Tile adhesives play a significant role in making your tiles remain in place for a long time. However, several factors can affect tile adhesive performance. Knowing these factors can help you to achieve Tile Installations Successfully and set long-term results.
- Surface Preparation
Surface preparation is one of the most important factors that influence tile adhesive performance. The surface where the tiles shall be placed must be clean, dry, and free from any dust, grease, or other loose particles. In case the surface is not properly prepared, the tile adhesive may not bond properly and hence there may be poor adhesion between the tiles. - Type of Tile Adhesive
Tile adhesives are not of the same kind. In fact, various tile adhesives are formulated for specific applications. For instance, various adhesive materials may be recommended for ceramic tiles compared to porcelain or natural stone tile. The best tile adhesive must be used depending on the type of tile and environment in which the tile will be applied; that is, indoor or outdoor environment. - Mixing of Tile Adhesive
Poor performance is attributed to improper mix of tile adhesive. Tile adhesives are mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions while ensuring proper proportion of water and adhesive. Too much water may weaken the adhesive or make the adhesive too liquid and unworkable. Tile adhesive with a proportionate amount of water, or lesser water will ensure that the great bond holds the tiles in place. - Application Method
Its performance also depends on the application method of tile adhesive. The right notched trowel use during tile adhesive application prevents an irregular spread of adhesive. Lopsided application leads to weak adhesion and makes the tiles lift or crack after some time. Proper application spreads the tile adhesive to achieve maximum coverage and ensures great bonding. - Drying and Curing Time
Tile adhesive should be allowed to harden and cure. The hardening and curing process will take a back seat if one walks on the tiles immediately or exposes the tiles to moisture before the adhesive has fully cured, weakening the bonding. Should the recommended drying and curing time lapse then, the long-term performance of the tile adhesive will all that much better. - Temperature and Humidity
Even conditions like temperature and humidity have an effect on setting and performance of tile adhesives. Tile adhesives dry too fast in high temperatures leaving brittle products, while high moisture levels may decelerate curing. You are advised to check the recommended temperature range for application on your tile adhesive and avoid extreme weather when installing. - Movement of Substrate
If the surface or the substrate upon which the tile is fixed changes in some way, for instance because it expands or contracts as a result of change in temperature or humidity, then its performance may alter. For instance, should the floor beneath the tiles expand or contract as a result of an increase or decrease in temperature with effect to moisture, the tile adhesive may lose its bond and cause the tiles to crack or loosen. - Tile Size and Weight
Another important determining factor is tile size and weight. More extensive or heavier tiles require a stronger adhesive to maintain it in position. Ensure you choose an adhesive that is compatible with the weight and size of the tiles. - Water Exposure
Areas like bathrooms or kitchens must be acquired with a waterproof tile adhesive. Non-waterproof adhesives are applied in those areas that would eventually cause the adhesive to break down due to exposure to water, which would then deteriorate the bonding capacity of the tile and causes them to loosen out from the fixing position.
Conclusion
There are many different factors which can affect the performance of Tile Adhesives starting from surface preparation right through to Environmental Conditions. Taking good care of all these factors guarantees that your tile adhesive will work well, which, in turn, means that you will get a tile installation which stands the test of time. At Dukoll, we offer an excellent choice of tile adhesives adapted to every specific situation.