Cementitious, epoxy, and polymer-based grouts each have specific characteristics that make their selection dependent on project conditions. This article examines in detail the structural, functional, and application differences of these three types of grout, and also discusses factors such as mechanical strength, adhesion to various surfaces, setting time, sensitivity to environmental conditions, repairability, and cost so that the reader can fully understand the needs of the project and select the appropriate type of grout from among the more common types of grout: cementitious and epoxy grouts.
In this article, we will discuss and review in detail the types of cement grout and epoxy grout, and of course, I will not lose sight of the fact that this article should be more about cement grout, so we will also focus on it.
The difference between cement grout and epoxy grout
Cement grouts and epoxy grouts are both used as fillers in construction and renovation projects, but there are major differences in their properties, applications, and how they are used. Here are some of the differences:
Composition and structure
Cement grout: This type of grout is made from a combination of cement, sand, water, and some additives. Cement grout is naturally activated by water, and its structure is more similar to concrete.
Epoxy grout: Epoxy grout, especially two-part epoxy grout, is made up of two components: epoxy resin and hardener. This chemical compound is typically activated by mixing the resin and hardener, resulting in a long drying time and high strength.
Drying time
Cement grout: Cement grout takes a relatively longer time to dry. These grouts usually take between a few hours and a day to fully harden.
Epoxy grout: Epoxy grout has a faster drying time, usually drying in a few hours. This feature is very suitable for projects that require a quickly dried surface.
Resistance and strength
Cement grout: Cement grout is و In particular, high-strength cement grout well-suited for use in normal to moderate conditions. These grouts are resistant to high pressure, but may not perform well against certain chemicals and environmental conditions.
Epoxy grout: Due to its specific chemical structure, epoxy grout has higher resistance to chemicals, moisture, and harsh environmental conditions. These grouts have higher resistance to abrasion and impact and are very suitable for use in industrial and laboratory environments.
Applications
Cement grout: This grout is mostly used in projects that require compressive strength, such as filling gaps and voids in buildings, bridges, and walkways. It is also very suitable for general repairs and work that requires resistance to high pressure.
Epoxy grout: This type of grout is used for projects that require high precision and resistance to chemicals. Epoxy grout is mostly used in special industries, laboratories, industrial equipment, and sensitive spaces.
Flexibility
Cement grout: Cement grout is less flexible than epoxy grout and may crack or deform. Of course, in addition to this issue, special attention should be paid to the issue of increasing the standard volume to control grout shrinkage, which is properly applicable in expanding grout for grouting under the column or base plate.
Epoxy grout: Due to its special structure, epoxy grout is more flexible and can easily be used in special and complex spaces.
Color and appearance
Cement grout: The color of cement grout is usually earthy or gray, and colored grouts can be used for various applications.
Epoxy grout: Epoxy grout is usually available in different colors and can be used to match specific colors.
The difference between cement grout and epoxy grout
Cost
Cement grout: Cement grout is typically cheaper than epoxy grout and is more cost-effective for large, public projects.
Epoxy grout: The cost of epoxy grout is usually higher than cement grout, because these materials have special characteristics and are more complex to produce.
We also recommend reading the article: "Which grout is best for bathrooms, industrial floors, or parking lots?" to learn more about this group of products from Beton Azma Engineering Group.
Vulnerability to temperature
Cement grout: Cement grout may crack or lose strength at very high or low temperatures.
Epoxy grout: Epoxy grout has better resistance to temperature changes and is more suitable for use in different temperature conditions.