Choosing the right grout is just as important as choosing the right tile. The wrong type can scratch a beautiful surface or fail in a wet area. For projects with delicate materials and narrow joints, Polyblend® Plus Non-Sanded Grout is often the perfect solution. This polymer-fortified grout mixes with just water and is made for tiles that need a gentle touch.
At Elit Tile, we help our customers select the right materials for lasting beauty, and understanding your grout options is a key part of a successful tile project.
What Is Polyblend Plus Non-Sanded Grout?
Polyblend Plus is a cement-based grout that does not contain sand. Instead, it is fortified with polymers. These polymers add strength, flexibility, and durability to the mix. It is certified to meet ANSI A118.6 standards, which is your assurance of professional-grade performance.
The "Plus" in the name refers to improved features over the original formula, including brighter, more vivid color and better consistency from batch to batch. This means the color you choose is the color you get, with less chance of uneven shades.
When Should You Use This Type of Grout?
This grout is specifically designed for joint widths up to 1/8 inch (3 mm). Its most important use is for tiles and stones that could be scratched by a sanded grout. You should use it for:
- Highly polished or glazed ceramic and porcelain tile.
- Sensitive natural stone like marble, limestone, or travertine.
- Glass tile installations.
It is versatile for many locations. You can use it on interior or exterior walls, floors, countertops, and ceilings. It is also approved for wet areas like showers, fountains, and even submerged applications in swimming pools and spas.
Key Benefits and Features
Using Polyblend Plus Non-Sanded Grout offers several advantages for your project:
- Scratch-Resistant: Its smooth, sand-free formula protects delicate tile surfaces from abrasion during application.
- Durable and Non-Shrinking: The polymer fortification creates hard, dense joints that resist cracking, powdering, and wear over time.
- Excellent Color Consistency: Enhanced pigments offer vibrant, uniform color with minimal variation, which is a common concern with cement grouts.
- Efflorescence Resistance: It is formulated to better resist the white, chalky salt residue (efflorescence) that can sometimes appear on grout lines.
- Simple to Use: It is a straightforward mix-with-water product, making it accessible for DIYers and pros alike.
For a project that starts with the perfect materials, finding the right color is important. We carry a wide spectrum, including popular shades like Polyblend Plus non-sanded tile grout 10Lb #122 Linen, to match any design vision.
Important Limitations and Safety Notes
While versatile, this grout has limits you must know. Do not use it for joints wider than 1/8 inch. It is not for industrial settings or areas with constant harsh chemicals. Also, it should never be used in movement joints (like where a wall meets a floor); a flexible sealant is required there instead.
Safety is paramount. This product contains portland cement and crystalline silica. When mixing, you must wear impervious gloves (like nitrile), safety glasses, and an NIOSH-approved N95 dust mask. Avoid breathing the dust. Work in a well-ventilated area and clean your skin and tools promptly with water.
How to Use It: Application Tips for Best Results
A proper installation makes all the difference. First, make sure your tiles are firmly set and the mortar has cured for 24 to 48 hours. The joints must be clear of debris and spacers. For porous tile that might stain, a pre-grout sealer is a smart step.
Mix the powder with clean, cool water according to the package directions, about 2.9 pints of water per 10-pound box. Use a low-speed drill mixer for a smooth, lump-free consistency. Let the mixed grout sit (or "slake") for 5 minutes, then give it a final brief remix before using it.
Apply the grout with a rubber float held at a 45-degree angle, pressing firmly to fill joints completely. Remove the excess by holding the float at 90 degrees. Cleanup is important. After the grout firms up (usually 15-30 minutes), use a damp, wrung-out sponge in a circular motion to smooth the joints and clean the tile surface. Rinse your sponge often in clean water. A final haze removal can be done after a few hours. Remember, the quality of your tiles deserves a grout that performs just as well.
Curing, Sealing, and Final Care
Allow the grout to cure fully. Keep it damp for the first 72 hours by misting with water, especially for exterior applications. Protect new grout from rain, foot traffic, and freezing temperatures for at least a week.
While the grout is durable, applying a penetrating sealer after it has fully cured (usually at least 21 days) will offer extra protection against stains and moisture in high-use areas like showers. This simple step can extend the life and beauty of your installation for years.
Choosing Polyblend Plus Non-Sanded Grout means choosing a product designed to protect your investment in beautiful tile. Its balance of gentle application and durable results makes it a reliable choice for so many projects. At Elit Tile, we focus on offering the quality materials and clear guidance that both homeowners and contractors need to feel confident from start to finish.