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
