Polyblend vs. Prism Grout: A Detailed Comparison

When purchasing materials for tile installation, you will need to make a number of choices. For example, you will need to select the right kind of grout.

Since there are several grout types available and they all promise improved performance, making this choice isn’t always simple.

Today, we’ll concentrate on two of the most often used choices: Prism Grout and Polyblend. Despite being manufactured by the same company, the two grouts are substantially different.

Grout made of polyblend

There are two varieties of polyblend grout: sanded and non-sanded. You therefore have two choices. Because it is more resilient to cracking and more long-lasting, the sanded option is superior.

Anyway, going return to Polyblend, it is a grout enhanced with polymers and based on cement. It produces dense junctions that are more resilient to deterioration and shrinkage when applied after tiles are installed.

Joints between 1/8″ and 1/2″ can be filled with polyblend grout. This pertains to the sanded variety. The non-sanded is only suitable for joints that are 1/8″ in diameter. It can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Among the simplest grouts to prepare is polyblend grout. All you have to do is combine it with water. It is a long-lasting choice. Considering that it is polymer fortified, that shouldn’t be shocking.

The Ultimate Performance of Prism Grout

Prism is a great grouting material from Custom Building Products as well. It is a cement and calcium-based grout treated with latex polymers. It’s clear from a glance at the recipe that this isn’t your normal grout.

Prism is referred to as the ultimate performance grout by Custom Building Products for a reason. This thing is quite robust.

It is capable of withstanding the most severe circumstances, such as high humidity and temperatures. The robust formula guarantees that the Prism grout will maintain its finish for the longest period of time in terms of color shading.

Although we are currently working on the formula, you should be aware that Prism is made of recycled glass and fine, light sand, which makes it simple to apply and obtain a smooth consistency.

The fact that Prism doesn’t effloresce under any circumstances is one of my favorite things about it. It can also be applied on 1/2-inch joints.

Some customers disagree with the manufacturer’s assertion that Prism doesn’t require sealing. The excellent thing about this grout is that it sets quickly; within four hours, you may walk on the floor it is applied to.

In What Ways Do They Differ?

As previously stated, the same manufacturer manufactures Polyblend and Prism. Nonetheless, these two kinds of grouts differ greatly from one another. Let’s get right to the point;

• Equations

Polyblend is a polymer-modified grout made of cement. This mixture is what gives it its durability as a grout.

Conversely, Prism is a cement and calcium-based latex-polymer-modified grout. Compared to Polyblend, Prism is more durable because to its robust composition.

• Grout Type

There are two types of polyblend: sanded and non-sanded. You have a variety of options based on your preferences and tastes thanks to this availability.

Only the sanded version of prism, which has tiny glass and sand particles, is offered.

• Size of Tile Joints

Joints up to 1/2″ in size can be grouted using polyblend. 1/8-inch joints can be filled with the non-sanded version of Polyblend.

Joints up to 1/2″ in length can be filled with prism.

You must be very mindful of the grout’s maximum joint size. Because grout won’t last if the joints are too large for it to fill. Unlike the non-sanded Polyblend, Prism can be applied to larger joints.

• Resistance to Stains

Stain resistance is moderate for polyblend grout. You won’t have to worry about this if you use it indoors, as it won’t be exposed to a lot of muck and filth.

Compared to Polyblend, prism grout has superior stain resistance. This is because of Prism’s robust formula, which can withstand any kind of exposure. Prism is the best grout for outdoor use because of its superior stain resistance.

• Color Selections

In terms of color possibilities, Polyblend grout performs better than Prism grout. In contrast to its cousin, Polyblend has been in existence for a considerable amount of time. It comes in a wide variety of colors as a result.

Polyblend grout is a great option if you’re looking for a particular, distinctive hue.

There aren’t many color options with Prism. You should be aware that the few colors that are offered come in a variety of shades before you disregard it.

As a result, you may find something that is somewhat similar to what you are looking for even if you are unable to find it exactly.

Some consumers have stated that Prism has more accurate colors than Polyblend, even though we are still working on colors.

• Curing Duration

The expected cure time for Polyblend is 24 to 48 hours. That area needs to be kept separated throughout that time. Product failure is most likely to result from early exposure to traffic.

It takes four hours for prism grout to cure. It is among the grouts that dry the fastest available. Prism grout has an advantage over Polyblend since it takes less time to cure.

Prism grout should therefore be your best option if you want to complete your tile installation project as quickly as possible.

What Similarities Do They Have?

• Sealants are necessary for both.

According to Custom Building Products, sealants are not necessary for these two grouts. But based on the majority of people’s experiences, sealing Polyblend and Prism grouts is preferable. Both grouts are guaranteed to last longer and withstand wear with a sealer.

• Both are simple to use, and cleanup is simple after installation.

Working with Prism and Polyblend is quite simple, from setup to implementation. Prism and Polyblend, in contrast to other grouts, readily attain a smooth consistency. These grouts readily penetrate the tile joints when applied to the tiles.

They are simple to clean up after you’re finished. But only if you clean them immediately can you do this.

It will be extremely difficult to remove Prism or Polyblend once it has cured on the tile surface. Even though they are simple to clean, you shouldn’t wear them for extended periods of time.

• Fine Grain Sand Is Present in Both

The presence of fine-grain sands in these two products is another resemblance. This guarantees that the grout will be simple to make and use.

Polyblend Grout Benefits

• There are more color possibilities for polyblend grout. Additionally, the colors are very consistent.
• It is simple to install and prepare. It’s ideal for do-it-yourself projects.
• It adheres firmly to joints and is difficult to remove.
• According to the manufacturer, sealant is not necessary. However, be sure to seal the grout if you want it to endure longer.
• It doesn’t shrink easily.

Drawbacks to Polyblend Grout

• It has a low stain resistance.
• Polyblend has been known to crack when it dries.

Benefits of Prism Grout

• It is an extremely resilient grout that can tolerate heavy traffic.
• Its potent mix makes it ideal for usage in outdoor settings.
• A consistent, uniform finish is assured.
• It can tolerate high humidity and temperatures.
• All kinds of tiles can be used with Prism.

Prism Grout Drawbacks

• It is untrue to say that sealant is not necessary.
• It solidifies quickly. It must be installed quickly to avoid wasting a lot of it on the bucket.

Which is superior? Comparing Polyblend and Prism Grout

When purchasing grout for tile installation, it is best to choose for a more robust grout with superior qualities. Prism Grout is the better choice of these two alternatives.

It cures in less than five hours, which is faster. Because of its rich formula, it is resistant to stains and can endure harsh outdoor conditions.

Nevertheless, Polyblend has its advantages as well, so you shouldn’t ignore it. There are more color options for Polyblend. Therefore, Polyblend grout is an option if you want something different.