Epoxy grout - is it worth the hype?

Epoxy grout is more and more popular in private bathrooms.  It has been a nightmare to a builders and sometimes a saviour for home owners.



BS EN 13888 - classification of grouts categorises grouts as CG or RG

CG 1
standard grout

CG 2W
grout with improved performance and reduced water absorption

CG 2A
grout with improved performance and improved resistance to abrasion

CG 2WA
grout with improved performance, resistance to abrasion and reduced water absorption

RG
resin-based products, e.g. epoxy grouts


If choosing the cement-based grout CG 2WA is highly recommended.
Short characteristic:
• for any size of ceramic, stone and glass tiles
• resistant to discolouration and efflorescence, bacteria and mould due to ions of silver
• smooth, highly flexible, resistant to dirt and damage
• particularly recommended on difficult substrates: e.g. terraces, balconies and floor heating systems
• high resistance to washing, scrubbing and abrasion as well as cleaning agents, which makes the grout maintenance easy during whole period of use


Epoxy grouts
The main characteristics:
• for any type of tiles
• quick application and profiling, extra smooth surface
• extraordinary mechanical durability – the grout is resistant to abrasion, scratching, cracking
• high resistance to chemical factors (including acids, fats, aggressive and colouring factors such as alcohol (wine, spirit), juice, sauces, fats, jam, strong cleaning agents
• high chemical resistance and reduced suction
• for residential, commercial, public access, industrial buildings, particularly for intensively used areas


The main advantage of epoxy grout - it won't absorb a thing. No matter kitchen or bathroom, oil or water. Its much easier to clean ant won't stain - even white will look good after few years of intensive use. In creates a strong bond but its much less elastic - it's not recommended in inner corners or on unstable surface such as wooden materials. If used on elastic surface micro cracks may occur and, if liquid gum or other form of insulation wasn't used, may cause water leakage beneath tiles and create a perfect environment for bacteria and fungus. For the very same reason using epoxy grout is not recommended on balconies and terraces

Comparing to cement-based it's much harder to apply as it's very thick and sets quickly. It should be removed from tiles within first 5-10 minutes as that's the time of initial bonding. If it'll set on tiles there's no possibility of removing other that mechanical which will almost definitely damage tiles.
Full mechanical and chemical resistance after 7 days and using a room before is not recommended.

Full comparison of Atlas grouts (PDF)

Grouting:

1. Make sure adhesive is completely dry. Space between tiles should be clean.
2. Mix the grout, follow precisely instructions given by manufacturer. Remember - concrete based product are mixable with water, epoxy grouts are two component and shouldn't be mixed with water!
3. Apply with rubber trowel, press the product firmly between tiles. Take off the excess using the same trowel. You've got approx. 20 - 40min to spread the grout before it will start setting.
4. Clean grout from tiles with damp sponge or sponge on trowel (with epoxy grout - make sure there's nothing left as this grout sets quickly (up to 20min) and is impossible to remove when dry, cold water is recommended)
5. Final cleaning - rinse sponge in water after every move to make sure there's no residue.

Allow 24h for setting traditional concrete grout and at least few days before using epoxy (7 is recommended for full mechanical and chemical resistance).

For filling external and internal corners silicone is recommended as grouts are not elastic enough and may crack.

Al tools should be cleaned immediately with water. Later cleaning possible with SZOP, in case of epoxy grout - only mechanical cleaning.

Mentioned:
CG 2WA Atlas Grout
RG Atlas Epoxy Grout
SZOP




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