FAQ
What is Gas Explosion Reticulation and why might it be important? How does it compare to Chemical Reticulation?
Gas explosion or “thermal” reticulation is a process that Armaly uses to make the most porous, longest lasting, and best performing grout sponges. The process begins by placing high-quality polyester foam “bun” in a very large vacuum pressure chamber. Air is evacuated from the chamber and then filled with an explosive gas mixture. The gas is ignited, and a controlled flame passes through the polyester foam, melting or opening the cell membranes to the optimal level. This process creates sponges that are soft, smooth, and very long-lasting, while maintaining the integrity of polyester skeletal structure. The optimal number of open cells makes the sponges highly absorptive, able to retain and release the maximum water, sand, and cement. Gas explosion reticulation is important, because there are other, less effective (lower cost) processes such as chemical reticulation. Chemical reticulation, the more common method, does not provide as many open sponge cells, which means the sponges are not as absorptive and as such, less effective. Additionally, chemically reticulated sponges become less flexible, harder, and do not last as long.
Why do you supply different types of Sponges? Won’t the Armaly ProPus all my needs?
The Armaly ProPlus Gout Sponge can certainly be used in variety of applications, but over the years we had contractors ask us for more specialized sponges.
As some epoxy grouts and urethane grouts can be a more difficult to remove from the surface tile, we supply an Epoxy Grout Sponge that is slightly textured or abrasive to help clean and remove these types of grouts. Once the excess epoxy grout or urethane grout is removed from the surface of the tile, it is advisable to use aa Armaly ProPlus Grout Sponge to assure a smooth well “tooled” grout joint. The Epoxy Grout Sponge can also be used to help remove dry cement grout
A growing number of Contractors are asking for a using Square Edge Sponges. Some contractors find the square edges design ideal for working/cleaning grout in corners and tight areas. While it is constructed of premium polyester, it is slightly denser than a traditional premium, again based on contractor input.
Can you use a Grout Sponge to apply grout?
No, grout sponges are used to clean grout from the tile surface. The primary tool used to apply grout to tile joints is the grout float; we recommend the Primo/Bottini TruBlu Grout Float.
What is the difference between the Armaly ProPlus Grout Sponge and BOE Sponge?
The BOE Grout Sponge was developed to make available a very competitively priced sponge that provides good performance. BOE Grout Sponges will not last as long, nor clean as effectively as Armaly ProPlus Grout Sponges, but they provide good value for the price.
When would I use the Microfiber Wrapped Sponge?
How is a Armaly ProPlus Grout Sponge used to clean newly installed grout?
Before using the Armaly ProPlus Grout Sponge to remove grout from the tile surface, it is always to best use a high-quality grout float, (that will not only tightly pack the grout into the joint, but will also remove as much of the excess/residual grout from the surface to the tile; we recommend Primo/Bottini TruBlu Grout Float.
Cleaning should begin after the grout develops a dry, skinned-over appearance, which is typically within 5 to 10 minutes. But temperature, humidity and tile’s absorption rate all affect drying time. Do NOT let grout completely dry on the surface of the tile. The grout sponge should be fully wetted by being submerged in a bucket of clean water. Remove the grout sponge from the water and wring dry by hand to achieve a lightly dampened sponge. It is important to use as little water as possible when cleaning grout from surface of tile to assure consistent color and strong grout joints. Fortunately, Armaly ProPlus Grout Sponges are designed to be highly porous to retain and release water well, resulting in the most effective grout installation cleaning tool. Wipe the lightly dampened grout sponge diagonally across the tile surface, removing any excess grout. Avoid wiping in the same direction as the grout joints. After each wipe-down, rinse and wring out the sponge to prevent adding excess water to the tile surface or grout joints. The rinse water should be changed frequently; it is advisable to have multiple buckets of clean water.
Finally, it is a good idea to use of a terrycloth or Primo/Bottini Microfiber Towel to polish, clean, and dry the surface of the tile.
Can I use Armaly Proplus Grout Sponges on different types of tile and stone surfaces?
Yes, Armaly, ProPlus Grout Sponges are safe and effective on various tile and stone surfaces, including ceramic, porcelain, marble, granite, and more. They are versatile and won’t scratch or damage your tiles.
