Flexible tile adhesive: choice, application and common mistakes"
Discover the world of flexible tile adhesive: why it could be an excellent choice for your tile installation.
Are you thinking about laying tiles but don't know which glue to use?
In this article, we'll take a look at flexible tile adhesive and show you why it could be a good choice.
1. What is Flexible Tile Adhesive ?
1.1 Origin and history of Flex tile adhesive
Flexible tile adhesive has established itself over time as one of the best solutions for laying tiles.
1.2 But where does it actually come from?
The first flexible adhesives came onto the market in the 1980s to solve the processing problem with low-pore tile coverings.
The plastic additives in these adhesives allow for stronger adhesion without the mortar having to penetrate the surfacing material.
Flexible adhesives are particularly suitable for fine stoneware tiles and other smooth surfaces, as they ensure better adhesion between the tile and the substrate.
1.3 Application and Use
Simply put, a flexible tile adhesive is an adhesive specially formulated to securely and permanently install tiles. It offers high adhesion and flexibility that make it ideal for a variety of applications.
1.4 More advice for tile processing
2. Types of Flexible Tile Adhesive
There are different types of flexible tile adhesive, each with their own benefits and uses.
2.1 Which one is right for your tile project?
3. Advantages of Flexible Tile Adhesive
- Flexibility and Versatility - One of the main benefits of flexible tile adhesive is its flexibility.
- Durability and Durability - Another major benefit of flexible tile adhesive is its durability.
- Cost-Effective - Last but not least, flexible tile adhesive is also a cost-effective solution.
4. Fields of application of flexible tile adhesive
It is important to mention that flexible adhesives are ideal for heavily loaded floor areas and can also cover freshly laid wet screed with tiles much faster than is possible with purely cement-based adhesive.
The manufacturer Akkit advertises that the flexible adhesive dries very quickly and can only be processed 15 minutes after application.
4.1 Interior
Flexible tile adhesive is ideal for indoor use.
- Living room
- bathroom
- Kitchen
4.2 Exterior
But it is also ideal for outdoor use.
5. How to use Flexible Tile Adhesive correctly?
Flexible tile adhesive is an essential tool for anyone working with tiles.
It allows tiles to be laid safely and durably, especially on substrates that can be subject to movement and deformation.
5.1 Step-by-step instructions on how to apply flexible tile adhesive
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Subfloor Preparation : The first step is to ensure the subfloor is clean, dry and free of loose particles. If necessary, pre-treat or touch up.
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Mixing the Adhesive: Mix the flexible tile adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, this means stirring the powder into clean water until a lump-free paste forms.
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Applying the adhesive: Use a notched trowel to apply the adhesive evenly to the substrate. The size of the teeth of the trowel should match the size of the tiles.
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Laying the tiles: Place the tiles in the still fresh adhesive and press firmly. Pay attention to the correct joint spacing.
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Allow to cure: Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not touch or put weight on the tiles during this time.
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Grouting: After the glue has fully cured, you can fill the gaps with grout.
6. Common mistakes when handling flexible tile adhesive
Although flexible tile adhesive is an essential tool for tiling, there are some pitfalls when using it that should be avoided. Here are some of the most common mistakes made when dealing with flexible tile adhesive.
1. Inadequate substrate preparation
One of the main causes of a bad result is insufficient substrate preparation. The substrate must be clean, dry and free of loose particles. Unevenness should be smoothed out and cracks or holes repaired. An unsuitable surface can lead to the adhesive not adhering properly and the tiles later coming loose.
2. Wrong mix of glue
Flexible tile adhesive comes in powder form and needs to be mixed with water before use.
iynx Tools Experience: A common mistake is to use too much or too little water.
This can result in the adhesive being too thin or too thick, which affects adhesion and can cause problems when laying the tiles.
3. Improper application of the glue
Another common mistake is improper application of the glue. The adhesive should be applied evenly with a notched trowel.
The size of the teeth of the trowel must match the size of the tiles. If too much glue is applied, this can lead to an uneven laying pattern. Using too little glue can result in the tiles not adhering properly.
4. Lack of joint spacing
Tiles must be laid with a suitable joint spacing. If this is neglected, tension can occur in the tile covering, which can lead to cracks or the tiles coming off.
5. Insufficient curing time
The flexible tile adhesive needs time to harden. Rushing this step can cause the tiles to move or come loose. It is important to follow the curing time recommended by the manufacturer.
Our tip: These mistakes can easily be avoided by following the manufacturer's instructions carefully and working with care and patience. Proper use of flexible tile adhesive is key to a durable and aesthetically pleasing tile finish.
7. Where to buy Flexible Tile Adhesive?
There are many places where you can purchase flexible tile adhesive.
- online stores
- Marketplaces like Amazon and Ebay
- hardware store
- tile dealers
- Tool specialist trade
8. Tips for choosing the right flexible tile adhesive
Choosing the right flexible tile adhesive can mean the difference between a durable, professional result and a disappointing tile job.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right product.
1. Type of tiles
Not all tile adhesives are suitable for all tile types.
For example, porous tiles such as terracotta require a different adhesive than less porous tiles such as porcelain stoneware.
Therefore, always check the product description and specifications to ensure that the adhesive is suitable for your tiles.
2. Ground conditions
The condition and material of the substrate play a major role in the choice of flexible tile adhesive.
Some adhesives are specially developed for certain substrates such as concrete, wood or plasterboard. Choose an adhesive that is specifically designed for your substrate to ensure optimal adhesion.
3. Area of application
Whether you're working indoors or outdoors can also affect the type of adhesive you need. Some adhesives are waterproof and freezeproof, making them better suited for outdoor use, while others are better suited for indoor use.
4. Flexibility
The level of flexibility you need depends on the specific needs of your project. If you are working on a surface that is subject to movement and deformation, such as underfloor heating or on balconies, you need a highly flexible adhesive.
iynx Tools Tip:Use the right tile tools for the ideal processing of the tile adhesive.
9. Conclusion - Choosing the right flexible tile adhesive is a bit time-consuming.
In conclusion, flexible tile adhesive is an excellent choice for almost any tile installation.
However, various aspects must be considered when making the selection. Get enough information before you buy. It can always be worth consulting an expert.