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Worktops

Tiled worktops are durable enough to withstand hot pans and will resist staining and abrasion provided that flooring grade tiles are selected.

The drawback of tiles is that the grout lines between the tiles can harbour dirt. It is therefore essential that the grout is durable.

Two part epoxy grout is used in commercial situations where food is prepared because it doesn't stain and it won't harbour bacteria easily. The problem is that this type of grout has to be mixed and applied very quickly because the setting time is only around half an hour; once it is set the only way to remove it is by sanding.

For a domestic kitchen, where the food is prepared on chopping boards and not directly on the tiles, you might find it easier to use an acrylic grout. This is more durable and resistant to staining than powder based wall tile grouts, but it won't last as long as epoxy grout. However, when the time comes to replace it, you can just rake out the top 2mm of grout and place more acrylic grout over the top.

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