The fundamental difference between KERAPOXY and KERAPOXY DESIGN lies in their scope and specific application: KERAPOXY refers to the overall family of high-performance epoxy grouts from Mapei, while KERAPOXY DESIGN is a specialized product within this family, specifically formulated for narrower grout joints, particularly common in mosaic installations.
Understanding the KERAPOXY Family
KERAPOXY is the umbrella brand name for Mapei's range of two-component epoxy grouts. These grouts are renowned for their exceptional chemical resistance, durability, and impermeability, making them ideal for areas requiring high performance, such as bathrooms, kitchens, industrial floors, and swimming pools. Within this family, various products are tailored for different needs. For instance, Mapei offers different epoxy grout solutions for various applications, as detailed on their official site.
The Specialization of KERAPOXY DESIGN
KERAPOXY DESIGN stands out as a unique formulation within the KERAPOXY line. It has been specifically developed to address the unique requirements of grouting mosaics and tiles with very narrow joints.
Key Distinctions
Here’s a breakdown of the primary differences between the general KERAPOXY product range (often exemplified by products like KERAPOXY CQ) and KERAPOXY DESIGN:
| Feature | KERAPOXY (General/e.g., KERAPOXY CQ) | KERAPOXY DESIGN |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | The overarching family of Mapei epoxy grouts, including various formulations. | A specific, specialized product within the KERAPOXY family. |
| Primary Use | General-purpose epoxy grouting for various tiles in demanding environments. | Specifically developed for grouting mosaics and tiles with narrow joints. |
| Joint Width | Typically suited for joints 3 mm wide and above. | Optimized for joints up to 3 mm wide. |
| Consistency | Formulated for broader application over larger areas and wider joints. | Finer consistency to easily penetrate and fill very narrow mosaic joints. |
| Aesthetic Focus | Durable and functional grout for various tile types. | Designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of mosaics with fine, uniform lines. |
When to Choose Which Product
Choosing between a standard KERAPOXY product (like KERAPOXY CQ) and KERAPOXY DESIGN depends primarily on the tile type and the width of the grout joints:
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Choose a general KERAPOXY product (e.g., KERAPOXY CQ) when:
- You are grouting standard ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles.
- The grout joints are 3 mm or wider.
- You require a robust, chemically resistant grout for general applications in high-traffic or wet areas.
- More information on various epoxy grout uses can be found at Mapei's Epoxy Grouts.
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Choose KERAPOXY DESIGN when:
- You are grouting mosaics, glass tiles, or other materials with very fine, narrow joints.
- The grout joints are 3 mm or less in width.
- A smooth, fine finish is crucial for the aesthetic integrity of the tiled surface, especially for transparent or artistic mosaics.
In essence, while both fall under the high-quality KERAPOXY umbrella and offer superior performance compared to traditional cementitious grouts, KERAPOXY DESIGN offers a refined solution specifically engineered for the delicate and precise demands of narrow-jointed mosaic installations.
