Granite glue for tile installation
A Comprehensive Resource on Tile Adhesives for Granite.
Granite tile adhesives or granite adhesives refer to specialized adhesives that are designed to provide a very strong bond between granite tiles and structures. They provide a long-term, stable bond between granite tiles and the surface they are applied to, whether they be used with interior or exterior tile applications. Unlike traditional tile adhesives, granite adhesives have been specifically formulated for the characteristics of granite, such as low water absorption, high density, and heavy weight, and can thus withstand all of the environmental conditions that can occur, such as variations in temperature, humidity, and mechanical loading.
There are three main types of granite tile adhesives that can be utilized with granite tile applications, which include 1.) Epoxy adhesives, 2.) Polymer-modified cement-based adhesives, and 3.) Flexible adhesives. The most widely used type of granite adhesive is polymer-modified cement-based adhesive, which provides a high bond strength, is very simple to apply (by adding water), and provides a strong bond to almost any substrate (including concrete, plaster, and screed). While epoxy adhesives are typically more expensive than polymer-modified cement-based adhesives, epoxy adhesives usually provide outstanding bond strength and have a high level of resistance to water and chemical damage; therefore, epoxy adhesives are ideal for use in wet conditions such as in bathrooms and around swimming pools.Flexible adhesive (which has been enhanced with polymers) absorbs stresses (thermal expansion and contraction) from outside the home or areas where there are radiant heat floors.
When the installer of the granite adhesive is installing the adhesive there are three critical procedures that should be followed. The first procedure is to prepare the substrate. Make sure the substrate is clean, flat (not uneven) and free (not covered) from oils, dust, and any other debris (loose). If the substrate is very porous, it may be better to prime it, this will actually allow the adhesive not to dry too quickly.
The second procedure is to prepare the adhesive. The adhesive will need to be mixed correctly to ensure that the adhesive is mixed correctly, so read the instructions on the adhesive package for the right mixing ratios of adhesive to water. Once you have added the water (clean) to the adhesive, you will immediately need to mix well until the adhesive is a smooth, lump-free mixture. This will allow for maximum consistency of the adhesive. After mixing, let the adhesive rest for 5 minutes, and then re-mix before using.
When you actually are applying the adhesive, you will need to apply the adhesive on both the granite tile and the substrate using a notched trowel and you will want to apply evenly across the entire substrate. When using granite tiles larger than 24 inches square it is best to double apply adhesive on both the surface of the tile and the surface of the substrate to ensure that you have complete coverage; this will also help to avoid an adhesive “hollow spot” under the surface of the tile.
Proper cure (drying) of the granite adhesive is a key to ensuring that you have a strong bond, therefore, do not disturb the granite tiles for 24 to 48 hours after installation (or apply grout until the adhesive has completely cured) and you should not modify any aspect of the adhesive (including adding anything); this will cause a significant reduction in the strength and durability of the adhesive.
If done properly you will not experience any of the following problems with your granite tile installation: popping off, cracking or water damage. Therefore, ensure that you obtain the correct adhesive and follow the correct installation steps to maintain the aesthetics and integrity of the granite tile installation for many, many years to come.
