Grout.

[DaG56]

Hi all.
Is there much difference in the quality of grout? I've tiled a chimney breast with 900 x300 marble effect ceramic tiles and I mitred the corners.
I've got a box of Bartoline white grout but would I find much difference using a different make? Would it be better or easier to apply, or would I get a better finish with a more expensive brand like Mapei? Is grout ok on corners of tiles that are on a brick and plaster wall? I don't want to use silicone and resin is expensive. I can't find anywhere that sells a small amount so I'd be wasting a lot of it.
Thanks for any help.

 

[simplesteve]

Grout choice is something of a personal thing, and I'm sure others will be along their preferences......
Over the years I've mainly used Bal, and Mapei. I prefer the Bal, as I find it mixes easier, the colour/dye is more uniform throughout the mix, and it dries slightly slower.
As you are using white, and it's into Ceramic tiles, I don't think there would be much of a difference to be honest, as any grout should be capable of doing that.
The only thing that may sway you to the ' big brands' is the grout gap/spacer size you've used; if you've mimicked brick bond, and have a 10mm grout line, then I would go for a ' wide joint' grout, and not use the Bartoline.

( p.s. If you are using the Bartoline, check the expiry date on it. That's the kind of product that sits on a shop shelf for years )

 

[DaG56]

The grout gaps are the smallest I could do and still use my leveling system. I did them 1.5mm but the mitred corners are about 4mm across. I left about 1mm of tile edge to prevent chipping so the gap in the corners is about 1.5 to 2mm.
Is grout likely to crack down the corners given the solid background the tiles are on? I used a flexi adhesive so will there still be movement?

 

[drives]

Epoxy grout is next level for durability and crack resistance. Slightly more difficult to work with though, and more expensive.

I've used a lot of different grouts but having now used epoxy for my hallway flooring and three bathrooms I'd not go back to cement grout. Might be slightly overkill for a tiled surface that essentially isn't subject to any traffic/water etc. I'd still be inclined to recommend it in your scenario though as it would be stronger for the mitres.