Selecting the Right Adhesive

We Know the Real Capabilities of Our Products

An article by Fred Gray, LATICRETE Australia Technical Services Manager, provides educational insights to gauging the suitability of an adhesive for individual installations.

"It's important to recognise that the performance requirements and classifications in AS/ISO13007 describe a select range of physical characteristics of an adhesive that can't be solely relied on when it comes to the selection and use of tile adhesives for the wide variety of projects we encounter. They are a starting point for the most part. There are other characteristics you should consider, like compressive strength, shear capacity and immersed installation abilities to name a few that would prove useful in making an appropriate selection. 

I have noticed a growing trend over the years where tile adhesive selections are being determined solely by its classification and designation as outlined in AS/ISO13007.1, with the implication that its classification and designation alone is sufficient to make an appropriate choice for a given project. That it is sufficient to determine what product can be used for a project without investigating the manufacturers information regarding the products features and limitations. For instance a specifier may simply ask for a C2TES1 adhesive for a driveway installation. Assuming tile and substrate compatibility, whilst many C2TES1 adhesives may be suitable for this type of installation, some adhesives will not be and a risk exists, especially if it does not have, say, the compressive strength for such service conditions.

The specification and selection of tile adhesives can be very complex and requires more than a reliance on its AS/ISO13007 classification and general industry guides to gauge its suitability for a given project. Evaluating the installation environment, service requirements of the installation, tiles to be installed and the effects from the tiling background is an important part of the process in establishing the right adhesive properties for a project. It is important that selections are made together with the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations and documentation to ensure the best possible outcome is achieved. After all, we make the adhesives and have far more knowledge about the true capabilities of our products, especially given we tested our products above and beyond the requirements of the AS/ISO13007 standard. LATICRETE are able to share a greater understanding of what works because of our history, depth of experience and a unique knowledge of our product that can’t be translated in a series of numbers on a bag.

Involving LATICRETE in the specification process ensures you get the warranties or guarantees that the selection are fit for purpose! Ask for a written specification for your next project to get that locked in."

For more information on LATICRETE permanent trouble free installation products, training, or technical advice, contact your local LATICRETE representative on 1800 331 012 - or email sales@laticrete.com.au