FAQs - Common Questions We Get Asked

• What's New in Mortar and Grout Products? 
  Advancements in pre-mixed grout saves you both time and resources. Choose from SPECTRALOCK 1 or READY-TO-USE grout options with endless grout color choices! Learn more about the innovations made in our blog on mortar and grout products. 
• How do I Pick the Best Grout for my Project? 
  Grout, when properly installed, will enhance the final appearance and performance of any tile, paver, stone, or brick installation. LATICRETE Technical Services Department offers this LATICRETE Grout Guide (TDS 400) to ensure that the project specifier is given enough information to make the best possible decision about the selection, installation and maintenance of grout.
• How do you Care for Cement Grout? 
  Regular and routine maintenance is required to maintain the long term beauty of the grout, and, wiping up spills quickly and thoroughly will help minimize the possibility of staining. Learn how to maintain your grout in our blog, "Cement Grout Care and Maintenance".  
• What Factors Affect the Final Cement Grout Color? 
  Color variation is inherent with any cement based grout. There are many variables which can affect the final color of the grout. Some of these variables include uneven hydration of the cement, varying density and porosity of the tile or stone, type of substrate, over-glazed tile edges, self-spacing tile lugs, varying amounts of water used for grout mixing, excessive or varying amounts of water used during grout clean-up, job site conditions, mortar high in the joint, lighting, and different manufacturer’s “dye lots” when multiple units of grout are installed. Learn more in our TDS 174. 
• Is Epoxy Grout Easy to Use? 
  Grouting with epoxy is no longer confined to restaurants or industrial facilities. With new technology and availability, the average homeowner is now demanding a stain-resistant epoxy grouted tile installation. Learn quick tips on how to use SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium or SPECTRALOCK PRO Grout* in TDS 191. 
• How do I Remove Epoxy Grout Haze? 
  LATICRETE produces easy to use epoxy based grouts. When LATAPOXY® and LATICRETE Grouts are used in accordance with installation and clean-up methods they will enhance your tile project by creating long lasting durability and beauty. However, we know sometimes haze happens. Review TDS 198 to follow these steps to remove epoxy grout haze. 
• How can I Grout Narrow Vertical Joints with SPECTRALOCK PRO Grout and SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout? 
  Follow the steps outlined in TDS 149 when grouting with these epoxy grouts in narrow, vertical grout joints. 
• What is the Proper Method for Epoxy Grout Joint Removal? 
  There are several different methods including: mechanical, chemical or use of a heat gun. Learn how to use these grout removal methods by following our TDS 111. 
• How do I Re-Grout Floor Joints in a Commercial Kitchen or Industrial Application? 
  Degradation or deterioration of an epoxy grout can occur when the circumstances are right or when the wrong epoxy grout is used in areas subject to extreme conditions. Degradation or deterioration of portland cement based grouts is a more common occurrence in harsh commercial and industrial applications or areas exposed to chemicals. Follow TDS 144 to learn the tools needed, options to remove deteriorating grout and how to re-grout using SPECTRALOCK® 2000 IG. 
• What is the Best Grout Solution for Commercial Kitchens (Back of the House) and Industrial Applications? 
  The best defense against harsh chemicals, the use of no-rinse cleaners, extreme conditions or exposure to bacterial attack is to use high performance epoxy grouts designed for use in these demanding environments. SPECTRALOCK 2000 IG, in #22 Midnight Black, is the best product to use for optimal performance in these harsh environments. Learn more in TDS 258. 

Finding tile grout that will withstand time, wear, and the elements has been a challenge confronted by installers, designers and builders for decades. Thanks to the dedication and ingenuity of the experts at LATICRETE®, we offer a wide variety of grout products including: epoxy grouts, one-step/premixed grouts and cementitious grouts. 

Our grout products exceed the toughest commercial criteria, providing worry-free installations!