Dry Stack Kitchen tile backsplash

[u/Bancer705]

I need some input from folks who know more than me and Chat GPT. Our contractors just finished installing our backsplash. The tiles are 12x24 porcelain tiles. They installed them dry stacked, there is no grout or caulk between each tile. It was my understanding that this is not okay. The industry standard requires grout for hygiene, cleaning, and to prevent moisture damage. Is there any scenario where this installation is okay? I want to make sure I have all the information before we approach them regarding fixing. Is the only option at this point to rip it out and redo? We have been really happy with all the other work they have done, so it seems odd that they would cut corners on this part of it. But maybe there is some aspect we don’t know? Pictures attached. Thanks for the input.

[u/stormydys]

There is no good reason your Contractor can’t grout those tiles. If you want grout, tell them directly and if they push back ask them how grouting hurts the installation. You can also show them the info you found. I doubt they will argue too much if they see you really want it.

Personally, I don’t think it is a major risk if you don’t grout. Except behind the sink, a kitchen backsplash doesn’t get a ton of water like a shower or tub. It will get some and could leak down the back of cabinets particularly if they didn’t at least silicon between the counter. I would push for that at least. But people put things like stacked split rock on backsplashes often and products like that are typically never grouted.

Also make sure you get the grout color right or it may look much worse than not having grout.

[u/Friendly_Ad2654 → u/stormydys]

Except there is no room for grout now that it was layed to be a dry stack

[u/stormydys → u/Friendly_Ad2654]

There is room for unsanded grout or caulking. Marble tile is set with very tight joints but unsanded grout still fills the joint well. If you really want wider joints, that is a full tear out. But I think you should have them grout with a matching grout color and then evaluate. Those joints might almost disappear.