MAPEI recommends using UltraCare Penetrating SB Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer on all cement-based grouts, porous natural stone, clay tile, cement-based tile, quarry tile, brick and polished porcelain tile. This sealer leaves the surface unchanged in appearance, is breathable, and doesn’t peel, flake or darken the tile or grout. Once fully cured, it helps protect against the absorption of both water and oil-based contaminants, making the surface easier to clean and maintain.
Both are roller-applied waterproofing membranes that meet the same standards (ANSI 118.10). The difference is in application, drying and coverage.
Consult the products’ Technical Data Sheets for more information on their specific attributes.
Direct application of tile mortars over oriented strand board (OSB) panels is not recommended; first, an uncoupling membrane such as Mapeguard UM is needed as a substrate for proper adhesion of the mortar.
For more information, see the technical document “Surface Preparation Requirements.”
No, the concrete must be prepared by mechanical means to receive a thin-set mortar. New concrete surfaces should be wood-floated or broom-finished. Mechanically prepare concrete substrates to a minimum International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) concrete surface profile (CSP) of #2 to #3 for setting mortars. Grinding with a diamond blade is sufficient in most installations.
MAPEIFlexcolor CQ is a ready to use grout that is 100% acrylic and dries harder than cement-based grout. The residue left behind, when not properly removed during the grouting process, can appear as a clear film that can become tacky. This residue can easily be removed using UltraCare Heavy-Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner.
There are several types of cleaners that are used for a variety of different reasons. Alkaline cleaners (high pH), such as UltraCare Heavy-Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner, are best used to “deep clean” the surface and remove organic soiling, such as ground in dirt, cooking oils, etc. These cleaners are safe for occasional use on all natural stone, tile & grout, but are not recommended for regular use.
It used to be said that solvent-based products were more durable and longer lasting than water-based products. In today’s world, we have water-based technology that is equal to, or better than, solvent-based products. Because of its unique molecular construction, UltraCare Penetrating SB Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer is formulated for use on both porous and dense surfaces.
Anyone with basic painting skills can use UltraCare Grout Refresh. The product container has a cone shaped applicator tip that easily directs the sealant to the grout joint. All it takes is a toothbrush, or similar nylon brush to spread it on the grout, plus a bucket of clean water and a clean damp sponge to remove the excess.
Replacing grout is certainly one way to fix the problem. Instead, use UltraCare Grout Refresh, a water-based color seal, available in 40 standard grout colors. It’s made for refreshing the look of old, discolored grout, or completely changing the color of the existing grout. Don’t replace it, Grout Refresh it!
When it comes to removing tough epoxy grout haze, time is of the essence. The longer it sits on the tile, the longer it takes to remove. Use UltraCare Epoxy Grout Haze Remover to safely and effectively remove epoxy grout haze. For epoxy haze that has been on the surface for more than 7 days, use UltraCare Heavy-Duty Sealer & Coating Stripper.
Cement based grouts have been around for decades and are very reliable, but are also the most porous and stain susceptible of all the grouts. Instead of using just plain water to mix the grout, use UltraCare Grout MAXimizer, a water-based additive for grout that fortifies the flexibility and stain resistance of the grout.
UltraCareGrout MAXimizer is not a sealer. It is a polymer additive, formulated specifically for use in standard cement-based grout mixtures to fortify the grout and help resist staining caused by water borne contaminants. Some premium sealers repel both water and oil-based staining.
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