Yeah, epoxy grout can be a bit too rigid for older homes—learned that the hard way myself. Switched to a flexible, eco-friendly grout last year and it's held up surprisingly well. Plus, bonus points for fewer chemicals...my plants approve.
Epoxy grout definitely has its place, but you're right—older homes often need something with a bit more give. A couple years back, I worked on a 1930s bungalow where epoxy grout caused hairline cracks around the tiles after just a few months. Switched to a flexible grout with polymer additives, and it held up much better. Good call on the eco-friendly stuff too...fewer VOCs is always a plus, especially in smaller spaces like bathrooms.
"Switched to a flexible grout with polymer additives, and it held up much better."
Interesting experience, though I've actually had mixed results with flexible grout myself. A few years back, I renovated an older rental property—built around 1925—and tried the polymer additive stuff thinking it'd handle movement better. It did initially, but after tenants moved in and humidity from regular showers kicked in, mildew became a real headache. Ended up going back to epoxy grout with careful tile prep and a good waterproof membrane underneath. Been holding up fine since...guess every place has its quirks.
Interesting to hear epoxy worked better for you—I get the appeal, but honestly, I still lean toward polymer additives. I've seen epoxy grout crack in older houses where there's more movement, especially if the subfloor isn't rock solid. But you're right about mildew...prep work and waterproofing underneath are key no matter what grout you choose. Learned that the hard way myself after redoing my shower twice in one year. Never again...
Fair points, but honestly I've had epoxy grout hold up surprisingly well even in some pretty creaky old rentals. Maybe I've just been lucky...or maybe my tenants are tiptoeing around to protect their deposits, haha. Either way, prep work really is everything.
