should my builder have used different materials?

[mandimoo]

we have a new tiled splashback to the gas hob. the builder has used mastick to seal the join between tile and worktop. my issue with this is that its all 'gluey', so when I clean it, its getting rolled up and bits of 'stuff' are getting stuck in it and I know that in a short space of time it is going to look unsightly. is there another product on the market that he should have used?

furthermore, the grouting between the tiles is all cementy, when you rub your finger over it, its gritty and sort of comes away if you rub it only gently. I know that this is going to look unsightly too as kitchen grease and food splashes get into it.

this tiling extends around the kitchen sink, so any splashing made when washing up, wont just roll off the surface, but will absorb into the grout. surely this isnt right?

builder is going to phone to talk about getting his final payment and I want to be able to say to him that im not happy because he should have "?????"

Please can someone advise me?

[The Builder]

A tiled splashback behind a gas hob, I guess is always going to accumulate grease. A standard grout is going to suffer fairly quickly. There are literally dozens of grouts available, but the best thing I can think of would be to include an additive in the mix. That would stop the powdering, and also make the grout much more resistant to grease etc.

It's very specialised today. I'm guessing that your guy has used a proper, standard grout that any DIYer would use........... and used it in all good faith. If so, then a good idea would be to remove it now, and re-grout with something suitable. It's going to depend on his "attitude". That's a depressing thought, I know. Good luck.

Old-fashioned non-setting mastic (if that's what it is) wouldn't be the right seal between cooker and tiles. Modern silicone is usually used now. Once it's cured, no amount of touching or rubbing should disturb it.