Why do we need trowel?
Operation of the lined surface without grouting, especially in conditions of high humidity and temperature changes, is completely undesirable. Not to mention the fact that the gaps between the tiles look unaesthetic, they get dirt and dust. Over time, such seams can become a refuge of mold, fungi and even small insects.
The moisture that gets there helps reduce the strength of the connection, and in time such a "weakened" tile can simply fall off. Therefore, the final stage of the work on the quality of laying the tile coating should be the seaming of joints, also called trowelling.
This operation is carried out using special trowelling compounds and mixtures. To know how to choose a grout for a tile, it is necessary to take into account the list of constituent components. This should be indicated on each package, but we will try to consider what to pay special attention to.
Varieties of trowelling compounds
Most formulations contain high-quality Portland cement, various varnishes, latexes, special impregnations. If you first get acquainted with what ingredients are included in the composition, you will be easier to figure out which grout for tiles is better.
In most cases, among the large number of grouts, two basic types can be defined. Some are arranged on the basis of traditional cements. The second type is characterized by the use of various epoxy resins as bases. Separately it is possible to name containing silicone components. Such formulations are rather sealants and are used in difficult and hard-to-reach places of lined surfaces.
We compare two classes of trowels for tiles
A feature of the preparation for the use of Portland cement compounds is simplicity. It is enough to dilute them with water( sometimes liquid latex is needed), and there are already ready-to-use formulations. Compositions containing sand should be applied with a joint width of at least three mm, this must be taken into account.
When deciding which grout to choose for a tile, always consult the manufacturer's recommendations. Perhaps the main disadvantage of cement-based grouts is their relatively low resistance to long-term effects of detergents and moisture, and the limited color gamut of such compounds is also associated with this.
More durable and multi-colored grouts made of epoxy resins. They are characterized by greater mechanical strength and resistance to the effects of chemical( detergent) substances and agents. Such grouts also hold the original color well, according to the manufacturers, up to half a century.
In order for the resin composition to harden, special components called hardeners are needed. The working mixture is prepared in portions sufficient to carry out the work before it solidifies. At the same time, excessively prepared mixtures become unsuitable for use. The peculiarity of the application of grouts is the width of the joint at least six mm. In seams of a smaller width, it will not be possible to wipe the epoxy fugue.
The disadvantages of epoxy grouts include the high price of the product. This limits the use of such grouts in everyday life. In addition, the basis is polyester resins, with an unclear final impact on human health. Based on the above information, the best grout for tiles can be selected and the requirements for preparing for troweling with these materials are determined.