Grout is a term we use to describe an adhesive that fills the space in the hole between the asphalt and the anchor. Once cured, the grout binds the anchor to the asphalt in a stress-free method. There are two types of grout that we offer -- cement type EPX2 and epoxy EPX3.
The EPX2 is a really inexpensive solution. It works well, is resistant to water once cured and does not shrink. On the downside, one needs to mix the powder with water in the right ratio to get the required thick-batter consistency. And it can not be worked at low temperature (below 45F).
The EPX3 is a 2-part ester-vinyl epoxy. It is applied with a caulk gun and alleviates the concern about the right mix ratio as the nozzle on the cartridge automatically dispenses the correct ratio of the two components of the epoxy. The EPX3 has the distinct advantage that it can be applied at temperatures as low as 14F. Its shortcomings is that the cost is 5 times as much as a cement-based grout.
Proponents of epoxy claim that epoxy is stronger than cement. That may be true in absolute terms, but when using grout to bind to asphalt, this is a moot point -- even the weakest cement is stronger than any asphalt. Asphalt, not grout, becomes the element that determines the final pull strength of the anchors.
At the end, the decision whether to use cement or epoxy depends on cost vs. convenience, and urgency. Epoxy can be applied faster (no need to premix) and with less skilled labor at a wider range of temperatures. Cement is less expensive.
Posted by Dori on 4/15/2020 to