Epoxy Grout VS Cement Grout

Epoxy Grout vs. Cement Grout: Which is Better for Shower Tiles?

When it comes to bathroom renovations, choosing the suitable grout is one crucial decision that can make or break your tiling project. It can be just as important as your tile choice!

What To Use: Epoxy Grout vs. Cement Grout

Until recently, homeowners only had cement based grout to choose from.
In recent years, epoxy grout is being used by more and more tilers.
At Leaking Showers Sealed, it is what we use for all of our regrouting as it is a superior product and our clients love the benefits.
But lets see the pros and cons of both grout types.

Durability and Resistance

When it comes to durability, epoxy grout takes the cake.
Epoxy grout is highly resistant to stains, moisture, and even mould. There is no need to scrub at the grout and using vinegar and water is enough to keep the shower recess clean and clear.
So, if you’ve got a family bathroom with a lot of action, epoxy grout will require a lot less maintenance and will stay looking great for longer!

Cement grout is still durable and can withstand normal wear and tear but due to it’s porous nature. It absorbs stains and is easy for mould to gain a foot hold.
The shower is wear the strongest chemicals in the house are typically used.
Grout is scrubbed with bristles and coated with bleach. This creates cement grout to breakdown further and get more stains and chips and wear and tear.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

Epoxy grout does require a skilled hand to mix and apply but the preparation required is minimal and the clean up is minimal. Ever dealt with the new grout haze that is left on your tiles and you have to clean it off the next day? This does not happen with expoxy grout. It dries quickly and the clean up in minimal and when we regrout, we leave the tiles in pristine condition. The shower will be ready to use the next day.

Cement grout, is forgiving when applying it and most people have done some grouting at some stage. But the clean up is a lot more work. Cement grout is wiped off the tiles after they are laid or regrouted and the tiles are left with a grout haze ( Cement dust) that needs to be cleaned up and it is usually the homeowner who has to do this the next day.
Maintenance-wise, it requires a bit more elbow grease to keep it sparkling.

Aesthetics and Style

Epoxy grout is available in various colours, so you can choose almost any colour!
You want black grout? Yep, you can have a deep black grout that will not fade.
You love the idea of a pristine white tile and grout, expoxy grout will stay white as it is stain resistant.
If you love the idea of using gold or silver as a grout colour – epoxy grout can do that too!
Yes it comes in metallic colours and you can even have a glitter look!
Epoxy grout can be the finishing touch in a bathroom makeover.
See some of the colours available in the Epoxy Grout we use.
We can add metallic and glitter powders to customise your grout colour too!

Cement grout, on the other hand, is more of a classic choice. Cement grout comes in neutral shades, like the reliable beige and grey, which can complement a variety of tile choices.
Overtime the grout colour will change as it gets stained and it can often have Efflorescence

Efflorescence occurs when water soluble salts travel to the top of the grout surface. Ever wondered why you have patches of white on your grout that cannot be shifted – This is what it is.

And the Winner Is…

Before we declare an outright winner, let’s summarise what we’ve learned. Epoxy grout leads when it comes to durability and resistance.
Cement grout is the reliable and it is durable but it will stain, chip and crumble.

In terms of installation and maintenance, epoxy grout requires skill to apply it but the clean up is minimal and it dries fast.
Meanwhile, cement grout is easier to apply, but it is messy and there is a lot to clean up.

Regarding aesthetics, epoxy grout wins with it’s versatility and ability to adapt to any style. Cement grout, on the other hand, has a timeless and classic appearance that will always be accepted.

So, which on e is better? Well, it depends on your priorities. Epoxy grout is your go-to if you’re after durability and resistance.
But if you value a classic aesthetic, cement grout will be fine.

Are you tired of dealing with a leaking shower? 

At Leaking Showers Sealed, we specialise in epoxy grouting, regrouting, grout restoration, and sealing services.
Our team of experts is equipped with the skills and knowledge to tackle any shower repair or renovation project.
Say goodbye to water leaks and hello to a beautifully sealed shower that stands the test of time. Don’t wait another day – contact us now for a free consultation, and let us get your shower and bathroom looking like new again.