Waterproof grout


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Old 02-14-23, 12:09 PM
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Waterproof grout

Does anything like waterproof grout really exist ? Or are these just overhyped epoxy grout ?

I used to think that grout can never be waterproof though it can be water resistant
 
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Old 02-14-23, 12:35 PM
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I'm not the pro in this area but I've never heard of waterproof grout.
It wasn't intended to be the water seal between the tile and the wall so it didn't have to be.

There are always new and improved products. Do they work.... maybe.
There should be more replies coming in later.
 
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Old 02-14-23, 02:47 PM
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Assuming this is for a shower, when proper membranes, barriers are installed grout doesn't need, and isn't, waterproof.

I've never used epoxy grout!
 
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Old 02-14-23, 05:30 PM
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Both epoxy and polyurethane tile grout are essentially waterproof when properly installed. But as previous posters state, that's not that important in a proper tile job. The big advantage to epoxy and polyurethane grouts are their resistance to staining and cracking/crumbling (like regular grout tends to do over time). Epoxy grout is a real pain to work with. Poly is closer to regular grout in terms of ease of use, but can be hard to find and is available in limited colors. Both alternatives are way more expensive (but you don't use that much). Neither has to be sealed after installation.

I've got three bath remodels coming up and I will use poly tile grout just for the increased stain and mold/mildew resistance.
 
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Old 02-15-23, 05:23 AM
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The use of a silicone wiping after the job is done and then periodically applied is supposed to provide waterproofing or moisture resistance to a degree. Most people do it when the tile is first put on then forget about it thereafter.
 
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Old 02-17-23, 03:50 PM
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Thank you all .... some context.

This is for my condo in India.

Construction in India is always brick and mortar and MANY contractor take a shortcut mixing some chemical liquid while mixing the mortar and call it waterproof.

My condo has a leak from condo above and the owner is refusing to spend money to rip the bathroom, do proper waterproofing and then reinstall tiles.

I am trying trying to find if there is an easier and cost effective solution by rerouting the tiles
 
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Old 02-18-23, 06:58 AM
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Grout sealer isnt a fix, even replacing the grout with something like epoxy grout may not do the job, that's a tough spot to be in but he does have the responsibility to stop the leak, is there anything like a HOA to intervene?
 
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Old 02-18-23, 07:06 AM
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If the leak is from above, nothing you do in the lower bath will resolve the problem.
 
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Old 02-18-23, 09:27 AM
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I think the leak is in the upstairs neighbor and he's trying to find a solution to help the guy who doesn't want to tear out his shower.
 
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Old 02-18-23, 10:01 AM
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Oh! Maybe I mis read it.
 
 

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