You should never grout any corners in a shower, backsplash, etc. I’m still surprised at how many people still do this. It will always crack with expansion and contraction. Every time. Caulking is the correct thing to do, but can big a big pain due to the caulking be pushed out onto the grout. It can make a big mess if you aren’t super careful. To remedy this, I like to caulk (color match as often as possible) before I grout. Your corners will never crack, will be water tight in a shower, and you don’t have to be careful when applying the grout. It will wipe right off the cured caulking with a wet sponge.
More There's a Better Way - Fine Homebuilding Reader Quick Tips
View All-
Notching Deck Posts With a Chainsaw
-
Using a Zip Line for Quick Demo Removal - AKA "The Flying Bathtub"
-
WINNING ENTRY UPDATE: We're Giving Away a Miter Saw
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
The team offers expert advice on building an affordable new home that follows building-science best practices.
Discussion Forum
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Video
View All Videos-
FHB Podcast Segment: Building a Paintable Surface Over a Traditional Stone Wall
-
FHB Podcast Segment: Advice for an Efficient and Affordable New Build
-
FHB Podcast Segment: Is Foam Against Form Boards a Good Idea for a Garage Slab?
-
FHB Podcast Segment: XPS Insulation on Basement Walls
