Find HS Code and trade information for grout

Grout

Grout is a paste or slurry used to fill gaps between tiles, such as those in tile floors, walls, and countertops. It serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose, providing structural stability, preventing water penetration, and enhancing the overall appearance of tiled surfaces.

Material

Traditionally, grout was made from a mixture of sand, cement, and water. Modern grouts utilize a wider range of materials, categorized as follows:

• Cement-based grout: The most common type, offering durability and affordability. Variations exist based on sand content (sanded vs. unsanded) and polymer additives for improved performance.
• Epoxy grout: Composed of epoxy resins and hardeners, epoxy grout is highly durable, water-resistant, and stain-resistant. It’s often used in high-traffic areas and wet environments.
• Furan grout: A specialized grout offering exceptional chemical resistance, used in industrial settings with exposure to harsh chemicals.
• Acrylic grout: Contains acrylic polymers for flexibility and color consistency. It is easier to apply than cement-based grout but generally less durable.

Purpose & Function

• Filling gaps: The primary function is to fill the spaces between tiles, creating a uniform surface.
• Structural support: Grout contributes to the overall stability of the tiled surface, preventing tiles from shifting or cracking.
• Waterproofing: Grout seals the joints between tiles, preventing water from penetrating the substrate and causing damage.
• Preventing debris accumulation: Sealed grout prevents dirt, grime, and mold from accumulating in the joints.
• Aesthetic enhancement: Grout provides a visual finish to the tiled surface, complementing the tile color and design.

Usage Scenarios

• Floors: Grout is essential for filling joints between floor tiles in residential and commercial settings.
• Walls: Used in bathrooms, kitchens, backsplashes, and other wall applications.
• Countertops: Fills joints between countertop tiles, providing a water-resistant and hygienic surface.
• Showers: Epoxy grout is often preferred in showers due to its water resistance and mold resistance.
• Pools: Specialized grouts are used to withstand constant water exposure and chemicals.

Common Types

• Sanded Grout: Contains sand, providing strength and stability for wider joints (typically 1/8 inch or greater). Not recommended for polished tiles as the sand can cause scratching.
• Unsanded Grout: Lacks sand, making it suitable for narrow joints (less than 1/8 inch) and polished tiles. Offers a smoother finish.
• Non-Shrink Grout: Formulated to minimize shrinkage during curing, reducing the risk of cracking.
• Polymer-Modified Grout: Contains polymers to enhance flexibility, adhesion, and water resistance.
• Epoxy Grout: Two-part system (resin and hardener) offering superior durability, stain resistance, and chemical resistance. Requires careful mixing and application.

Grout typically refers to a cement-based material used to fill gaps between tiles, stones, or other similar construction materials. It provides structural support, prevents water penetration, and enhances the aesthetic appearance of surfaces. Based on its composition and application, several HS codes may be relevant.

Here are the potentially applicable HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 3824.50.00.50: Prepared binders for foundry molds or cores; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries (including those consisting of mixtures of natural products), not elsewhere specified or included: Nonrefractory mortars and concretes Other. This code covers nonrefractory mortars and concretes, which could include grout formulations.

  • 38: Chemical products. This chapter broadly covers a wide range of chemical substances and preparations.
  • 24: Prepared binders, mortars and concretes. This heading specifically focuses on mixtures primarily used for binding or filling.
  • 50: Nonrefractory mortars and concretes other. This subheading narrows down the scope to mortars and concretes not designed to withstand high temperatures.

• 2523.90.00.00: Portland cement, aluminous cement, slag cement, supersulfate cement and similar hydraulic cements, whether or not colored or in the form of clinkers: Other hydraulic cements. If the grout is primarily composed of hydraulic cement, this code may be applicable.

  • 25: Mineral products. This chapter covers a range of naturally occurring minerals and processed mineral products.
  • 23: Portland cement, aluminous cement, etc. This heading specifically focuses on hydraulic cements used in construction.
  • 90: Other hydraulic cements. This subheading covers hydraulic cements not specifically classified elsewhere.

• 2523.29.00.00: Portland cement, aluminous cement, slag cement, supersulfate cement and similar hydraulic cements, whether or not colored or in the form of clinkers: Portland cement: Other. If the grout is specifically a Portland cement-based formulation, this code may be applicable.

  • 25: Mineral products.
  • 23: Portland cement, aluminous cement, etc.
  • 29: Portland cement: Other. This subheading specifies Portland cement not further classified.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'grout' are limited, with only the following 3 found.

All listed HS codes have a:

• Basic tariff: 0.0%
• Additional tariff: 25.0%
• Tariff after April 2, 2025: 30.0%
• Total tariff: 55.0%