 Premixed grouts.. | |
Be Weary of Taking Shortcuts.
Premixed tile products are often marketed to the do-it-yourselfer as a no mess, no hassle alternative to conventional cementitous tile grouts.
Premixed grouts have extended drying times and may not harden for days or even weeks after the tile installation is complete. This is because premixed products rely on both evaporation and the tile and substrate to wick or pull the moisture from the product allowing it to slowly harden. Cementitious grout will harden within 24 hours and fully cure within 30 days. Cement hardens through a chemical reaction (hydration) that bonds water molecules to the cement mixture. Avoid using premixed grout products altogether.
Cementitous grouts do require more effort to mix, however, cement has proven itself both reliable and durable over a period of thousands of years. Cementitous grout is much less expensive than premixed grouts.
.........dave..
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