Grout, in simple terms, is a thick paste that has many applications. It is generally used to conjoin tiles to keep them in place. It is typically cement-based and is used by the majority of contractors for both residential and commercial projects. For many years cement-based grouts were being widely used everywhere as it was doing its job in the way it was intended to. But not any longer! It’s about time that we start replacing the traditional grout with something more advanced and apt. When there are better options available for tiling projects, why stick to the outdated ones, right?
Due to regular wear and tear and other similar factors, tiling in the bathrooms and kitchen starts to look dull, faded and begrimed. This happens when the grout becomes flaky and starts to chip off from the surfaces. To stop this from happening you need a better sealing option for your tiling.
If you are also looking for an answer to this question, please keep reading. As in this blog post, we will learn more about a fantastic alternative to regular grout, so now that we have your attention, let’s dive right into knowing in-depth about epoxy grout!
Sanded grout has its definition printed on the box itself that you pick up from your local hardware store. It says, sanded grout is a standard grouting material in which a portion of sand material is added to make it perfect to use. Sanded grout is best suited for 1/8-inch to 1/2-inch grout lines, over and above makes it more prone to cracks and imperfections.
It is held together with fine particles of sand which leads to increased stability and provides better resistance to cracks as well. Sanded grout is best suitable for floor tiles as it creates a tougher bond and shrinks comparatively less.
Sanded grout in nature is very absorbent and hence you have to seal it immediately post application. It attracts more dirt and grime as well.
Unsanded Grout
Unsanded grout contains zero sand component. It is typically used for thin grout lines and delicate surfaces like glass tiles. It is generally a mixture of water, cement and non-sand particles. Because of the zero-sand component in the mixture, the durability of the grout is compromised and it also shrinks when applied to large grout joints. It is used for joints that are below 1/8 of an inch.
It is best used for vertical tile surfaces like in the bathrooms and shower areas because it sticks better to vertical surfaces where durability is not much of a concern. Also, they won’t crack because there isn’t any pressure applied to them. Like sanded grout, it also takes 72 hours of drying time before you can safely expose it to moisture.
Furan Grout
Furan grout is made of polymers of fortified alcohols and hence is labelled as chemical-resistant. There is absolutely no water at all in this type of grout. It is best recommended for areas that are constantly exposed to chemicals and grease like industrial structures.
The installation using furan grout is extremely difficult and hence is best suited for laboratories, and dairies. It should always be handled by professionals as high precautions should be exercised while mixing such grout to avoid inhaling its vapours. It shares great similarities with epoxy grout.
Epoxy Grout
Here comes the grout that has gained a lot of limelight in recent times due to its features and abilities. It uses no Portland cement or water during the mixing process. Epoxy grout is purely made of epoxy resin, silica fillers, pigments, and a hardener.
They are less porous thus making them ideal for places with high grease and stickiness such as Kitchens. Over the years, it has gained immense popularity among tillers as they have started using epoxy grout in industrial areas as well. It can withstand adversities like high temperatures and maximum stain resistance.
Reasons Why You Should Consider Using Epoxy Grout
Highly Durable
Epoxy grout is an extremely strong and durable component. It is sometimes regarded as stronger than the tiles themselves. Certain features like its durability and chemically resistant material make it lasts a lifetime. It is versatile and extremely sturdy and therefore is a preferred choice for areas with high footfall and high pressure typically your living room and hallway.
For commercial spaces, epoxy grout is best suited for malls, restaurants, hospitals, and more as the footfall is high and the chances of crumbling and cracking are more.
One of the hero features of epoxy grout is its non-porous nature. Due to this, the surfaces are saved from a lot many problems like mould and mildew growth. Components such as air and water cannot pass through thus making the material perfect for wet environments like bathrooms, chemical handling rooms, stain-prone areas like Kitchen backsplash and more. So, keep your surfaces safe from any damage by applying epoxy grout.
Easy Cleaning
Epoxy grout is a stain-resistant material which is easy to maintain and ensures easy cleaning as well. Just clean it with a damp cloth when you spot dust, dirt or any stain on the tiles.
Different colours and textures are available
If you are a lover of a seamless look, then opt for epoxy grout as there are a plethora of colour options available. Opt for a colour that will match the tile colour of your kitchen to create the look your heart desires. Choose the colour of your choice and keep it intact all through the structure’s life.
No fear of discolouration
Do you hate when the colour of the grout changes due to stains or oil spills or other similar issues? Then try filling the joints with epoxy grout. No component will cause discolouration when it will come in contact with the epoxy.
Types of Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout comes in 3 different variations that include:
Laticrete Spectral LOCK Pro Premium
SpectraLOCK Pro Full unit
Ceramic Tile Pro Super Grout Additive
Laticrete is considered the best type of epoxy grout in the market in today’s time. It is made from a combination of hardener, epoxy, and sand.
Epoxy v/s Cement Grout
If you are still unsure and you have two minds regarding your initial cement grout choice then please refer to the below-mentioned pointers that show the comparison between both types of grouts.
Cement grout or traditional grout is made of a cement-based mixture that absorbs water in a moisture-based environment whereas epoxy grout is made of epoxy resins after combing with a filler powder that makes it waterproof and also stain-resistant.
Epoxy grout is highly durable and hence is the best choice for areas with splashes, high-traffic and floors whereas cement grout requires rigorous scrubbing to get the blots off the surface which hampers the life of the tile.
Epoxy grout as mentioned earlier is highly durable and hence won’t crack, shrink, or even discolour. It makes it ideal for application in wet areas such as showers and jacuzzis, cement grout on the other hand shrinks easily with time.
Unlike traditional cement-based grout, epoxy grout is non-porous and hence doesn’t require to be sealed. Also, because of its non-porous nature, it doesn’t react to chemicals, stains, and harsh cleaning liquids.
If you are in love with the colour of your cement grout then we would advise you to be prepared to face heartbreak as you would have to face discolouration soon, whereas, in epoxy grout, your favourite colour will last forever as it allows neither chemicals nor moisture to penetrate inside.
Epoxy is the need of the hour due to the fascinating improvements it has showcased over cement grout. But like all things good, this also has its challenges and pitfalls to fight from. So we would just advise you to decide wisely!
Epoxy application is a task in itself, you have to have precision and strength to finish the process efficiently. Epoxy application takes longer and is more difficult to apply if compared with traditional grout. Also, it sets quickly, so you have to have lightning speed while applying the epoxy. Else the mixture will solidify and go to waste which you do not want as it’s already exuberant on the pocket.
To solve the issue of solidifying you have two options:
Make the entire chunk of epoxy grout and divide it into batches, keep a little portion with yourself and refrigerate the excess.
Only activate the quantity you need while working, once that gets over, activate another batch and begin working, and so on.
Also, grout application needs teamwork, as post-application stains should be cleaned fast as they can solidify and deteriorate the quality of the tile. Another alternative to this is, that you can seal the tiles before grouting. This will save your beautiful tiles from getting destroyed.
The epoxy mixture is quite heavy to work with and hence you need strength to smear the mixture around. Therefore, an important tip to remember is to divide the mixture into manageable sections and work with only the amount you need at that moment.
Not everything is perfect, right? This wonder grout also has many downsides. Let’s discuss the major ones below:
Epoxy grout is too hard to apply than the normal cement-based grout. Also, you have to invest a lot of time in the epoxy application as it takes longer to spread and hence is to be applied in batches.
Epoxy can discolour certain materials like the natural stone texture, therefore before application, the surfaces have to be sealed properly to avoid discolouration.
Post-application epoxy gives a plastic-like look which is not liked by many homeowners. Any residue left on the tile gives it a sheen finish which hampers the overall appeal of the surface. It highlights the imperfections in your tiling and destroys its curb appeal.
Epoxy comes with a hefty price tag compared to traditional grout. You have to invest roughly five times more than you would if you opt for a cement-based one. It is considered a larger investment which not many people can afford.
Now that you know epoxy grout in detail, we believe it would be easier for you to decide which one will best suit your needs. Yes, for epoxy you would have to shed a lot from your pocket but considering its reliability and durability, and no maintenance charges, who would decline that?
Grout application isn’t as easy as it sounds. Identifying the right type of grout is based on factors like the size of your joint and the area where it is used. If the joint width is vast the grout has to be coarser and vice-versa.
If you are considering grout application as a DIY project then we would recommend you to take help from your friends as it requires teamwork, efficiency and precision.
We however believe hiring professional tilers for epoxy grout application is the best option to consider. With extensive knowledge and vast experience, they can finish the job with the ideal finish.
You don’t want to mess up your expensive tiles, right? So, hire professional tilers like us at First home services. We will advise you on the best suitable grout for your property after considering factors like budget, efficiency, and more to make the grout application and installation process feel like a breeze.
Get in touch with us at Call: 021-251-8638 email: info@firsthomeservices.co.nz
Source Grout, in simple terms, is a thick paste that has many applications. It is generally used to conjoin tiles to keep them in place. It is typically cement-based and...
