Choosing the Right Grout for a Family Bathroom Renovation

Grout choice comes up on almost every bathroom job we quote, and it’s usually the last decision made before the tiler starts — often in a rush. On a recent ensuite renovation in Melbourne’s west, the homeowner asked us the same question we hear constantly: epoxy or cement grout? Here’s how we talked through it, and what we landed on.

The Brief

The ensuite had a full shower recess, a floating vanity, and porcelain tiles chosen for their low maintenance. The homeowner wanted a grout that would hold its colour and stay stain-free with minimal upkeep, but was mindful of budget across the rest of the renovation.

Epoxy grout mixed on site — ratio and mixing time matter more than with cement grout

Why We Recommended Epoxy for the Shower

For the shower recess itself, we recommended epoxy grout. It’s virtually non-porous, so it doesn’t need sealing, and it stands up to daily soap, shampoo and moisture far better than cement grout over the life of the bathroom. Mixed correctly — to the manufacturer’s exact ratio, not by eye — it cures into a dense, stain-resistant joint that keeps its colour for years.

Where Cement Grout Still Made Sense

Outside the shower, on the main floor and around the vanity, we used a quality cement grout instead. It’s more cost-effective, easier to keep consistent across a larger area, and perfectly durable in lower-moisture zones once sealed. Splitting the grout choice by zone, rather than using one product throughout, kept the budget sensible without compromising the shower’s performance.

Every job is different, and the right split between epoxy and cement grout depends on layout, budget and how the space gets used. For the full breakdown — cost, durability, maintenance and where each one performs best — see our complete guide: Epoxy vs Cement Grout: Which Is Better for Tiles in Australia?