Tile Adhesive

Choosing the correct tile adhesive is crucial in getting the job done properly. There is a multitude of brands to choose from in Perth so buying the right one is essential. Tile adhesive selection is paramount in the purchasing journey.

C2S1ET: What does it all mean? Is it even important?

C: Means Cementitious adhesive containing cement, aggregate, and organic additive.

1: This means the adhesive has passed the minimum pass level tests that are mandatory for that adhesive type. It represents the basic standard requirement. Any adhesive without at least a C1 classification should be avoided at all costs.

2: This means the adhesive has passed the same tests as 1 and or other applicable tests, but at higher pass levels. In other words, this adhesive exceeds the basic requirement needed. Look for this C2 rating when making your purchase.

The second part of the code has more to do with open times and slip resistance.

S1: Simply means the adhesive has met the requirements for an adhesive with deformability >2.50mm & <5.00mm. It tells us this adhesive has a flexible nature.

S2 means the adhesive has met the requirements for an adhesive with deformability >5.00mm. As with S1, this class of tile adhesive has a higher level of flexibility. This type of tile adhesive is suitable for environments such as framed walls and floors where there is a high level of movement, where floor substrates change from concrete to frame or where the natural ground is subject to movements like clay soils.

Adhesive Ardex X17
RLA MASTIK, the best all round adhesive

How important is it to choose the right tile adhesive? It is critical to get the right product for your individual needs.

Rubber vs polymer tile adhesive

It is a common preconception that “Rubber” translates to flexibility. After all, rubber is flexible right? so it must mean the tile adhesive is also flexible. This is simply not true. The rubber component present in the adhesive comes in tiny round particles within the mix. The rubber in these adhesives simply improves the workability and the coverage of the tile adhesive. It does nothing to improve flexibility. Tilers love the fluffy mix of Rubber Modified adhesive, making it easy to spread and clean. While a little more expensive due to the rising cost of oil, these adhesives can offer good coverage in certain situations, but not all. For example, these adhesives are not suitable for external projects such as pools and alfresco.

Polymer on the other hand does increase the tile adhesives flexibility. It offers additional “Non-Slump” properties and is well suited for the installation of large size porcelain tiles and marble. Polymer-based adhesive is also suitable for internal and external settings. The lack of the rubber compound makes many Polymer adhesives more affordable.

At Ceramics International both Rubber Modified and Polymer Adhesives can be purchased at below trade rates.

Our ARDEX X17 is a Rubber Modified white cement-based tile adhesive. It comes in bright yellow bags and weighs 20kg. This tile adhesive is for internal use only.

Our ARDEX X17 is a Polymer Modified white cement-based tile adhesive in green bags of 20kg. It proves to be most popular with all tilers and is more affordable than the Addflextra.

Both tile adhesives can be purchased online. Delivery can be arranged or select Click and Collect in the checkout.

Adhesive Ardex X7 20kg
Click and Collect the RLA MASTIK

Non-Slumping adhesive: Slumping explained and what does it have to do with adhesive?

It is critical to select a “Non-Slump” adhesive when buying large format tiles (bigger than 300×600) in particular the popular 600x1200mm. Tilers use notched trowels to apply adhesive to the back of the tile and in some cases also to the floor. Once the tile is cemented and bedded down, it is prone to “sinking” into the glue and can fall uneven, creating ridges in the grout lines. This sinking effect is called “Slumping”. It is where tiles are laid level but sink and end up out of level after a short time.

One way to combat tiles slumping out of level, is to use wedges called leveling wedges & clips. The other way is to use “Non-Slump” tile adhesive such as ARDEX X7 adhesive. Tiles will float on the adhesive bed and not sink. Giving you a flat even surface. Use a Non-Slump adhesive together with leveling clips for a perfect finish.

If you are not sure about what adhesive to select, pop into our store and chat with our friendly staff, who will be delighted to assist.

Maxi Grab

Maxisil has launched a new ready to apply adhesive. All you need is a silicone gun applicator. Maxi Grab is an instant adhesive that holds up to 360kg making it a high strength product. It can be used on many surfaces including glass, brick, stone, and concrete. This is the easiest way to adhere not only tiles but almost everything else. Order MAXI GRAB online and save.