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When it comes to grouting your home, choosing the right materials can make a world of difference. Although it may seem like a small decision, choosing the right grout is huge for the look and longevity of your tiles.
The battle between your best grout options comes down to epoxy grout vs cement grout. Both have their advantages, but for a flawless finish and lasting results, only one comes out on top.
What is cement grout?
Cement grouting is a classic that’s been around for hundreds of years. Made from a simple mix of cement, sand and water, cement grout fills the gaps between your tiles, holding them securely in place. It’s also affordable and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for DIY projects.
While this all sounds promising, cement grout comes with a catch. Over time, it can absorb moisture, stains, and even mold. In areas like kitchens or bathrooms, where spills, water, and humidity are common, cement grout can start to look grimy and wear out faster.
What is Epoxy Grout?
Now, let’s talk about epoxy grout. Epoxy grout is a modern solution that combines epoxy resins with a filler powder. The result is a super-durable, non-porous grout that is resistant to water, stains, and even chemicals. So, if you’re looking for a grout that lasts longer and requires less maintenance, epoxy grout is your game-changing solution.
At AlphaSealed, we offer premium epoxy grout products like Mapei Kerapoxy. This incredibly durable, high-performance epoxy grout is designed to provide superior strength and resistance against harsh conditions. This makes it perfect for both residential and commercial applications where durability is a must.
What’s the upside of cement grout?
Budget-friendly
Cement grout is more affordable than epoxy grout. This can make it an ideal choice for homeowners or contractors who are working with a budget.
Endless colour options
When it comes to customisation, cement grout offers a wide range of colours and finishes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a neutral colour, or you want to make a statement with contrasting colours, cement grout has the personalised touch you need.
DIY-friendly
Are you a beginner tackling your first DIY grouting project? Cement grout might be for you. It’s super forgiving, with a longer working time, so you don’t have to rush the installation. Having this extra time can allow you to make adjustments and reduce the chances of making mistakes while stressed about time constraints.
Widely available
One of the best things about cement grout is just how easy it is to find. You can find it at almost any hardware and tile store, so you won’t have to waste time searching for the right product.
What’s the downside of cement grout?
Porous and prone to stains
One of the biggest downsides to cement grout is that it’s porous, which means it can absorb water, dirt, and oils. Without proper sealing, this can cause stains and discolouration. This is a major concern in areas exposed to moisture, such as kitchen and bathrooms, where mold growth and water damage can quickly lead to costly damage.
High maintenance
Although initially cheap, cement grout does come with some ongoing costs. For instance, it needs to be sealed regularly to maintain its durability and appearance. Without that upkeep, it can start to look worn out.
Prone to cracking and chipping
Cement grout is far from the most durable product on the market. Over time, it can crack or chip. This can significantly affect your grout lines and damage surrounding tiles.
Colour fading
Unlike epoxy grout, which maintains consistent colour, cement grout is prone to fading due to exposure to sunlight, cleaning agents, and frequent moisture. This discoloration can make grout lines look aged and uneven
Top reasons epoxy grout outperforms cement grout
Tired of dealing with grout that stains, cracks, or fades? Epoxy grout has the answer, with a range of unmatched benefits to make sure your next project looks fabulous and stays intact:
Water resistance
One of the standout reasons homeowners love epoxy grout is its water resistance. Unlike cement grout, which can soak up moisture and eventually crack or discolor, epoxy grout keeps water out. This is especially important for areas that deal with a lot of moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms. With epoxy grout, no more worrying about water creeping into your grout lines.
Stain and mold resistance
We all know how easily cement grout can stain. This is especially true in high-traffic areas or where spills are common. Epoxy grout, on the other hand, resists stains and doesn’t absorb dirt. Plus, since it’s non-porous, it also fights off mold and mildew, making it ideal for homeowners who value keeping things clean and fresh.
Durability
One of epoxy grout’s best traits is its toughness. It’s highly resistant to cracking, shrinking, or fading. This makes it an excellent choice for areas that see a lot of action, like your floors or countertops. In contrast, cement grout tends to break down over time, requiring more maintenance and constant resealing.
Low-maintenance
Arguably your biggest win when going with epoxy grout is that it’s practically maintenance-free. Once it’s in, you don’t have to worry about resealing it every couple of years like you do with cement grout. That’s not all. It’s also much easier to clean – just a quick wipe down and it stays looking fresh.
What to watch out for with epoxy grout
Despite the many benefits of epoxy grout, no product is perfect, after all. Here are some things to keep in mind when using epoxy grout for your next project:
Higher initial cost
Epoxy grout is more expensive upfront than cement grout. This can deter some homeowners at first glance. However, this initial investment pays for itself through its exceptional performance and longevity.
Trickier to apply
It’s very important to know that epoxy grout sets quickly. This can make it difficult to work with if you’re doing it yourself. Achieving a flawless finish requires the right tools, timing, and expertise. That’s why it’s a smart idea to leave this one to the pros.
At Alpha Sealed, our experienced team specialises in epoxy grout application, ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish that enhances the beauty and durability of your tiled spaces.
Your flawless grout job starts right here with Alpha Sealed
Now that you’re an expert on epoxy grout vs cement grout, it’s time to kick-off your tile renovations.
Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or any other home space, epoxy grout offers durability, moisture resistance, and minimal maintenance that cement grout simply can’t match.
Set your project up for success with our premium epoxy grout, or let our experienced team bring your vision to life and transform your home with flawless results. We’re here to help, so contact us today.
