FAQs

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 MAPEI’s UltraCare Grout Maximizer, a water-based additive for grout that fortifies the flexibility and stain resistance of the grout.

Products identified with MAPEI's BioBlock logo have been developed in such a way that they do not support mold/mildew/fungi growth after product installation, as certified by external laboratories per industry standard ASTM G21: Standard Practice for Determining Resistance of Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi. Common cleaning and maintenance practices are still needed.

ASTM G21 is an industry standard that uses an intensive testing protocol for determining if fungi, including mold and mildew, can grow on a polymeric material. MAPEI uses a third-party lab and the ASTM G21 standard for testing the antifungal effectiveness of MAPEI products containing polymer that incorporate BioBlock technology. The ASTM G21 test uses a mix of mold and mildew spores that are commonly found in household environments. Product samples are placed on nutrient-containing plates and sprayed with a mixture of these fungi. For 28 days, the test plates are kept at a constant temperature of 84.2°F (29°C) and exposed to high humidity, which are excellent conditions for fungal growth. The samples are then examined for fungal growth. If no growth is present, the product is considered to not support mold/mildew/fungal growth.

For homeowners and building owners, the advantage is after installation. MAPEI’s BioBlock products will not support the growth of mold/mildew/fungi – with adequate cleaning and maintenance practices.

The advantage for contractors and installers is that MAPEI’s BioBlock products do not support the growth of mold/mildew/fungi – with adequate cleaning and maintenance. Therefore, their use can increase the life of an installation, resulting in fewer callbacks for installers and contractors.

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 – is best used to “deep clean” the surface and remove ground-in dirt, cooking oils, etc. These cleaners are safe for occasional use on all natural stone, tile and grout, but are not recommended for regular use. Watch the video below.

MAPEI recommends using UltraCare Penetrating Plus Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer or UltraCare Penetrating Plus SB Stone & Porcelain Tile Sealer on all cement-based grouts, porous natural stone, clay tile, cement-based tile, quarry tile, brick and polished porcelain tile. UltraCare Penetrating Plus Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer leaves the surface unchanged in appearance, is breathable, and does not peel, flake or darken the tile or grout. Once fully cured, UltraCare Penetrating Plus SB Stone & Porcelain Tile Sealer helps protect against the absorption of both water and oil-based contaminants, making the surface easier to clean and maintain.

Both sealers and grout releases protect the tile surface from staining that is caused by grouting. The difference is, a grout release, such as UltraCare Grout Release, is designed to be washed away during the grouting process, leaving no protection behind, while a sealer, such as UltraCare Penetrating Plus Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer or UltraCare Penetrating Plus SB Stone & Porcelain Tile Sealer, stays behind, providing continued protection after grouting. For more details, click here.

Ultratop [NA] is a self-curing topping that is specially formulated for fast-track resurfacing, allowing Ultratop [NA] to be polished 24 hours after being installed. Also, the polishing process of Ultratop Terrazzo System is a “dry” process, so you do not need to manage the dirty water.

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 their unique molecular construction, MAPEI’s UltraCare Penetrating Plus Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer and UltraCare Penetrating Plus SB Stone & Porcelain Tile Sealer are formulated for use on both porous and dense surfaces. To learn more, watch the video below.