With some overlap in cementitious ingredients, grout and mortar do share a few properties.
But largely, grout and mortar should not be used interchangeably.
What Are Grout and Mortar?
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Groutis used for filling joints or seams between tiles, andmortaris used as a bonding agent underneath the tiles.
What Is Grout?
Groutfills and firms up the spaces between tiles.
By bridging from one tile to the next, grout prevents chips and cracks from developing along the edges.
When color-fast pigment is added, grout becomes a part of tile’s overall look.
What Is Mortar?
Thinset mortar comes in both dry and premixed forms.
Premixed thinset mortar is more expensive but it offers the benefits of convenience and predictable mixture ratios.
Can You Use Grout and Mortar Interchangeably?
Grout and mortar should not be used interchangeably.
Since both are formulated for specific uses, there is almost no overlap in function.
Having a few spots of thinset between tiles is acceptable.
Usually, it’s best to scrape out as much of the excess thinset as possible before it hardens.
Use an old screwdriver, extra tile spacer, or wet tiling sponge.
“Masonry Mortar Testing.
“National Concrete Masonry Association.
