Using Tile Adhesive Effectively

By Author: Andrew Richards
Total Articles: 32
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There are several ways to use tile adhesives - a glue especially designed to bond and protect tiles from the environmental stresses and strains of being used in various places that involve water or being walked on.

Tile adhesive is not only high impact but designed to make sure that there is no fungus or other damaging organisms growing underneath or around the tiles themselves, making it the ideal glue that can also be used as grout, but it's important to follow a few key tips to get the most out of it.

- Clean effectively, and wait for the area to dry or set - often people either forget to clean, or don't clean fully, thinking that it doesn't matter because there will be tiles on the walls, or more importantly, they clean, and don't wait for the cleaning solution to dry fully before applying adhesive.

- Ensure the room is the right temperature and is as dehumidified as possible - but don't make it too dry - it's difficult to do so in bathrooms and other high moisture rooms, but it's important to make sure conditions are optimal before applying the tiles and glue. That way, you can be sure it sets correctly ...
... without becoming brittle or water logged, and sets as quick as it is supposed to.

- Apply it according to instructions, using the correct tools. Tile adhesive should be applied quickly, with grooves to allow the glue to set correctly - you shouldn't apply too much of it, but at the same time, you should make sure you're not applying too little. It might take a bit to get the hang of, but once you do, applying and setting the tiles should be far easier. Practice makes perfect though, so it might be a good idea to get some scrap wood (plywood for example and practice seating tiles correctly including spacers.

- Once it's in situ, try not to move the tiles - that will break the seal between the tile adhesive and the tiles/wall. If you do this, it won't set as effectively.

- Allow it to cure fully before using the room, if at all possible. This will protect you from premature adhesive failure. As this is the primary reason tiles become unstuck, it's important to make sure that you allow the tile adhesive to set fully before exposing it to other environmental problems.

Following these tips will allow you to make the most out of the tile adhesive and allow you to create a floor, wall or ceiling, and will give you the opportunity to ensure that you're getting the most out of your adhesive and the installation you've created.

Tile adhesive lasts several years - in fact in some cases, it lasts until people choose to redecorate, so installing your tiles are installed correctly can give you peace of mind for years to come.

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