Granite adhesive for stone to stone bonding
Granite adhesives are structural adhesives made specifically for joining granite slabs, tiles and blocks together in an invisible manner. These adhesives have been specially formulated to work with the unique properties of granite including a high density and low porosity as well as being very rigid and durable thanks to their mineral stability. Professional-grade granite adhesives create highly durable, strong and aesthetically pleasing bonds that will serve as a part of the supporting material for the installation of granite, splicing of seams, repairing cracks in granite as well as strengthening granite structures used in architecture and landscape engineering.
Two-part epoxy resin adhesives and modified polyester resin adhesives dominate the vast majority of qualified adhesive stone-to-stone bonding applications in professional stone construction; epoxy-based formulas are the industry standard for structural load-bearing connecting applications. High performance epoxy granite adhesives exhibit outstanding tensile and shear strength, providing bonded joints that are integral and not brittle, therefore, holding up well to structural stresses, deformations in slabs and mechanical impact from everyday use. Premium granite bonding adhesives also display superior tolerance to environmental factors than many other types of adhesives by providing exceptional resistance to water, chemicals and aging. In addition, exterior-grade adhesives are able to expand and contract with extreme temperature variations, maintain stability after receiving an extended period of UV rays, and resist cyclical moisture erosion; thereby eliminating the possibility of bond failure, premature yellowing, or cracking as a result of extended periods outdoors, such as the installation of granite curtain walls, landscape stone structures, or exterior step installations.
Modified polyester granite adhesives are commonly used for structural decorative bonding of non-load-bearing applications and to provide the quickest repair solutions. They cure rapidly at room temperature; can be matched to varying shades of granite; and are very cost effective; therefore, they are ideally used for filling small seams and for cosmetic repairs on interior granite countertops, floor slabs and decorative stone items. Although modified polyester granite adhesives can be slightly brittle and have a higher rate of yellowing than other types of adhesives when exposed to outdoor conditions for long periods, their performance in the construction of lightweight stones used for interior applications is satisfactory.
The success of stone-to-stone granite adhesive bonding relies on both the quality of the adhesive and the use of standardized construction methods. Preparation of the bonding surface is critical for successful adhesion; the surfaces must be properly cleaned and prepared; removal of dust, oils, and loose stones will allow for complete adhesive penetration as well as create tight bonding interfaces. The application of a uniform coating of the adhesive and having the adhesive at a reasonable gap will help eliminate the possibility of creating hollow bonded surfaces or building up excessive glue, and allowing the adhesive sufficient time to cure or harden will ensure that it achieves its maximum bond strength, thereby minimizing the chances of having hidden issues such as weak bonded joints or separated slabs.
With the dual benefits of structural stability and decorative compatibility, granite adhesives for professional granite stone-to-stone installation will fully maintain the natural texture of granite and its overall aesthetic appeal. Granite adhesives for professional granite stone-to-stone bonding are fully applicable to all indoor and outdoor granite applications including architectural decoration, municipal landscape and furniture for stone, and will provide a long-term, stable and safe means for bonding granite structures together to one another.
