Member News Below you will find information that was discussed regarding epoxy grout at our April Meeting:
To Whom It May Concern: Custom® Building Products does not recommend the use of no-rinse, enzyme-based cleaners to maintain tile installations utilizing our Polyblend or Prism cement based Grout. If an enzyme-based cleaner is not rinsed after application, it will react with oils and greases on the surface creating fatty acids. These acids will break down the cement in the grout, weakening the grout and causing permanent damage to the surface. Laboratory testing revealed that no-rinse, enzyme-based cleaners damage our cement based Polyblend and Prism Grout; softening the surface of the grout. Continued use of no-rinse enzyme based cleaners softens the grout to a degree that it can be washed out of the joints during regular or daily maintenance. Custom non-rinse, enzyme-based cleaners to maintain 100% Solids Epoxy Grout for the reason that if the enzyme-based cleaner is not rinsed after application, it will break down the organic epoxy grout, causing permanent damage. Laboratory testing revealed that non-rinse, enzyme-based cleaners damage epoxy grout and soften the surface. Results for 100% Solids Epoxy showed the enzymes will attack the epoxy as they would any organic material, causing the epoxy polymer to break down, which softens the grout to a degree that it can be washed away during regular or daily maintenance. Custom Building Products’ TileLab cleaners are specially formulated to be safe and not harm tile, stone, epoxy or Portland cement grout surfaces. TileLab Grout & Tile Cleaner, OneStep Cleaner & Resealer or any of the StoneSpecific cleaner & resealers can be used for daily maintenance of epoxy grouts and are highly recommended for use on stone, tile and Portland cement grout. If a stronger cleaner is needed for soiled areas, use TileLab Heavy-Duty Cleaner and Stripper as directed ® Building Products does not recommend the use of® and StoneSpecific™ |
