When you’re planning a renovation or restoration project involving tiles — whether it’s refreshing your bathroom, regrouting your kitchen splashback, or investing in a complete tile and grout restoration — one of the biggest decisions is choosing the right type of grout. The material you choose can make a big difference to how your tiled areas look, feel, clean and last over time.
As tile and grout restoration professionals, we often get asked the same question: Should I use epoxy grout or cement grout? Here is some information to help with your decision on which type of grout will work for you.
Cement Grout:
Cement grout has been the industry standard for decades, however this doesn’t mean it is the best option. It’s a powder-based mixture (usually cement, sand, and water) that is applied between tiles and then cured to form a solid joint.
Benefits of Cement Grout:
- Cost-effective:
Cement grout is cheaper to buy and install than epoxy grout, making it popular for large areas or projects with tighter budgets. - Easy to apply:
Many tilers are very familiar with cement grout, so application is straightforward. - Variety of colours:
Available in a wide range of shades to match or contrast your tiles. - Can apply sealant:
Grout sealant can be applied on top of the cement grout to seal in the newness and make cleaning easier.
Things to Consider:
- Porous:
Cement grout naturally absorbs moisture and stains. Without sealing, it can quickly look dirty, especially in showers and kitchens. - Maintenance:
Regular deep-cleaning with tough chemicals and periodic resealing are required to keep it in good condition. - Durability:
While suitable for most domestic uses, it is prone to cracking, chipping, and discolouration in a shorter amount of time, especially if not sealed.
Cement grout is a good choice if you’re looking for an affordable, familiar option and don’t mind the extra upkeep.
Epoxy Grout:
Epoxy grout is made from epoxy resins and hardener, and sometimes also a filler powder. This creates a dense, non-porous material that is far more resistant than traditional cement grout. Due to its durability its maintenance and restoration needs are much less thus reducing waste and is a better long-term alternative to cement based grout.
Benefits of Epoxy Grout:
- Stain and water resistant:
Perfect for wet areas such as showers, laundries and kitchens. Spills and splashes won’t penetrate. - Durable:
Highly resistant to cracking, crumbling, and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. - Low maintenance:
No sealing required. Once cured, it’s easy to clean and stays looking new for longer. - Colour longevity:
Resists fading and keeps its appearance even in harsh conditions.
Things to Consider:
- Higher cost:
Epoxy grout is more expensive both in product and installation. - Specialist application:
It requires experience and skill to apply correctly. Poor installation can leave a sticky residue (also known as ‘grout haze’) that’s difficult to remove.
Epoxy grout is ideal if you want maximum durability and minimal maintenance, especially in areas where hygiene, water resistance, and long-term appearance are your top priority.
Which One Is Right for You?
The choice really comes down to your priorities:
- On a budget or updating a low-moisture area?
Cement grout may suit you best, provided you’re prepared for ongoing maintenance. We highly recommend you seal this grout for longevity in appearance and lifespan. - Want a “fit-and-forget” solution with maximum durability?
Epoxy grout is worth the investment, especially in showers, kitchens, and other high-use or wet areas.
At GroutPro, we use both cement and epoxy grouts depending on the job and the customer’s needs. A tiled living area might suit cement grout with a good quality sealer, while a shower restoration will almost always benefit from epoxy grout for its water and mould resistance.
If you want your grout to stay cleaner for longer, resist stains, and reduce your long-term maintenance, epoxy grout is often the smarter choice. Cement grout still has its place — particularly if you’re after an affordable update or a specific colour look — but it does require more care.
Not sure which option is best for your home? That’s where we come in. GroutPro technicians can inspect your tiled areas, explain the pros and cons for your specific situation, and provide a tailored recommendation — giving you peace of mind and a beautiful, long-lasting result.
