Laticrete Spectralock vs Permacolor: Which Grout to Use
The Short Answer
Spectralock Pro Premium is a 100% solids epoxy grout — stain-proof, color-consistent, and required for commercial and high-moisture work. Permacolor Select is a high-performance cement-based grout with a color kit system — easier to install, faster cleanup, and roughly a third of the cost. Pick epoxy when the job demands it; use Permacolor for everything else.
Head-to-Head
| Spec | Spectralock Pro Premium | Permacolor Select |
|---|---|---|
| Type | 100% solids epoxy | Cement + polymer, color-packed |
| Stain resistance | Chemical & stain-proof | Stain-resistant (sealer optional) |
| Color consistency | Uniform, no shading | Very good with Select color kits |
| Sanded / unsanded | Sanded texture only | Sanded and non-sanded packs |
| Grout joint range | 1/16" – 1/2" | 1/16" – 1/2" |
| Working time | ~80 min | ~2 hrs |
| Cleanup | Water within working window; brutal after | Standard sponge cleanup |
| Sealing required | No | Optional, penetrating sealer recommended for showers |
| Relative cost | Confirm current price | Confirm current price |
When Spectralock Wins
When Permacolor Wins
Coverage & Cost Planning
Spectralock Mini Units cover roughly 30–50 sq ft of 12" × 12" tile with 1/8" joints. Permacolor Select coverage is comparable per 25 lb bag. Order 10–15% overage on both; epoxy has no shelf life once mixed.
Substrate & Thinset Pairing
Both grouts sit on top of a properly installed tile bed. If you're using Laticrete 254 Platinum or Uzin CX-20 as your bond coat, either grout is compatible — the choice is downstream. For DITRA installations, follow the DITRA over plywood guide for the correct thinset sequence.
Pro Desk Recommendation
Selection depends on the specified assembly, environment, maintenance needs, installer experience, and current manufacturer instructions. The catalog lists PERMACOLOR SELECT components and SPECTRALOCK 1 Pre-Mixed Grout — a pre-mixed grout, not the SPECTRALOCK PRO epoxy; call to confirm the exact system, color, quantity, price, and availability.
Catalog Products to Review
Full Laticrete grout line — Spectralock Pro Premium Mini Units in the popular colors, Permacolor Select base bags plus color kits, and all the sponges, buckets, and grout floats you need. Call the Pro Desk at (406) 309-0616.
Related Guides
Continue planning this job
Use current manufacturer instructions as the authority, then confirm exact products, quantities, availability, and pickup timing with the Pro Desk.