Fogmassa

Fogmassa, in tiling terminology, is a jointing compound used to fill gaps between tiles and seal the edges of a tiled surface. It serves to lock tiles in place, prevent water and dirt from penetrating, and create a uniform finished appearance. The term is commonly used in Swedish-speaking regions and corresponds to grout or sealant in English, depending on the formulation.

There are several main types of fogmassa. Cementitious grout is cement-based and comes in two main forms: unsanded (for narrow joints) and sanded (for wider joints). It is installed by mixing with water to a workable consistency, pressing into joints with a rubber float, and cleaning off the excess. Epoxy grout uses epoxy resins and aggregates for high chemical and stain resistance, making it suitable for heavy-use areas. Silicone or elastomeric sealants are flexible, used for movement joints or areas around fixtures, and do not harden in the same way as cementitious grouts.

Application and curing conditions vary by type. Cementitious grout usually requires careful cleaning after installation and a curing period during which the joints should be protected from water and heavy traffic. Epoxy grout sets quickly and is typically cleaner to work with but requires more precise mixing and tooling. Silicone sealants are applied with a caulking gun and cure by evaporation of solvents, forming a flexible seal.

Maintenance considerations include sealing cementitious grout to improve stain resistance, while epoxy grout generally does not require sealing. Silicone joints should be inspected regularly and replaced when degraded. Cleaning should use pH-neutral cleaners; acidic or highly abrasive products can damage grout surfaces.

Fogmassa choices depend on joint width, tile material, expected traffic, and environmental exposure. Correct selection and proper installation contribute to tile longevity and ease of maintenance.