- Materials and types of grout - special features of application
- Grout for joints - advantages and disadvantages
- Sealing process for seams
- Choosing color for grouting
- How to make the right choice?
Grouting is one of the most important elements when installing tiles in a bathroom. The composition of this material includes many important binding elements that can protect the tile from the appearance of various types of fungus and mold. It also strengthens the structure of the tile for a long time. Choose which grout for tiles in the bathroom is better, you can, relying on the types and benefits of the material. We will deal with this issue in this article.
to content ↑Materials and types of grouts - special features of application
Trowels are divided into three groups, each of them is popular among consumers and has a lot of advantages and disadvantages.
Cement
Cement - is made of portland cement and various impurities to improve the quality of fixation. This type of material is used to treat shallow seams. If the seams are more than 5 mm deep, sand is added to the composition. But to work with such a mixture must be very carefully, so as not to scratch the tile.
For ease of use and affordability, this mixture will be the most appropriate option if you need to decide which grout for the tile is better.
Important! To increase the elasticity of the material, a plasticizer is added. It increases moisture resistance and allows bacteria to penetrate the tile.
Epoxy resin
Epoxy - it contains epoxy resin and pigments that give firmness to the material. This mixture for mashing can be purchased at specialty stores. The composition of different shades is produced, so you can choose any one you like. If you are looking for what kind of grout for tiles in the bathroom is better in terms of durability and strength, then this option is beyond any competition.
The main feature of this material is a strong viscosity, because of which it is very difficult to remove excess. To remove residual epoxy mixture, chemical agents must be used. The epoxy mixture is applied with a special bag.
Important! Such formulations require knowledge of the specification of mixing and the use of solutions with epoxy components, as well as mandatory compliance with safety conditions, since before the setting of the grout the mixture is a very toxic combination.
Silicone
Silicone grout - is a transparent elastic material, which is most often used with a small amount of work. Sold in special tubes or cartridges. It has several advantages and disadvantages:
- The pluses are simple to use.
- To cons - a short service life.
Grouting for Seams - Advantages and Disadvantages of
Since silicone is still used to seal plumbing joints - between the bathroom and the wall, between the floor and the pipes and for other similar purposes, we will dwell in more detail on the pros and cons of those solutions, which are used more often just for grouting joints on tiles.
Pros of cement grouting:
- Very light and easy to use.
- Suitable for mashing joints not only tiles, but also floors.
- A wide range of different shades.
- Strength.
- Affordable price.
Cons:
- The joints can be repeatedly contaminated.
- Do not use aggressive chemicals for cleaning.
Important! Cement trowelling mixtures are available in powder form. Therefore, it is easier to buy a large bag, pour out the right amount, and put the unnecessary in the back box. The main thing is to store in a dry place, since cement mixtures are very afraid of moisture.
Advantages of epoxy grouting:
- High level of strength.
- Not exposed to the appearance of various types of mold and bacteria.
- Water resistance.
- Resistance to strong chemical preparations.
Disadvantages:
- A sophisticated technique for performing work.
- Quite high cost.
Important! Epoxy mixture is very popular among professionals involved in trowelling for many years. In the epoxy mixture you can add sequins that will only decorate the interior of the bathroom. The use of such material guarantees a neat and beautiful result.
Thoroughly weighing all the pros and cons, it will be much easier for you to choose the best grout for tiles in the bathroom.
to content ↑Sealing process of
joints In order to fill the seams properly, it is necessary to follow the following instructions:
- Prepare the surface to be treated - remove dirt( dust) and remove the excess of tile adhesive. Also check to see if the tile holds tightly.
- We prepare the trowelling compound. Cement mix with water, in prescribed proportions. If necessary, add sand. Epoxy - mix "epoxy" with latex and water to a uniform consistency.
- Fill seams - we place the composition in a special bag and distribute it evenly along the seam.
- Completion - carefully remove surplus substances with the help of special cleaning agents.
Choosing the color of the grout
In order to choose the appropriate color for the grout, in harmony with all interior components, tiles, several rules should be observed:
- If the tile chosen by you is of a non-uniform color,to the lightest shade on the tile. This is only if the room is small.
Important! Using this method of choice, you visually increase the room.
- Conversely, if the room is very large and you want to reduce it, then buy the product in a tone to the darkest section of the tile.
- If you have a tiled mosaic in your bathroom, then choose a paste of pastel colors( gray, light beige).
- With monochrome tiles, you can experiment by choosing a means to fill the seams for a shade lighter or darker than the tile itself, you can even apply bright contrast colors.
Important! To fill the seams of floor tiles, it is better to choose a tool of dark color, since light seams very quickly become dirty, require very careful regular maintenance.
to the contents ↑How to make the right choice?
On the shelves of building stores you can find products of foreign and domestic manufacturers. In order to simplify the choice of a suitable product, consumers have compiled a rating of the best tile for bathroom tiles:
- The mashing agent "Atlas" is distinguished by its high strength.
- "Ceresit" - grout is very convenient to use, detailed instructions for use are attached.
- "Sopro" - is of high quality in accordance with an acceptable price.
- "Kamrok" is an inexpensive, high-quality construction product.
- "Mapei" - can be used to fill joints not only in the bathroom, but also in the pools.
- "Litokol" - is distinguished by its reliability and durability.
Important! When buying cheap mixtures it is recommended to add antifungal drugs, compositions that increase moisture resistance.
Among these manufacturers is very difficult to choose a decent, and very easy to get confused in the choice. However, the products should be selected, based on the popularity and relevance of the goods of a particular manufacturer. At purchase it is possible to address for the help to skilled experts who will consult and will advise the good goods.