If you’re considering a remodel of your shower, then you’ve probably heard of epoxy grout. Epoxy grout is a popular alternative to traditional tile grout because it lasts longer and looks better.
But how can you be sure that this product is right for you? In this article, I’ll tell you exactly what epoxy grout is, why it’s beneficial for your shower project and when not to use it.
What is Epoxy Grout?
Epoxy grout is a type of grout that is used to fill the gaps between tiles in a shower. It is commonly used because it creates an airtight joint between two surfaces, which helps prevent water leakage and mold growth.
Epoxy grouts are made up of two separate components: epoxy resin and hardener. When mixed together at a specific ratio, these two chemicals create an adhesive that can be applied directly to tile surfaces or troweled into grooves created by other types of tile adhesives like mortar or thin-set mortar.
For best results when using epoxy grout, choose one that has been specifically formulated for use in showers because this type of material typically has high water resistance properties that will help prevent damage from steamy bathrooms over time.
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Benefits of epoxy grout in the shower
Epoxy grout is easy to clean. Epoxy grout is stain resistant, meaning it can resist the build-up of soap scum and hard water stains over time.
The surface of epoxy grout also makes it more resistant to mold and mildew than other grouts. That’s because epoxy grout doesn’t absorb moisture as standard tile sealers do!
Because this type of material is made with resin-based resins that cure when exposed to air or water, it’s not only easy on your eyes but also provides added protection against water damage in high-traffic areas like showers or around tubs.
You might think epoxy would be less resistant than other styles but that simply isn’t true! Epoxies hold up very well under pressure because they’re explicitly engineered for strength purposes—they’re actually known for being some of the strongest adhesives out there today so rest assured knowing your investment will last long after installation day has passed.”
When to use epoxy grout in the shower
Epoxy grout is great for waterproofing your shower, making it easier to clean, and creating a feature in the bathroom.
- If you’re looking to waterproof a shower that’s already been tiled but isn’t leaking yet, epoxy grout will do the job. It can also be used on brand new showers as well as those that have been partially tiled.
- If you want your shower to look more modern and sleek than traditional tiles, epoxy grout is a good option because it will give off an almost polished appearance when applied correctly.
- Epoxy is also an excellent choice if you need something that’s easy to clean—especially if you have children or pets who are prone to spilling things in their bathtubs!
When not to use epoxy grout in the shower
While epoxy grout is a great choice for most showers, there are some situations where you might want to consider another type of grout.
- If your shower has very tight spaces and curves, you may find that the epoxy is more difficult to work with. Epoxy can be harder to cut into small pieces and it will not hold a sharp curve as well as other types of grout.
- If your shower surround is not made out of tiles, such as concrete or glass block, then you should use regular thin-set mortar instead of epoxy because those surfaces cannot support an adhered product as tile flooring can. This means that any stable thin-set product will adhere better than epoxy on any non-porous surface like these types of materials.
- If your shower space is large compared to the other rooms in your house (for example if it’s bigger than 10 feet square), then using an adhesive-type grout isn’t going to give you enough coverage for sealing all those seams between tiles at once without running out before finishing one side completely
How to install epoxy grout
- Clean the surface
Before you can apply epoxy grout, you will need to clean your shower. You don’t want any dirt or oils on the surface of your tiles because they could get trapped in the grout and make it look dirty.
To clean them, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap (letting the soap dissolve in the water before applying) followed by an abrasive cleaner like baking soda or vinegar.
Do this until all traces of dirt are gone from each tile and its edges are sharp.
Use one part epoxy powder to three parts tepid water in a bowl large enough for mixing to create a thick paste that has about the consistency of pancake batter (you’ll want it scoopable with a spoon but not runny).
If you’re using pre-mixed epoxy, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much liquid to add per two pounds of powder; if making your own mix from scratch, start out by adding just enough liquid so that everything sticks together when stirred with a wooden spoon until smooth; then add more as needed until it reaches desired consistency (you can always add more later if needed).
Best epoxy grout products for showers
TileLab Epoxy Grout
This is one of the more expensive options on our list, but it’s also one of the best. TileLab Epoxy Grout is a two-component epoxy that comes in either black or white.
Like most epoxies, it can only be used indoors; however, its high abrasion resistance and watertight properties make it ideal for use in shower applications.
Grout Shield
This brand boasts that its product is “so easy to use” and provides “professional results at DIY prices.” It comes with everything you need to start grouting your tile job: a mixing container, applicator gun with a nozzle attachment, and cleaning brush.
You will have to purchase additional supplies if you want to add color pigments or texture additives.
Like other epoxies on this list (and unlike some other products), this one does not require any special tools like sealant guns—you simply mix it up with water until all components are thoroughly combined before applying it directly onto your grout lines with an applicator gun with nozzle attachment.
Consider using epoxy grout if your project meets a few criteria.
If you have a large shower or tub, it’s worth considering epoxy grout. The smooth finish of epoxy grout makes it easier to clean and maintain since water is less likely to stick in the grooves and crevices of the grout itself.
This means that if you’re doing DIY projects yourself (or hiring someone who isn’t very experienced), you may be able to save yourself some money by using epoxy grout.
Epoxy is also more waterproof than other types of grouts; this can be good for areas where there might be water damage from things like ice dams or leaks in pipes or windowsills.
If your home has an older section that’s prone to leakage issues with standard mortar-and-finish work, then having an epoxy coating built into each tile would help prevent future problems from occurring again down the road.
Conclusion
You’ll need to consider the cost of your project, but it’s something worth considering if you want a high-end look that won’t fade over time.
For more information on epoxy grout products and installations, contact us here at TileLab today! We have years of experience in our field and can help guide you through this process.
