As mentioned earlier, Prism and Polyblend are made by the same company. If someone could please recommend the materials needed (brand type etc) without digressing too much into the subject:) would be greatly appreciated background : I am installing Natural Timber Ash Wood Look Porcelain Granite Floor and Wall Tile to my in-law Kitchen. There is one active Thread on the subject now which is about all we have for the moment. Custom Brand grout review for Fusion Pro vs Polyblend. Its also safe for consumers and pets. Polyblend grout offers moderate stain resistance. Visit our updated. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. For joints smaller than 1/8-inch, use non-sanded grout. Here's how to get it right the first time, Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists. With fade-resistant pigments and sealant properties, you can seal the grouts while coloring. We have full 1/16" joints (done with spacers) between the rows, but within the rows are using the built-in 1/32" lugs on our tiles--so nominally that's a 1/16" joint there too, but really it is less where the lugs meet, so may be tough to get grout into. Polyblend Plus has all of the great features of original Polyblend, plus some new value-added enhancements to improve performance, finished color, and color consistency. With its nonflammable ready-to-use formula, it will last 3 to 5 years. http://www.johnbridge.com/vbulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=16, Grout is grout, right? Polyblend-Nonsand PC1110S-6 10.5 Oz Snow White Ceramic Tile Caulk. You might want to head over to the JohnBridge Tile Forum. There are pool jacuzzis constructed every day without an ounce of caulk. First, by using the Kerdi, you're shower is going to dry out much quicker than most, being that the water has nowhere to penetrate past the thinset. Actually, I would and do use Prism grout from HD. Polyblend grout is available in more color options. It absolutely needs two people working one behind the other to wipe up the haze after the grout goes in. Polyblend has been around for a while now, as compared to its counterpart. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Therefore, if you are interested in wrapping up your tile installation job in the shortest time possible, Prism grout should be your safest bet. This helps the grout go into the lines without pulling it back out or digging into it. And while it is true that like any new product this product has no long-term track record, I think it is unfair to compare it to the TrafficMaster caulk-in-a-bucket "grout". PolyBlend Grout Renew is another all-in-one grout stain and sealer. Polyblend grout has been around for over 20 years and has been used in many installations since then. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. This also makes it very difficult to ensure an even drying and curing time for the installed grout, which can result in shade variations for darker colors. nature based homeschool curriculum australia; how much is membership at the pinery country club current price $60.84. Good luck. And remember that epoxy is essentially super-strong glue, so youre pretty much screwed if you miss the window for fully wiping it off a tile surface before it sets. Your email address will not be published. My posts are simply to provoke thought not argue, well maybe a little. If I should switch is there a color match for Polyblend "Light Smoke" in the epoxy? 5 Reasons to Update Your Business Operations, Get the Best Sleep Ever in 5 Simple Steps, How to Pack for Your Next Trip Somewhere Cold, Manage Your Money More Efficiently in 5 Steps, Ranking the 5 Most Spectacular NFL Stadiums in 2023. Thanks, but this is what I saw that made me ask the question. Cement grouts such as Portland cement are easily inhaled, and the fine silica particles found in the grout can cause breathing issues. We already know that UltraCare Grout Refresh is available in a full palette of grout colors offered by Mapei. Thread Starter. polyblend vs polyblend plus. . Hemway glitter grout additive is 100% non-toxic and completely safe to use. And, it is a waterborne epoxy stain and sealer for renewing or changing the color of cement grout joints. While you may find a grout for any aesthetic preference, we looked for grouts that had simple, elegant designs - ones that would appeal to most people - rather than models that adhered to specific aesthetic choices. Today, we will focus on two of the most popular options; Polyblend and Prism Grout. However, from most peoples experiences, you are better offsealingPrism and Polyblend grouts. Ask how they are going to finish corners and edges. 2022 TCNA Handbook for Ceramic, Glass, and Stone Tile Installation. I would like a Snow White finished looking grout -* do have polyblend for grout after installation to give the grout that Snow White which looks good against this grayish white modern color Photo show the entire backsplash. this website. In summary, sanded is a great choice for tile floors, shower walls, backsplashes for kitchens used by serious (or just kinda messy) cooks, or other high-use or frequently cleaned tile surfaces. And as a bonus it wont scratch even polished glass or painted clay tile, and wont haze or spot even on porous natural stone tile pics for proof! Prism is available inlimited color options. Visit our privacy This is because epoxy grout is almost waterproof and therefore is also nearly impossible to stain once fully cured. This will not so much cover smoke stains as it will replace them. help you have the best experience while on the site. Do you want added protection against potential efflorescence or color variation problems? The palette holds 42 colors, to be precise. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Also, from Custom Building Products,Prismis an excellent grouting material. It's been a huge headache so far but if it all gets fixed i think it will be worth it. For resale, stick with white. Mapei Flexcolor CQ is acrylic based, not cement based.Both are excellent choices. So, its too abrasive to be used with polished glass or delicate porcelain, clay, or painted tiles. or Epoxy? Plus, you dont need to seal the tile joints. This does not have silicone in it, it's straight tile grout in a squeezable tube. You might visit a local tile store such as, "The Tile Store" if there is one in your area then you can view sample grout bars to better see tones you might lean toward. There is a reason why Custom Building Products refers to Prism as an ultimate performance grout. Sanded vs. unsanded grout: When using cementitious grout, you'll face two options: sanded and unsanded. Ultracolor Plus FA bridges sanded vs unsanded. That is why tile manufacturers usually recommend the use of unsanded grout for glass mosaic tiles. After reading my grout refresh vs. grout renew review, now you know the best option between the two. Thanks! RAND OF MOTAR (spelling) and Grout needed. Forcing an experienced tile pro to use a premix is like not allowing a racing team to tune their own car. In fact, even a small amount of silica dust presents a health hazard. bottling facilities, dairies, etc.). Signup for our newsletter to get notified about our next ride. If youre working with an install pro who is a big fan of a particular premixed brand/type and who can clearly explain why the benefits would outweigh the added costs and guarantee good results, then sure go ahead. By closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to the use of cookies. However, Ive never met such a person. Contact Technical Services for recommendations. Out of these two options, Prism Grout is superior. Premature exposure to traffic is most likely to lead to product failure. It comes boxed or bagged as a powder ready to be mixed with water before use. Every premix brand and formulation that Ive used also slides right off the float. Can you explain what this special product is that you use to remove 100% silicone caulk without any residue? Here is a quick comparison table between Mapei grout refresh and Polyblend grout renew:AspectsMapei Grout RefreshPolyblend Grout RenewProduct TypeUniversal Grout Colorant And SealerEpoxy Modified Acrylic Latex ColorantSpecial FeatureSeal And Protect Against Common StainsFade-Resistant FormulaBenefitsOffers More BenefitsOffers Fewer BenefitsUsageInterior & ExteriorInterior & ExteriorPerformanceSuperior To Grout RenewInferior To Grout Refresh. But in reality, it takes quite a bit of practice and skill to get pro results. WHAT BRAND/TYPE GROUT IS NEEDED? Sanded VS Unsanded Due to its hardness and shape of the grains, the silica on the grout can scratch the surface of the glass or metal chips, damaging your mosaic tiles forever. So, its a great option for commercial kitchens, tile floors in schools or restaurants or bars, etc etc. It is instead made of epoxy resin mixed with color pigments (kinda like super thick colored glue). Be as it may, Polyblend also has its highlights, and you should not dismiss it. Polyblend is available in two options; sanded and non-sanded. However, epoxy grout is (in my opinion) not a good option for residential remodel projects. Need color advice on tile grout in kitchen. If your never going to sell your home then grout your tile with fluorescent pink grout for all I care - but I find that by changing the colour of the grout from the main colour of the tile brings attention to it - why would you want to do that? Using Mapei's tile grout calculator and some made up dimensions (100 sq ft, 10x10 -inch tile, -inch gap width) you find you need 5.24 lbs. What changes do you suggest to make Bathroom looks more updated? bag of Polyblend in ft (m) per bag, For 7 lb bag of Polyblend (sq ft/sq m per bag). This is available in white and it is fade resistant. Hopefully this has been a helpful guide for understanding some of the key practical differences between different grout types. Polyblend Grout Renew Grey Tile Grout Floor Grout Black Grout Tile Grout Colors Paint Tiles Tile Floor Grouting More information . The Manufacturer says: transform your bathroom and kitchen today with our glitter grout additives. Secondly, if you're still worried about mold and mildew, might I recommend switching from Custom's Polyblend grout, to either Laticrete's or Mapei's grouts. Have you thought about using the charcoal color? Probably the toughest of any kind of grout, stain-proof or otherwise. Also, Im not a fan of using bazookas to kill flies. Fusion Pro grout vs Polyblend grout 8,697 views Dec 11, 2017 31 Dislike Share Save Good Times 635 subscribers Fusion Pro is the worst grout I have ever used. In terms of color shading, the strong formula ensures the Prism grout retains its finish for the longest time. Polyblend Plus has brighter, enhanced color and is more efflorescence resistant than its predecessor without compromising the durability professionals expect from the proven Polyblend product. On top of that, Grout refresh will work better even in higher temperatures than Grout Renew. Youre paying extra for all that premix water that has to be shipped in the bucket. But if your shower wall or tub surround tile was installed on the cheap with the tile set directly on drywall, then this will definitely be a problem. If you have a shower or tub surround that has a proper waterproofing layer behind the tile, then this isnt a problem. Grout is porous and therefore absorbs liquids. Therefore, even if you dont find exactly what you are looking for, you can find something slightly resembling it. Besides, you can easily change to other Renew colors on cement grouts. This makes unsanded grout easy to install on walls or even tiled ceilings since it doesnt slide off the float. PRISM is so new we don't have a large experience base yet to draw upon. Thanks Bill! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. It comes in buckets and has to be mixed with a chemical hardener right before use. Save time in searching for most relavant and trusted products. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. AboutPressCopyrightContact. But they are two different products. CustomTech from Custom Building Products -- the brand flooring contractors have trusted since 1964. Its just superfine portland cement with added pigments for color. It has a quicker curing time of fewer than five hours. But each of these manufacturers produce dozens of different formulations. For example, epoxy grouts have VERY short working times and also have a VERY unforgiving setting time window. You should be able to pick up the right one by now. Permanent grout haze problems usually arent an issue with unsanded grout. Is one or the other preferable for unsanded grout (and silicone caulk) in a shower? This post also describes what kind of grouts to use for fantastic results. Mapei says neither should be used for joints smaller than 1/16", unfortunately, so we're looking at either the Keracolor U or the Polyblend Non-Sanded. Thank you! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Tags Custom Building Products A sealant ensures both grouts last longer and resists wear. Sealants can make grout a bit more water resistant, but not waterproof. If youve hired a competent pro for your reno project, then presumably you trust their experience and skill. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Epoxy vs. Cement Grout What's the Difference? In contrast, Mapeis Ultracolor Plus FA has never given me a problem in any situation. June 12, 2022. city of oakland building permit . This is necessary to deep clean the mildew. By sealing your grout, you get to prolong your tile surfaces lifespan and minimize damage to a considerable extent. If the underlying waterproofing isnt done correctly then there is no tile or grout combination that will prevent eventual water damage. Brick curb and seat under the Kerdi. It will crack and fall out of gaps any larger than this. So, grout talk can get pretty confusing pretty quick. The polymer-modified, cement-based grout produces hard, dense joints that resist shrinking, cracking and wear. Sanded grout (especially darker colors) can be more prone to efflorescence (whitish scale that gives a blotchy look) or color shade variations. Do you need a super-duper stain resistant grout because you want the kitchen backsplash and tile floor to be nigh-impervious to bubbling marinara or red wine spills? Title: GroutAideColorsSellSheet_PFJune6_120b Created Date: 6/6/2012 11:36:03 AM Neither is tile, actually, but the grout joints between tiles are where most moisture wicks through in wet areas like shower floors or tub surround walls. TILE: Natural Timber Ash Wood Look Porcelain Granite Wall Tile SURFACE TYPE: Standard sheetrock wall MY QUESTION WHAT BRAND TYPE OF MOTAR SHOULD I USE? link to Moen Genta Vs. Genta LX Bathroom Faucets: Which One To Pick? As for the non-sanded, it can only be used on joints measuring 1/8. According to the manufacturer, Prism doesnt need to be sealed, but some users beg to differ. Location: USA. While you dont need to be an expert yourself if youre hiring a pro for your tile project, it certainly still helps to understand the basics. This is to grout shower walls that have subway tile with 1/16" grout lines (some a little shy of that) so we definitely want unsanded of some variety. This can be used on underfloor heating tile joints. I like to share my view on everything related to bathroom stuff. For 25 lb. For example PolyBlends Prism Performance Grout has most of the same features in theory, but in practice it has an annoyingly short working time before drying in the bucket. Prism grout offers better stain resistance than Polyblend. Essentially, my clients depend upon my expertise and "voice of reason" to enhance and add value to their home. Does Polyblend plus sanded grout need to be sealed? Get is 10x stronger than traditional pre-mixed grout stain-proof. Even though both grouts are made by the same manufacturer, they are very different. Make sure installer is involved with the tile chosen. One of the features I love most about Prism is that it does not effloresce no matter what is thrown at it. So, you must use Grout Refresh for your task. Add. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Coverage may vary based on installation practices and jobsite conditions. They never need to be sealed. Two thoughts on this, both of which imply that epoxy is overkill for your installation. This ensures that the grout is easy to prepare and apply. Cement grout is porous, which means water, grease and other things can soak into it and stain or damage the grout. It can withstand the toughest conditions, including extreme temperatures and humidity. I've used Pro Fusion and it's held up well. There is no magic fix that can make grout waterproof. Polyblend grout can be used on joints measuring up to 1/2. I intended to use Polyblend sanded grout on my 1/8 grout lines on granite tiles, but the Prism seems to be an interesting product that can work with 1/16 to 1/2 grout lines. Its just superfine portland cement with pigmented color and added silica sand for density and strength. Because of this, the reason you should not seal your tile grout is that the sealers liquid chemicals combine with the grout to create a surface that is actually much more difficult to clean. They should be able to answer with a clear explanation for why a particular grout is best for your job. It is a latex polymer-modified grout that contains cement and calcium. You can revitalize old grout joints using this colorant and sealant in various vertical and horizontal applications. You suggestions and opinions are always wecome. Formulated with fade-resistant pigments, Grout Renew seals the grout against stains while it colors. Near impossible to use and. UltraCare Grout Refresh comes as an 8 oz. some people have also stained/painted the grout a darker color. She's planning her own renovation and daydreaming about what to include. You would never have to seal the Tec Accuculor or the Spectralock either, and no mixing manufacturers. When showers were built as Beth describes it eliminates that movement in corners. One of the newcomers and featured product. Formulated for durability, Polyblend Plus Sanded Grout accommodates 1/8-1/2 (3.1-12.7 mm) joints for interior or exterior installations, including floors, countertops, walls, ceilings, showers, fountains, and pools. The main limitation for sanded grout come from the fact that it contains sand. It hardens fast. UltraCare Grout Refresh comes as an 8 oz. Join Date: Oct 2011. Moen makes top-class bathroom and kitchen faucets along with other products. Mapei UltraCare Grout Refresh is easy to use grout colorant and sealer. Tile and grout obviously blocks most of the water that sprays onto it. EPOXY GROUTS Epoxy grouts are formulated to work in harsh service applications (i.e. Grout Dilemma - use Sealer (Which one?) Over the last 7 years, I have been blogging about home improvement and yes, I own ReliefInBath.com Remember those guides are adapted to products being used ta that time. The adage you get what you pay for does not really apply to grout. But choosing a suitable colorant is essential. It requires 2 to 4 hours to touch dry and 14 hours to dry completely. Polyblend-Nonsand PC1110S-6 10.5 Oz Snow White Ceramic Tile Caulk. My questions are below. The claims that it doesnt need sealant are false. Not a fan of Custom. This clean now, is great for white tile and it goes on smoothly. Now $27.61. Copyright CUSTOM Building Products 2023 Dip your grout float into the Polyblend grout to load it up. People have to stop thinking installing tiles can be done by anyone. As for the tile well also explain how much more you charge for waste and uncharge for installing that glass mosaic vs a porcelain/ceramic or even stone? For example, I wont even consider a tile job if a residential reno customer is fixated on using epoxy for the finish. Due to Prisms better stain resistance capabilities, it is the ideal grout for outdoor use. Never add extra water if the grout starts to get hard. This durable, non-shrinking grout accommodates joints up to 1/8 (3 mm) and can be used for interior or exterior installations, including floors, countertops, walls, ceilings, showers, fountains and pools. Swipe the float across the tile joints on the diagonal while holding the float at a 45-degree angle. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. The good news about this grout is its fast setting, and the floor its being applied to can be walked on within four hours. This is easy to use and does what it is supposed to. What Grout Color Should You Choose for Your Tile? The manufacturer claims that it doesnt need sealant. and cookie policy to learn more about the cookies we use and how we use your Also, when unsealed grout gets wet, the water can evaporate and dry. Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA is my favorite all-purpose grout. Finally, the floor guys, polyblend epoxy grout is great for water based sealer, works as advertised and it does the job. Mapei says neither should be used for joints smaller than 1/16", unfortunately, so we're looking at either the Keracolor U or the Polyblend Non-Sanded. Can You Use AquaDefense Over Kerdi? This grout colorant is nonflammable. Used in conjunction with the Kerdi, it wouldn't be a thought at all, especially if you have a good vent fan. This website requires certain cookies to work and uses other cookies to Looking at performance, Grout Refresh can cover 50 square feet to 300 square feet per 237 ml bottle. $60.84. Information from the quick comparison table is not enough to make an informed decision. It bonds well to joints and wont come off easily. Available in sanded and non-sanded versions, Polyblend Plus accommodates joints up to 1/8" (3mm) and meets ANSI A118.7. Polyblend grout Renew also seals and protects against common stains along with fade resistance. Also, it can be used on joints measuring 1/2. When you are done, they are easy to clean up. In contrast to Grout Refresh, Polyblend Grout Renew completely changes or restores the color of cement grouts. Making it perfect for DIY jobs. Sanded grout is less likely to shrink and crack, making it ideal for wider gaps and floor tiles. It is an ANSI A118.6 polymer-modified, cement-based non-sanded grout designed for highly glazed or polished tile, marble and natural stone that would be scratched by sanded grouts. In addition, this is great with light grey and it is super easy. Ask em what grout they plan to use, and why. Chart for estimating purposes. The extra water weakens the grout. Unlike Portland cement, which will break down when exposed to acids and other strong chemicals, epoxy grouts hold up to a variety of commonly-encountered chemicals. I can't vouch for this method though. Prism can be used on bigger joints than the non-sanded variety of Polyblend. Nope. Here's a link to Custom's description of PRISM grout that might be of some help. Its really not necessary to use an industrial commercial product for your house. Unlike most grouts, Prism and Polyblend achieve a smooth consistency with ease. And finally, TRUST YOUR INSTALLER! They are sold at various stores like Home Depot, Wayfair, Walmart, eBay, and even Amazon. Available in sanded and non-sanded versions, Polyblend Plus accommodates joints up to 1/8 inch (3mm) and meets ANSI A118. Actually by using caulk you are sealing in any moisture that penetrates your grout and runs down your waterproofing and now has nowhere to go. Polyblend Plus has all of the great features of original Polyblend, plus some new value-added enhancements to improve performance, finished color, and color consistency. Ask exactly what products they are using including exact name brand. When applying it to the tiles, these grouts easily find their way into the tile joints. My theory is to use a caulking product that is easily repaired and applied. More information Polyblend grout colors More like this White Kitchen Backsplash Kitchen Tiles New Kitchen Kitchen Decor Backsplash Ideas Trendy Kitchen Backsplash Design Kitchen Wall Kitchen Black CustomTech offers real solutions to the challenges contractors face on the job every day, whether its a common issue like young concrete -- or the challenge of pumping leveler up 60 stories in high-rise construction. The Polyblend White Grout has killer features for the price point. And if you need extra stain protection for a backsplash or extra easy cleaning for a shower or kitchen floor, etc, then there are lots of good proven sealants and also many dry-mix options with sealant additives to match these and other needs. From the comparisons, its clear that Mapei UltraCare Grout Refresh is better than Polyblend Grout Renew. Any competent pro installer will have lots of experience using straight unsanded or sanded Mapei or PolyBlend mixes Theyll be able to control the consistency of the mix for a trouble-free install. Should you use EPOXY grout? Its not made from cement. Other highly modified dry-mix grouts that Ive tried have had at least one or more install challenges. Custom Building Products makes Polyblend grout and also Prism grout, which seems to be a new product. Premixed grouts also start drying out the moment you crack open the bucket. Polyblend Plus has brighter, enhanced color and is more efflorescence resistant than its predecessor without compromising the durability professionals expect from the proven Polyblend product. You need more details about that. I have corrugated metal shower surround & grab bars. Its a highly modified cement-based formula that uses extra-fine silica and polymer additives. This is easy to apply and clean off if it gets on tile. It is a durable option. There are only two major grout manufacturers Mapei and PolyBlend. Nevertheless, there are many other differences between these two sealers and colorants that you should know to pick up the right one. Resists shrinking, cracking, powdering and wear. Houzz Pro: One simple solution for contractors and design pros, I am remodeling my bathroom and it has been fully grouted with Spectralock epoxy grout in the color "mushroom". Agree with Verbo on Mapei. a no-mess alternative to traditional grout. It has a good 40min working time in the bucket whether mixed thin or thick, it holds on a float well so is great for wall or ceiling installs, and it has never resulted in a callback for color mottling or efflorescence. Member. Color wise for the grout. Engineered to exceed the most stringent requirements, CustomTech products deliver exceptional strength, durability and ease of use. Hi Erwinms, A good designer/decorator will always listen to what our clients want/love. Professional installers have lots of learned tricks and techniques to prevent all of these potential problems. I can however offer some general guidelines for residential bath and kitchen tile projects. Therefore it is prone to staining unless installed with a good sealant.