You may not think there is much to do when choosing which tile adhesive to use, but there is more to consider than you might think. Before you buy, there are a few things that you need to consider before you determine which tile adhesive is right for your job.
Find the right mix
There are two types of adhesives: ready-to-use paste and powder. The advantage of pre-made mixes is that they can be used straight out of the tub, saving you the time and effort of mixing the glue yourself. The downside, however, is that it really only works for small ceramic tiles (less than 30 x 30 cm) and splash guards.
Powdered adhesive, on the other hand, can be used on any tile and almost any surface. It’s also cheaper than the premixed one and has a much stronger bond.
What color?
Most adhesives can be bought in gray or white. Which one you buy depends on the seal color you choose. If you are using a darker grout it is better to use a gray glue, and vice versa if you are using a white grout.
Is there underfloor heating?
If the room you are moving has underfloor heating, it is important to use flexible glue. This is because by heating and cooling the heater, the non-flexible adhesive will tear. You should also consider the heating system itself. While most flexible adhesives will work with both electric and water-based underfloor heating systems, it is always worth taking expert advice on which is best for your system.
Take the time to do a good job
When it comes to adhesives, you can achieve varying set speeds, often referred to as « standard » or « fast ». As soon as the adhesive has hardened, you can start grouting and finish the job. Hence, you would probably go for the quick settings option. However, if you’re laying tiles in a room with a difficult pattern, you can benefit from using a slower setting adhesive to ensure you have time to give what it should be.
Where do you tile?
It is important to think about the area you are moving. For wet rooms, showers, bathrooms and kitchens, it is recommended to use waterproof adhesive due to the humidity in the room.
What do you tile on?
If you’re planning on tiling fresh plaster, be sure to apply a primer before you begin. This will ensure that the surface has been sealed and that no water is extracted, resulting in a stronger bond. If you’re laying tile over hardwood floors, make sure you have a solid tile backing or plywood before you begin, and don’t use pre-mixed glue – powder is best for wood. When laying tile on a concrete floor, first make sure that the concrete is completely dry, then use an electrical adhesive as well.
When it comes to tile projects, finding the right adhesive is extremely important because then the job will look good when you’re done and will look great in the long run. It is always worth talking to the experts about their opinion. So speak to one of our consultants in the store to make sure you’re choosing the right adhesive for your job. You can find the nearest store in the Store Locator on our website.