Flexible-Epoxy grout works primarily through its unique composition, which provides enhanced properties like waterproofing, strength, and resistance compared to traditional cement-based grouts.
Specifically, Flexible-Epoxy grout is made from two different resins mixed with a filler. This two-part resin system undergoes a chemical reaction when mixed, forming a durable, non-porous material that fills the gaps between tiles. Unlike rigid cementitious grouts which can crack with substrate movement or moisture exposure, the resin-based composition offers a degree of resilience and elasticity, contributing to its "flexible" nature and durability.
Composition and Benefits
The combination of resins and filler in Flexible-Epoxy grout creates a material with several key advantages:
- Composition: It starts as two separate components (resins) that are mixed together with a filler just before application.
- Curing Process: Once mixed, a chemical reaction occurs, causing the mixture to cure into a solid, tough material.
- Key Benefits Derived from Composition:
- Waterproof: The cured resin forms a non-porous barrier, making it inherently waterproof and preventing water from seeping through the grout lines.
- Greater Bond Strength: The resin provides superior adhesion to tiles and substrates, creating a stronger, more durable bond.
- Chemical Resistance: The resin structure resists degradation from chemicals, making it better suited to harsher cleaning products than cementitious grouts.
- Durability: The tough, cured resin is highly resistant to stains, cracking, and abrasion, ensuring a long-lasting finish.
| Feature | Flexible-Epoxy Grout | Cementitious Grout |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Material | Resins + Filler | Cement + Water (+ additives) |
| Water Permeability | Waterproof | Porous (requires sealing) |
| Bond Strength | Greater | Standard |
| Chemical Resist. | High | Low |
| Stain Resist. | High | Low |
| Flexibility | More resilient/less rigid | Rigid, prone to cracking |
In essence, the work of Flexible-Epoxy grout is achieved through the robust properties imparted by its two different resins mixed with a filler, resulting in a grout that is waterproof and offers greater bond strength and chemical resistance than cementitious grouts. This composition allows it to withstand challenging conditions and maintain integrity where traditional grouts might fail.
