Grout is used to fill the gaps between walls, usually tiles, so that they stick together. For grout to work its magic, it should be left to dry for a reasonable amount of time; otherwise, all your efforts will be ruined.
On average, grout takes around 24-72 hours to dry. However, several factors play a role in determining how long grout takes to dry. This article will highlight these factors and why leaving your grout to dry is so important.
Factors that Impact Drying Time
Type of Grout Used
If you’re wondering, “how long does grout take to dry?”, then you should know the answer largely depends on the type of grout used. To know what type of grout you have used, you must check the packaging as it contains the specific information.
Here are the different types of grout and how long they may take to dry.
Cementitious Grout
This type of grout is usually used in residential projects. It is a sand-like texture that needs to be mixed in water before it’s applied. Due to this, the grout contains a water retentive additive that prevents the grout from absorbing too much moisture. This is why it takes a longer time for cementitious grout to dry. Cementitious grout takes 72 hours to dry.
Epoxy Grout
This grout is much harder to apply and is quite expensive. However, it is highly durable and works effectively. Epoxy grout is resistant to stains, grease, and weather changes, which means that it lasts longer. Unlike the cementitious grout, this type of grout does not need to be sealed, so this epoxy grout takes approximately 24 hours to dry.
Furan Grout
Furan grout is commonly used in industrial projects. It is quite similar to epoxy grout in its durability and resistance. However, unlike epoxy grout, furan grout is made of polymers of fortified alcohol. The average drying time for this grout is typically 24 hours.
Humidity Levels of the Room
The humidity level of the room also impacts the grout’s drying period. The humidity level in each room differs. For instance, a bathroom is more humid than the rest of the house due to the moisture. Thus, the grout will take longer to dry here than in a kitchen.
When it comes to different climates, grout often takes longer to dry in tropical climates than in dry climates.
The presence of plants in a room can also impact grout’s drying time because they leave moisture in the room. Therefore, in places where there are plants, grout takes longer to dry.
Final Thoughts
In short, how long grout takes to dry depends on various factors that you should be mindful of. Allowing your grout to dry is important for successful tile application, particularly in the long run. Otherwise, several issues may arise, such as cracking, weak joints, mold growth, and mildew.
Grout application is a process that requires patience and precision. Therefore, it’s certainly a professional’s job. If you’re looking to seal your grouts by experienced professionals, Grout Magnificent specializes in doing just that and more. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us here.