaning.
ID# 182405 – Product BA5507 – Blue Glass Herringbone Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Beach-style Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances
Neutral colors, especially gray, are perfect grout colors to create a balanced look! In this beachy kitchen, the blue glass herringbone tile backsplash evokes the movement of ocean waves while the light gray grout creates a subtle appeal. The bluish-gray kitchen cabinets perfectly complement the beachy vibes of the backsplash tiles. The gray marble countertops add a touch of luxury and the stainless steel appliances give a modern polish.
White Mosaic Tiles
Grout Color Styles
Grout color affects everything in the overall style. So, you need to take your time and consider different options. But how to find the right grout color? Should grout be lighter or darker than tile? Should grout match with the backsplash? These questions might be bothering you. Don’t worry, below you can find three main grout styles that can help you.
01-Match Grout with Tile Color
If you want to create a sleek backdrop with your backsplash, we suggest matching your grout color to your tile color. When using a matching grout color, the grout lines and the shape of the individual tiles won’t be obvious, and this way you can draw attention to the overall look of the backsplash and not necessarily the pattern. Also, if you are working on a small kitchen, matching the grout color to the tile will be a good way to make the space feel larger by creating a spacious atmosphere. Otherwise, patterns might be overwhelming in a small space. This style works best with neutral colors. For example, you can finish your bright white tiles with white grout to keep the look clean and fresh or create a bold focal point by matching the black tiles with black grout!
ID# 182406 – Product BA6705 – White Shell & Crackle Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Light Gray Cabinets with White Glass Mosaic Backsplash
If you want to create a clean and seamless appeal for your backsplash, a white tile with bright white grout color combinations will never let you down! This gorgeous transitional kitchen will give you a glimpse of the gracious ambiance created by the white glass mosaic tile backsplash that glitters like a diamond, resulting in a bright and comfortable cooking and dining environment. A white grout is just the component that can make this look perfect. The Caesarstone quartz countertops with a white color flow nicely with the tiling while the light gray cabinets set the whole kitchen in a smooth and sophisticated style. The gold-hued cabinet hardware lends a luxurious endnote!
What kind of grout is best for backsplash?
Even if it seems like a small detail, grout is a substance designed for application between tiles. While the color choice of the grout is just a matter of personal preference, the type of the grout is not. There are two different types of grout: sanded and unsanded. Each of them has specific applications and areas of usage. Well-suited floor applications, sanded grout is a type of cement grout that includes a small amount of sand to increase durability. Also, it is better to use sanded grout for wider gaps, typically 1/8 inch or more.
The unsanded grout is generally used for vertical surfaces like kitchen backsplashes or wall tiles. As the name suggests, an unsanded grout does not contain sand particles which is ideal for narrow grout lines, less than 1/8 inch. Besides these classic options, there are also different options like epoxy grout, polymer grout, or furan resin grout!
ID# 182407 – Product BA62046 – Glossy White Glass & Marble Diamond Mosaic Tile
All-white Kitchen with Glossy Backsplash and Brass Hardware
Another great example of how the combination of a white tile with white grout can create a clean and fresh backdrop. Even though the white glass backsplash tiles have the same crisp white color as the white shaker cabinets and quartz countertops, the glossy finish and the diamond pattern of the mosaic give it a more distinctive appeal. However, all-white kitchen designs, like this one, sometimes need some details to avoid too-cold or sterilized feel. Here, the brass cabinet hardware breaks the white dominance, adding much-needed warmth to the space.
ID# 182408 – Product BA1081 – Modern Black Long Slate Backsplash Tile
How to Choose Grout Color for Black Backsplash Tiles
White on white is not the only combination for a method of matching tile and grout colors. You can also apply this method to your black tiles and use a black grout. This combination will create a sleek, seamless, and dramatic backdrop for your kitchen. In this transitional kitchen, the black shaker cabinets anchor the space, creating a sophisticated foundation. The modern black slate tile backsplash perfectly completes this appeal while the black grout provides a continuous look. the white quartz countertops and stainless steel range hood enlighten the atmosphere with a modern flair.
02- Create Contrast with Grout
If you want to make a statement with the shape of your tiles, choosing a contrasting grout color will emphasize the beautiful shape of your tiles and create an eye-catching pattern. Whether it is a classic white subway tile or a modern hex tile, a contrasting color for tile grout will draw attention to your backsplash at first sight! You can go with a dark-colored backsplash and a light grout or the opposite way and either way creating a contrast makes tile more of a feature. On the other hand, the sharp contrast between the tiles and grout might be overwhelming, especially if you want to use them in a large area of the room. That’s why you need to consider the size of the application area.
ID# 182409 – Product BA1081 – Modern Black Long Slate Backsplash Tile
Contemporary Kitchen with Gray Cabinets and Countertops
If you decide to use black backsplash tiles and want to emphasize the pattern, using a contrasting grout will help you achieve your goal! In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the black vertical tile backsplash reaches through the ceiling, offering a dramatic backdrop. The light gray grout emphasizes the vertical grid pattern that enhances the modern aesthetic. Below, the light gray cabinet and granite countertops complement the grout lines and provide a sleek and elegant foundation for the backsplash.
ID# 182410 – Product BA5501 – Marble Look Blue Glass Hexagon Backsplash Tile
Blue Glass Hexagon Mosaic Backsplash Design with White Grout
In this contemporary kitchen, the glass hexagon tile backsplash directly draws attention with its bold blue color! The white grout strongly contrasts with the blue tiles and emphasizes the geometrical tile layout. The marble-like textures of this blue backsplash inject a dose of opulence into the design and evoke the serene feel of ocean waves. The white shaker cabinets and the white countertops enhance the contrast while the wood floor and the kitchen island bring a warm feel to the atmosphere.
Find Neutral Balance
Subtle neutral colors are a safe and effective way of bringing together multiple tile colors to obtain a tidy and uninterrupted appearance! If you are looking for something more balanced which is between matching and contrasting colors, these shades will be a perfect fit. For example, if you decide to go with a green or blue backsplash tile, you can complement it with a gray grout. This way, you can create a well-balanced and harmonious backdrop for your kitchen.
ID# 182412 – Product BA8020 – Metallic Black & Gray Beveled Glass Backsplash Tile
Two-tone Cabinetry with Metallic Beveled Backsplash Tiles
If you are bored with classic backsplash designs, you will love this one! Adorned with a metallic finish, the black and gray glass tiles create a sophisticated appeal. Between the tiles, the gray grout creates a seamless look with the tiles, providing a subtle base. The gray countertops and black upper cabinets complement the shades of the tiles while the wood perimeter cabinets balance the cold neutrals!
ID# 182413 – Product BA1080 – Modern Rosewood & Gray Marble Backsplash Tile
Natural Wood Cabinets with Modern Marble Tiles and Gray Countertop
Marble stone is known for its gorgeous veining. And if you want to create a cohesive look, you can choose a grout color that matches these veins. In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the rosewood and gray veining of the modern marble backsplash tiles are complemented by a beige grout color, creating a harmonious whole. For the rest, the natural wood cabinets and gray countertops complete the warm appeal of the backsplash!
ID# 182414 – Product BA1123 – Multicolor Glass & Metal Mosaic Backsplash Tile
How to Choose the Right Grout Color for Multicolored Mosaic Tiles?
Since some mosaic tiles have a distinctive appeal that consists of more than one color, using a complementary grout color might be a better option to avoid an overwhelming feel. Here, for instance, the multicolored mosaic tile backsplash is complemented with light beige grout lines which provides a cohesive look with the brown, gray, and beige colors of the neutral tile mosaic. The wood countertops are the other great choice to enhance this warm sense. The dark gray cabinets with their flat-panel door style provide a sleek and modern foundation.
Common Grout Colors
Grout color is an equally important design element that can instantly elevate the look of the backsplash tiles. Whether you want to emphasize your tiles by creating a contrast with the grout or want to create a neutral backdrop for your space, choosing the right grout color is essential to a successful tile design. When it comes to color options, white, black, and gray are the most frequently used grout colors for all types of backsplashes. Besides these classic options, you can still find lots of different alternatives from pink to blue, orange, red, or even gold!
White Grout
When it comes to grout colors, white is one of the most popular options. It is flexible enough and can blend well with many tile colors and styles, including classic subway tiles or trendy mosaics with various colors! For example, if you want to create a seamless and fresh backdrop for your kitchen, a white backsplash with white grout will be the most failsafe option. On the other hand, white grout can be a contrasting finish to a dark colored backsplash tile like a black subway tile.
But in contrast with dark grout type, white grout has the characteristic of showing noticeable dirt more quickly. Hence, the reason why it is a requirement to clean the grout lines frequently to ensure their sparkly looks.
ID# 182415 – Product BA8001 – Sparkled White Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
How to Choose a Grout Color for White Subway Tiles?
There is no doubt that white subway tiles are the most preferable option for kitchen backsplashes! And if you want to create an all-white kitchen design, accentuate your tiles with white grout. A white subway tile backsplash with white grout is a timeless option that can work with any design aesthetic. Here, this combination is complemented with white shaker-style cabinets and white quartz countertops. The brass cabinet knobs make a sparkled final touch that injects a dose of warmth.
ID# 182416 – Product BA5504 – Marble Look White Glass Picket Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Gray and White Cabinets with Glass Picket Backsplash
If you want your design to look rich and luxurious, invest in a high-end material like glass! Here the marble-look glass picket tile backsplash pairs perfectly with gray and white kitchen cabinets. The white tile backsplash creates a focal point, while the white grout between the tiles creates a seamless look. The metallic hardware adds a tiny gesture to the cabinets to allow for an easy grip.
Black Grout
Due to its sleek, modern, and edgy appearance, black grout has become an increasingly popular choice for backsplashes. A black grout can easily create a high-contrast look that makes your backsplash a focal point with a bold and dramatic look. Unlike white grout, black can perfectly hide imperfections. You can create a striking contrast by using white tiles with black grout or complement the dramatic appeal of your tiles. However, if your kitchen lacks natural light or is too small, dark colors tend to visually recede.
ID# 182417 – Product BA6307 – Pure White Marble Geometric Mosaic Backsplash Tile
White Marble Geometrical Tile Backsplash with Black Grout
Geometrical tile backsplashes have been increasing their popularity in 2024 trends. And if you want to emphasize the impact of these tiles, opt for a contrasting grout color! For example, this pure white marble backsplash is accentuated with a black grout that draws attention to these eye-catching geometric patterns. Keeping the rest white is a great way to make the backsplash tiles the star of the show.
Gray Mosaic Tiles
What color grout is easiest to keep clean?
When it comes to cleaning the grout lines, color plays a significant role. Due to its ability to hide imperfections, a neutral gray color offers an easy to clean grout lines. White or black grout colors require more maintenance than gray grout. Yet whether you choose black, gray, white, or any other grout color in the end, regular cleaning is very important to avoid dirt, grime, and mildew from forming.
ID# 182418 – Product BA4503 – Modern Long Gray Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Modern Scandinavian Kitchen with Gray Cabinets
Due to their sleek and elegant appeal, ceiling-height backsplashes are a favorite for modern kitchen designs. To make a bolder statement, you can use contrasting colors for your tiles and grout lines. In this modern Scandinavian kitchen, the modern gray porcelain tile backsplash reaches through the ceiling, creating a sleek backdrop. The black grout of the tiles emphasizes the vertical grid pattern that enhances the space height. While the gray cabinets, white quartz countertops, and black hardware offer a cohesive look with the tiles, the wood floating shelves maximize functionality.
Gray Grout
If you are looking for something between white and black, a gray grout color will be a perfect choice! A gray grout is softer than a black but easier to work with than white. Since it will stay cleaner for a longer time, it is the most suitable grout color for backsplashes. You can use a very light gray color to mimic the bright and clean appearance of white grout or use a darker grout shade to create a contrasting look!
ID# 182419 – Product BA1065 – Rusty Brown & Gray Slate Chevron Mosaic Tile
Modern Rustic Kitchen with Slate Tiles and Gray Countertops
If you decide to use a natural stone backsplash tile, a gray grout color might be the best option to create a cohesive appeal! In this modern rustic kitchen, the rustic slate chevron backsplash tiles are complemented by gray grout, creating a harmonious whole. The natural wood cabinets and gray countertops are a perfect match for this rustic backsplash design. To modernize the overall look, the brass cabinet hardware and glass pendant lights make a final touch with a warm glow.
Can I change the color of my grout lines?
Since old, dirty, and stained grout can easily break even the most beautiful tile look, changing the grout color is the best option to give a fresh look to backsplashes. The easiest DIY method to change the color of the grout is staining. You can apply a colored stain to the existing grout to change its color. You can easily find these products from your local home improvement store!
The other way is to replace the old grout. This method might seem difficult but with the right tools and patience, you can do it. For this method, first, you need to remove the old grout. You can use a manual grout saw or a multi-tool fitted with a tile blade to remove the grout. And clean up the tile edges with a utility knife. Once you have been sure all the grout particles have been removed, apply the new grout and let it dry overnight.
ID# 182420 – Product BA2007 – Modern Warm Gray Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Marble Subway Tile Backsplash
If you want to merge practicality with timeless elegance, a marble subway tile backsplash might be the one! When the classic subway pattern meets with the elegance of the marble stone, the result is just stunning. And if you are using warm gray marble tiles, you can create a harmonious backdrop by adding a subtle neutral-colored grout. The two-tone cabinetry which consists of white and wood shades perfectly completes the elegant look of the backsplash.
Black Mosaic Tiles
ID# 182421 – Product BA1079 – Modern Long Gray & White Marble Backsplash Tile
How to Choose Grout Color for Marble Tiles?
Since marble tiles are known for their beautiful veining, it might be better to use a grout color that complements them. Here, for example, the modern marble backsplash and the light gray grout create a sleek and elegant backdrop for the kitchen. The light gray cabinets and white Silestone quartz countertops create a harmonious whole.
