{"id":20575,"date":"2024-11-13T10:31:25","date_gmt":"2024-11-13T05:01:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.orientbell.com\/blog\/?p=20575"},"modified":"2024-11-20T15:52:46","modified_gmt":"2024-11-20T10:22:46","slug":"tiling-made-easy-epoxy-vs-cementitious-grout","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orientbell.com\/blog\/tiling-made-easy-epoxy-vs-cementitious-grout\/","title":{"rendered":"Tiling Made Easy: Comparing Epoxy and Cementitious Grout for Perfect Results"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"tile<\/p>\n

Grout plays a vital role in all tiling tasks, acting as the adhesive between tile layers, offering structural support, and intensifying the attractiveness of the tiled surfaces. Choosin<\/span>g the right <\/span>tile grout<\/b> is fundamental to ensuring the surfaces deliver long-lasting performance, durableness, and stylishness.<\/span><\/p>\n

Let\u2019s compare <\/span>epoxy grout<\/b> and <\/span>cementitious grout <\/b>based on key factors such as composition, application, cost, durability, and design flexibility. Epoxy grout offers supreme benefits, including resistance towards moisture, chemicals, and stains, making it an amazing choice for demanding environments. Cementitious grout is a more cost-effective option, offering a range of colour choices but requiring grout sealing and maintenance to protect against wear. By going through this blog, you will understand the differences between these two grout types to choose the best grouting<\/span> solution for your project\u2018s specific needs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What is Epoxy Grout?<\/b><\/h2>\n

\"Epoxy<\/p>\n

Epoxy grout<\/b> is a specialised type of grout that is made by mixing epoxy resin and a hardener for a firm, long-lasting bond. Unlike conventional cement grouts, epoxy tile grout provides matchless durability, low porosity, and stain resistance, making it ideal for areas with excessive dampness or regular wearing. Popular brands like <\/span>Roff Grout<\/b> and <\/span>Laticrete epoxy grout<\/b> are commonly used in busy areas such as culinary areas, washrooms, and commercial spaces. This investment<\/span> in high-quality grout ensures long-term performance and minimises maintenance in moisture-prone environments.<\/span><\/p>\n

Let\u2019s talk about epoxy tile grout in detail now.<\/span><\/p>\n

Composition of Epoxy Tile Grout<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"epoxy<\/p>\n

As mentioned earlier, <\/span>epoxy tile grout<\/b> is produced from an amalgam of <\/span>epoxy<\/span> resin<\/span> and a hardener that chemically binds together to form a strong, waterproof bond. The <\/span>chemical<\/span> composition<\/span> of epoxy grout gives it superb <\/span>water<\/span> resistance<\/span>, making it a first-class pick for diverse settings with excessive dampness. Additionally,<\/span> this stain-resistant grout\u2019s<\/span> properties ensure that spills and stains are less likely to get absorbed by the surface, maintaining a spotless and attractive finish. Its sturdy character makes it unaffected by cracking and discolouration, making certain that grout joints remain intact and visually alluring for many years to come.<\/span><\/p>\n

Applications of Epoxy Grout for Floor Tiles and More<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"Epoxy<\/p>\n

Epoxy grout<\/b> is highly suitable for demanding and wet areas such as cooking areas, toilets, balconies, and laundry rooms. It is of<\/span>ten used as <\/span>kitchen<\/span> and <\/span>bathroom<\/span> grout<\/span> due to its ability to prevent mould, mildew, and water damage. It also works well for<\/span> countertop<\/span> grout<\/span>, especially when you use granalt tiles for your countertop and where exposure to spills occurs and frequent cleaning is needed. The high durability and low-upkeep nature of epoxy grout make it ideal for domestic and commercial applications, particularly in areas where wearing is a major concern. This versatility makes it a go-to choice for long-lasting, firm tile installations.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is Cementitious Grout?<\/b><\/h2>\n

\"Cementitious<\/p>\n

Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, this grout is primarily made to fill gaps between tiles. It is one of the most commonly used <\/span>grout<\/span> types<\/span> for homes and commercial applications. There are two primary variants of cement grout \u2014 <\/span>sanded<\/span> grout<\/span>, which contains sand to provide additional strength and texture and <\/span>unsanded<\/span> grout<\/span>, which is smooth and ideal for narrower grout joints. <\/span>Cement grout <\/b>is most appropriate for<\/span> low-moisture areas<\/span>, especially indoor areas with limited exposure to water, like <\/span>flooring<\/span> and walls in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. While it may not be as durable or moisture-resistant as epoxy grout, it remains a preferred choice for areas that do not experience heavy footfall or constant moisture exposure. <\/span><\/p>\n

Composition and Types of Cement Grout<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"Composition<\/p>\n

A mixture of cement, water, and sometimes sand, cement-based grout<\/span> is used to fill gaps between tiles and provide firmness. The two main tile<\/span> grout<\/span> types are unsanded grout and sanded grout. Unsanded<\/span> grout is perfect for smaller and narrower grout joints, as it is generally less than \u215b inch. Thanks to its smooth texture, the unsanded grout is easier to apply and finish without scratching delicate surfaces like polished tiles. On the contrary, sanded grout is designed for wider joints, as the sand particles provide extra hardiness and limit shrinkage. Regardless of which one you use, these grout options are affordable, easy to work with, and widely used for indoor applications where moisture levels and traffic are moderate. <\/span><\/p>\n

Common Uses of Cementitious Grout<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"Cementitious<\/p>\n

Cementitious grout is ideal for use in low-moisture areas, making it a remarkable choice for wall<\/span> tiles as well as floor tiles when they are used for residential floorings in spaces, like living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways. Since it is not as resistant to moisture as other grouts, it is not recommended for high-activity zones, be it your balcony or kitchen. However, it is well-suited for decorative<\/span> grout<\/span> applications, where visual appeals and joints are preferred over durability in wet conditions. This type of grout is a liked choice for grout joints in indoor flooring and wall tiling projects that do not require high-class performance or have exposure to extreme moisture or foot traffic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Also Read: <\/span>Most common tile installation problems – Tips and Solutions<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Comparing Epoxy Tile Grout and Cement Grout: Pros and Cons<\/b><\/h2>\n

\"Epoxy<\/p>\n

When you compare <\/span>epoxy tile grout<\/b> and <\/span>cement grout<\/b>, you must look at their key differences, which lie in their performances, costs, and ease of application. Epoxy grout offers better durability and resistance to water and chemicals, making it preferable for busy or moisture-prone environments, including balconies and washrooms. However, it comes at a higher rate and can be more difficult to install due to its fast curing time and the need for professional skills for precise mixing. Cement grout is more affordable and easier to work with, making it a widely used option. It comes in a variety of colour choices, which makes it well-suitable for residential applications. But it is less durable and can stain more easily, requiring more upkeep.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Advantages of Epoxy Grout<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"Industrial<\/p>\n

There are multiple<\/span> benefits of epoxy<\/span> grout, particularly in demanding environments. Here are some of the benefits that you may enjoy if you opt for it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n