One of the biggest apprehensions people have about grout is maintenance–but what if we told you there’s a grout that’s resistant to stains and water and holds up to harsh cleaners? Meet epoxy grout, which just may be the solution that you’ve been looking for.
Today we’re outlining basic information about epoxy grout, covering which of our products you can use it with, and reviewing its pros and cons.
Epoxy Grout Basics
Epoxy grout is a fast-setting grout that has two parts, the base and the activator; when these parts are combined, a chemical reaction begins which means you have limited time to finish grouting before it sets and becomes too hard to work with. Because of the time crunch, we recommend hiring a professional tile installer when working with epoxy grout (have your installer closely follow the directions of the brand you've chosen since epoxy grout instructions vary).
You'll also need to use grout release when using epoxy grout to protect your tile. Grout release is a removable, water-soluble surface coating that protects tile from staining and makes grout cleanup a little easier.
Tile: Picket Glacier Bay in the process of being grouted.
The Benefits of Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grouts are the most durable of all grout choices because they are resistant to stains, mildew growth, and water damage, and they hold up against harsh cleaners. It’s an excellent choice where moisture and food will be present, such as in bathroom installations and kitchen backsplashes. It also doesn’t require a sealer!
Opting for white grout? Epoxy grout stands out as the best selection since a sanded or non-sanded grout shows more dirt and wear and tear.
Tile: 2x8 Feldspar | Design: Sarah Sherman Samuel | Image: Nicole Franzen
Epoxy Grout Considerations
While epoxy grout is the champion for durability, it’s not necessarily recommended for a DIY installation; a seasoned professional tile installer is your best bet since it sets very quickly, giving you less wiggle room to work with your material should you need to adjust things. It also can yellow a bit as it ages.
Epoxy grout comes with a higher price tag, but because it doesn’t need sealer and is stain-resistant it can save you time and money in the long run. Finally, be aware the epoxy grout can leave a haze or residue on tile surfaces if not cleaned properly so make sure that your installer follows cleaning instructions before and after grouting to avoid this.
Which Fireclay Products Can Be Used With Epoxy Grout?
Our Ceramic, Brick, and Handpainted Tile can all be used with epoxy grout, so you can walk into your project with stain-resistant confidence no matter how many grout lines there are! This kind of grout is Fireclay-approved from the very top: our founder, Paul Burns, wanted a white-on-white look for both of his bathroom floors and chose epoxy grout with our handmade Star & Cross Tile.
If you’ve fallen for our USA-made Glass Tile, don’t fret. Epoxy grout can certainly be compatible with our Glass–just make sure that the epoxy grout manufacturer recommends its use with glass tile, and do a small test before using.
Tile: 2x12 Rosy Finch Gloss | Design + Image: Laura Gummerman
More Grout Questions?
Grout can make or break an installation, so if you’re still unsure about which grout to choose our tile experts are here to help with free design assistance. Fill out the simple form below and we’ll be in touch shortly.
