TS EN 13888-1

TS EN 13888-1 is the standard for grouts used with ceramic tiles, covering requirements, classification, designation, marking and labelling. In a tiled finish, grout is the material that fills the joints between tiles; in general technical terms, it contributes to the finished appearance and helps define the joint performance of the tile assembly when the right product is selected for the application.

How the product families are organised

The document specifies performance requirements for cementitious grouts and reaction resin grouts for ceramic tiles. This distinction matters because the two families are based on different binder chemistries and hardening mechanisms. In general, cementitious grouts are mixed with water and harden by hydration, while reaction resin grouts cure through a chemical reaction and therefore tend to have different application behaviour and performance characteristics.

Its scope applies to grouts for internal and external wall and floor tile installations. It also notes that these grouts may be used with other tile types, such as natural and agglomerated stones, where they do not adversely affect those materials. The standard does not set criteria or recommendations for the design or installation of ceramic tile work itself.

Terminology, identification and user information

The standard also provides terminology for the products and a framework for working methods, helping users understand how the grout is identified, which performance class it belongs to and what information should appear on marking and labelling. More broadly, such standards support consistent product description and make it easier to compare grout types intended for the same technical use.

• Applies to internal and external wall and floor tile installations.
• Covers performance requirements for cementitious and reaction resin grouts.
• Does not provide criteria or recommendations for tile design or installation.
• May also be used for other tile types such as natural and agglomerated stone, provided the materials are not adversely affected.
• Includes designation, marking and labelling provisions.