Tile installation is one of the most important stages of construction. To install tiles on various surfaces, cement mortar or special adhesives are used. Depending on which method you choose for installing the tiles, the drying time of the floor tiles will vary. In this article, we’ll discuss which method increases the speed of work and ensures that the tiles adhere better and faster to the floor.
What is Tile Adhesive?
Tile adhesive is a type of construction adhesive used for attaching tiles to floors and walls. It is made from a combination of materials such as cement, resin, and polymer, offering a very high adhesive strength. Due to its unique and distinct properties, it has become a widely used product in the construction industry. Compared to cement mortar, tile adhesive has much higher adhesion power. Unlike cement, it doesn't produce dust and mess, and since the drying time is shorter, it helps speed up the process.
Key Points to Consider When Using Tile Adhesive
If you're familiar with tile adhesive and its benefits and want to use it, pay attention to the following points:
Choose the Right Adhesive
When buying tile adhesive and porcelain tiles, consider the type of tile and where it will be installed. Also, factor in the environmental conditions and choose flexible adhesives with suitable curing times based on your needs.
Surface Preparation
Before starting, the surface must be free of dust, grease, and dirt. Sweep the area thoroughly and clean it with a damp cloth. If the surface is uneven, smooth it with cement or filler. If there are cracks or damage, repair the surface with restoration materials. Apply a primer layer to ensure the adhesive sticks more evenly to the surface.
Mixing the Adhesive
If you want to reduce the drying time of floor tiles, mix the tile adhesive carefully. Follow the instructions on the adhesive container. Slowly add the adhesive powder to water, mixing it until it reaches a smooth, paste-like texture. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to remove air bubbles, then stir again before use. The adhesive should be used within the time specified by the manufacturer (about 2 hours). If the working time exceeds this limit, the adhesive's bonding strength decreases.
Applying the Adhesive
Spread the adhesive on the surface using a notched trowel. The thickness should be adjusted according to the type of tile and surface. Place the tiles on the adhesive, and after leveling them, press down to ensure they stick properly.
Additional Tips for Using Tile Adhesive
The initial curing time for tile adhesive is typically between 24 and 48 hours. During this time, avoid walking on the tiles. After the tiles have dried, fill the joints between them with grout. Once the job is done, clean the area and allow the tiles to fully adhere to the surface.
If you are working in winter, use heating tools to speed up the drying process.
Safety Tips for Using Tile Adhesive
When using tile adhesive, it's important to follow safety guidelines:
- Wear gloves and a mask to avoid direct contact with the adhesive and inhaling any harmful particles, preventing skin or respiratory issues.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- If the adhesive comes into contact with your skin or eyes, wash the area with plenty of water immediately.
- If you lack experience, seek help from professionals.
- Use proper tools like clips and levels to ensure precision.
- Store leftover adhesive in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality.
Benefits of Tile Adhesive
As previously mentioned, using tile adhesive instead of traditional cement mortar has several benefits. One major advantage is the reduced drying time, which speeds up the installation process. Other benefits include:
- Faster installation
- High durability, even in challenging conditions like earthquakes
- Lightweight, which helps reduce the building’s overall weight
- Suitable for all types of surfaces
- Waterproofing and insulating properties against moisture and heat
- Anti-vibration qualities in building facades
Why Use Tile Adhesive?
In the past, cement mortars were used to install tiles, which often caused complications. However, with the introduction of tile adhesive, the process has become much simpler and more efficient. Adhesives, along with grout, are now a superior alternative to traditional methods for both tile installation and filling tile joints.
Tile adhesive is easier to use compared to mixing mortar, and it significantly reduces the drying time for floor tiles.
Factors Affecting Adhesive Drying Time
As mentioned earlier, tile adhesive dries faster than cement mortar. Typically, it takes 24 to 48 hours for the adhesive to set, but this depends on environmental conditions. Some factors that can affect drying time include:
Humidity: In environments with low humidity and high temperatures (up to 35°C), the adhesive dries faster. If you want to speed up the drying time, increase the room temperature using heaters.
Type of Adhesive: High-quality adhesives with strong components dry faster. On the other hand, lower-quality adhesives take longer to dry and have weaker bonding strength, so it’s best to invest in a reputable brand.
Conclusion
For those involved in tile installation, the drying time of the floor tiles is a crucial factor. If the adhesive dries faster, the project can be completed sooner. To speed up the drying process, use high-quality adhesive, maintain a proper working environment, and if necessary, seek advice from experienced professionals.