Best Types of Ceramic Anchoring Methods
The best method for anchoring ceramic tiles is the double-wing (two-leg) anchor. These anchors are made of stainless steel and have two "wings" or fins. The main function of these fins is to guide grout deeper behind the tile to enhance adhesion. If you're interested in learning about the different ceramic anchoring methods and understanding why anchoring is necessary, keep reading.
What Is Ceramic Anchoring?
One of the most reliable ways to secure ceramic or stone tiles on facades and prevent them from falling is mechanical anchoring. In multi-story building façades, anchoring is used to ensure safety. An anchor is a kind of mechanical fastener for cladding materials like stone or porcelain ceramics. Usually, these are small metal pieces attached to the back of the tile, improving its overall stability.
These metal anchors help prevent tiles or stones from detaching or falling off building facades. The firm bond they create increases the safety and durability of the façade. Anchors are designed in a way that eliminates issues related to tile installation and maintenance. They can bear significant weight and are cost-effective for the performance they offer. Metal anchors are also earthquake-resistant and suitable for various types of construction projects.
Why Is Ceramic Anchoring Necessary?
Nowadays, porcelain ceramic tiles are commonly used for façades. However, due to their low water absorption, they can detach from the mortar layer during earthquakes, temperature fluctuations, or physical impact. This may lead to tiles falling and causing property damage or injuries. To prevent this, even when using adhesive methods, an additional mechanical anchoring system is often applied for added safety.
Installing anchors does not take much time, and skilled workers can create a groove using a grinder and place the anchor securely. Hand grinders and specialized machines are used to cut grooves into the back of the ceramic tile where the anchors are attached.
Types of Ceramic Anchoring Methods
Now that we know what ceramic anchoring is and why it’s done, it’s time to choose the best method from among the available options. Below are the most common anchoring methods:
1. Z Anchor
In the Z-anchor method, a groove is first cut into the back of the tile using a stone-cutting machine. The anchor resembles the shape of the letter Z. After placing the tile in its position, mortar is applied behind it to hold it in place.
2. Butterfly Anchor
This is the second method. First, a 45-degree groove is created on the back of the tile. The butterfly-shaped anchor is then inserted into the groove. Finally, mortar is applied to bind the anchor and hold the tile firmly in place.
3. Ceramic Anchor (with stone blocks)
This method involves attaching four small stone blocks (each about 5 cm wide and 1 cm thick) to the back of the ceramic tile. These act as anchor pads. Then, steel wires are tied to the blocks to help secure the tile.
4. Wire Anchor
In the wire anchoring method, galvanized steel wire is used in a crisscross pattern. Installers cut small grooves into both ends of the ceramic tile and pass 2 mm thick wires through these grooves in a diagonal pattern. The wires grip into the mortar and hold the tile in place. After installation, the visible grooves are filled with white cement for a clean finish.
5. Double-Wing Anchor (Two-Leg Anchor)
As mentioned earlier, this is considered the best anchoring method. It involves using a stainless-steel wire anchor with two fins or wings. These wings are vertically attached to the back of the ceramic tile using powder adhesive for porcelain. The tile is then ready for grouting and final installation.
How to Install Ceramic Anchors
To create a strong bond between porcelain tiles and the building structure (whether iron, concrete, etc.), metal anchors are used. The steps are as follows:
First, cut grooves into the back of the tile using a grinder or other tool.
Then, glue the anchors into place using tile adhesive.
Once the adhesive is dry, position the tile onto the wall or façade and align it properly.
Although installing ceramic anchors requires expertise and precision, this method offers fast installation and strong resistance to natural elements such as rain or earthquakes. Anchors are also highly resistant to acids, alkalis, and other chemicals, and they reduce water absorption into the façade.
Final Thoughts
If you're unsure which anchoring method is best for your ceramic tiles, review this guide carefully. We've discussed the butterfly anchor, Z anchor, double-wing anchor, ceramic anchor with blocks, and wire anchor. Each has its own strengths and applications, so you can choose the most suitable one based on your project’s needs.