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backsplash grout /caulk question

16 years ago

Hi all,

I recently had my backsplash installed. It appears that the tile guy grouted the line where tile meets granite countertop. I questioned the contractor and it sounds like he is planning on caulking over the grout. Doesn't the grout have to be removed before caulking? Please advise.

Thanks so much.

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Comments (7)

imrainey
16 years ago
My GC did the small amount of tile backsplash in my kitchen. He grouted down to the counter and didn't use any caulk at all.

I don't understand why you'd want to add another element.
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shaughnn
16 years ago
Hello Kathy and Rainey,
The caulk should be applied at all of the changes of plane. The caulk will then act as an expansion joint to prevent pressure from expanding and contracting structure from adversely affecting your tile and grout. Because most backsplashes are cosmetic, it's not very important if your contractor eliminated this step as a caulked joint can often be more conspicuous than a light crack where the slab and tile meet.
Shaughnn
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imrainey
16 years ago
Thanks for the explanation.
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ctkathy
Original Author
16 years ago
So, would you have the grout removed and caulk applied at the change of plane? I would specifiy the caulk had to match the grout if that is possible.

Sounded like he was going to caulk over the grout at the change of plane.
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glad
16 years ago
kathy - do a search for "change of plane". you'll find a couple of threads suggesting removing the grout and that only caulk be used where the counter and splash meet.
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natal
16 years ago
Yes, the grout needs to be removed before the caulk is applied. Same thing happened here even though I specified caulk. You should be able to find the caulk in a color that matches the grout.
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bill_vincent
16 years ago
You should be able to find the caulk in a color that matches the grout.

At the same place your grout was purchased.
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