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Caulk and grout are two different materials with different purposes and should not be used interchangeably. Grout is used to fill the gaps between tiles; it hardens to keep them sturdy and in place on walls or floors. Caulk, on the other hand, is a flexible, waterproof material used to seal corners, cracks, and edges, such as where a tub meets tile or around windows for weatherproofing. Caulk can also be used to temporarily repair damaged grout.

Sanded grout contains particles of sand, making the grout more resistant to cracking. This durability makes sanded grout well suited for tile floors. It is also less prone to thinning out and forming bubbles when it cures, so you can spread it into larger joints.

Unsanded grout is much smoother, so you will want to use it when working with tile made from glass or polished stone. Any sand could leave scratches on the tile’s surface. The lack of sand also makes unsanded grout thinner, making it best for tile joints that are less than one-eighth-inch thick.

You can definitely regrout your backsplash without removing the tile. Much like regrouting a tile floor, you’ll have to remove the original grout carefully with a grout removal blade on a multi-tool or a dremel tool, being careful not to damage the surrounding tile. To get all of the grout, you’ll probably have to use a utility knife to get any stubborn pieces. Once the grout is removed, you can clean the area thoroughly and then add your new grout.

To prolong durability, use quality sealants, avoid dropping heavy objects, perform regular maintenance checks for water leaks, and keep the tiles clean.