13 Nov 2024, Read Time : 9 Min

Tiling Made Easy: Comparing Epoxy and Cementitious Grout for Perfect Results

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. Choosing the right tile grout is fundamental to ensuring the surfaces deliver long-lasting performance, durableness, and stylishness.

Let’s compare epoxy grout and cementitious grout 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 solution for your project‘s specific needs. 

What is Epoxy Grout?

Epoxy grout 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 Roff Grout and Laticrete epoxy grout are commonly used in busy areas such as culinary areas, washrooms, and commercial spaces. This investment in high-quality grout ensures long-term performance and minimises maintenance in moisture-prone environments.

Let’s talk about epoxy tile grout in detail now.

Composition of Epoxy Tile Grout

As mentioned earlier, epoxy tile grout is produced from an amalgam of epoxy resin and a hardener that chemically binds together to form a strong, waterproof bond. The chemical composition of epoxy grout gives it superb water resistance, making it a first-class pick for diverse settings with excessive dampness. Additionally, this stain-resistant grout’s 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.

Applications of Epoxy Grout for Floor Tiles and More

Epoxy grout is highly suitable for demanding and wet areas such as cooking areas, toilets, balconies, and laundry rooms. It is often used as kitchen and bathroom grout due to its ability to prevent mould, mildew, and water damage. It also works well for countertop grout, 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.

What is Cementitious Grout?

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 grout types for homes and commercial applications. There are two primary variants of cement grout — sanded grout, which contains sand to provide additional strength and texture and unsanded grout, which is smooth and ideal for narrower grout joints. Cement grout is most appropriate for low-moisture areas, especially indoor areas with limited exposure to water, like flooring 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.

Composition and Types of Cement Grout

A mixture of cement, water, and sometimes sand, cement-based grout is used to fill gaps between tiles and provide firmness. The two main tile grout types are unsanded grout and sanded grout. Unsanded grout is perfect for smaller and narrower grout joints, as it is generally less than ⅛ 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.

Common Uses of Cementitious Grout

Cementitious grout is ideal for use in low-moisture areas, making it a remarkable choice for wall 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 grout 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. 

Also Read: Most common tile installation problems – Tips and Solutions

Comparing Epoxy Tile Grout and Cement Grout: Pros and Cons

When you compare epoxy tile grout and cement grout, 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. 

Advantages of Epoxy Grout

There are multiple benefits of epoxy grout, particularly in demanding environments. Here are some of the benefits that you may enjoy if you opt for it. 

• Longevity: It does not get affected by wear, shrinkage, or cracking, making it suitable for busy environments and commercial spaces. 
• Chemical Resistance: Epoxy grout can bear exposure to harsh chemicals, making it perfect for culinary areas or industrial settings. 
• Stain-Proof Grout: Another major benefit of epoxy grout is that it is highly unaffected by stains, allowing you to maintain clean surfaces for an extended period. 
• Water-Resistant Grout: Its non-porous nature prevents water penetration, protecting against mould, mildew, and water damage. 
• Durable Tile Grout: The durability of epoxy grout makes it perfect for installations that need to secure years of wear and dampness exposure.

Advantages of Cementitious Grout

Cementitious grout has a range of advantages that make it an attractive pick for many projects. Here is a list of cement grout advantages that you should know before making up your mind. 

• Low-Cost Grout: It is an affordable choice, ideal for those who are looking for a cost-effective grout option for larger projects. 
• Colour Options: It offers colour variety in grout, making it easier for everyone to find complementing grouts for various tile designs. 
• Tile Compatibility: It works well with a broader range of tiles, making it versatile for many applications, from flooring to wall tiles. 
• Residential Applications: Cement grout is perfect for homes, especially in dry areas. Also, it provides solid performance for DIY projects or smaller installations. 
• Ease of Application: It is easy to mix and apply, making it a good choice for both professional experts and DIYers. 

Drawbacks of Epoxy vs. Cementitious Grout

Both epoxy grout and cement grout have their separate disadvantages. One of the major drawbacks of epoxy grout is its high rate, which makes it harder for more people to opt for it, even though the added cost offers top-quality performance. With cost comparison, you can easily find that the epoxy grout price is higher than cement grout, which is affordable but prone to stains and damage over time. 

Besides that, epoxy grout can be difficult to install due to its installation difficulty, fast curing time, and need for precision. Additionally, it does not require grout sealing, but its initial application requires careful attention. However, cement grout requires grout sealing to maintain its appeal, especially in wet zones. Its durability is not as high as epoxy grout and can get affected by wearing, leading to lower longevity in busy or wet areas. 

Also Read: All About Tile Grouting – Sealing, Color, Cleaning & More| Orientbell

Maintenance: Epoxy Grout vs. Cementitious Grout

When it comes to grout maintenance, epoxy grout generally needs low upkeep and is easier to clean due to its non-porous nature. Epoxy grout cleaning typically includes simple wiping with a damp rug or mild cleaner, as it does not absorb stains or moisture. However, cementitious grout needs more care and attention. To prevent stains and discolouration, sealing cement grout is essential and should be done regularly. A proper cleaning routine with gentle cleaners is also essential to prevent wearing over time. Grout sealing helps to protect the surface and ensure longevity while neglecting grout’s sealing can lead to fading and mould growth. For both types, you can incorporate maintenance tips like prompt cleaning and stain prevention practices that are key to maintaining their appearance and durability.

Conclusion

In final thoughts, both epoxy grout and cement grout offer distinctive advantages, which make them suitable for diverse tiling projects and needs. Epoxy grout works well in wet zones and demanding environments with heavy wear, delivering outstanding longevity, water resistance, and stain protection. However, because of expensive rates and installation challenges, it is not suitable for all projects. Alternatively, cement grout is a cost-effective, versatile option, especially for indoor, low-maintenance environments. All in all, the best grout choice depends on your project’s specific needs — whether it needs long-term performance in busy settings or a budget-friendly option for residential and light-use applications. So, by understanding the pros and cons of each type and carefully evaluating your project’s needs, you can pick the grout solution that best suits your project. 

Also Read: Explore the Primary Decor Materials Used in Home Construction – Orientbell Tiles

FAQs

• Is epoxy grout suitable for floor tiles?

Yes, epoxy grout is suitable for floor tiles, especially in demanding or damp areas. Thanks to its high longevity, non-porous, and stain-proof nature, it offers remarkable performance and demands low upkeep. However, it needs careful installation. 

• What is the price of epoxy grout compared to cement grout?

Epoxy grout is costlier than cementitious grout. But its higher rate brings long-term benefits, which are much needed in larger projects, while you can use cement grout for smaller projects. 

• Are epoxy tile grout colours customisable?

Yes, epoxy tile grout comes in a variety of colours, though the colour choices for cement grout are way more. Several brands offer a range of shades to match diverse tile designs, and you can even find custom colours for specific project needs.

• Is epoxy grout better for bathroom floors?

Yes, epoxy grout is a better choice to use with bathroom floor tiles. Also, it lowers the risk of bacterial growth in toilets with low ventilation.

• Can cement grout be used in wet areas?

Cement grout can be used in damp environments, but it is not suitable for spaces with excessive dampness. You can use it for smaller projects but regularly seal the tiles and provide proper upkeep to extend the lifespan of the tiled surfaces.