Tiling in Cold Weather

Winter has well and truly settled in for Australia and projects need to go ahead even if it's cold outside. Below is some helpful tips and hints for tiling and grouting in cold weather to ensure your projects look great for years to come. An exact taken from the LATICRETE Technical Data Sheet on Cold Weather Tiling and Grouting, TDS-1002: Conventional portland cement tile setting beds, thin-set mortars, grouts and cement plasters are often permanently damaged when subject to below freezing temperatures immediately after installation. The water content of a mortar turning into ice often results in portland cement gel structure rupturing with significant loss in strength, flexibility and durability. Subsequent repairs to the damaged work and resulting site delays are extremely costly. There is a simple rule to follow when the temperature is low during installation:  The 8ºC Rule – for every 8ºC below 21ºC, portland cement and epoxy based materials take twice as long to cure. Helpful Hints: 1. Work during warm periods of the day. 2. Ensure that the surface temperature is within the suggested temperature range for the LATICRETE product being used during the installation and cure period. Consult the individual LATICRETE product data sheet and 'How to Install' guide for more information. 3. Tent and heat areas that will be subjected to the elements or freezing temperatures during installation and cure periods. Continue reading the Cold Weather Tiling and Grouting TDS-1002 here. Contact us on 1800 331 012 to discuss your next project, arrange a demo, request FREE samples or for technical support or contact us here.