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Imagine that you have finalised the tiling layout, chosen your tiles, and even visualised the final look of your rooms. But soon after execution, your tiling project starts wearing off, leaving you frustrated with tile and flooring issues. While your first instinct is to question the quality of tiles or the surface underneath, the real problem often lies in the types of adhesive you choose. Even the finest tiles can fail and ruin the entire installation if you do not use the best adhesive for tiles.
If your tiles aren’t performing like they should, maybe it’s time to adopt these flooring installation tips and check your adhesives. Here are five signs to look for and what to do instead:
One of the clearest signs of problematic adhesive during flooring installation is low stickiness or grab, which prevents tiles from adhering properly during installation. Another red flag is if the adhesive dries too quickly, giving you less time to adjust tiles before it sets.
What to do: Avoid using adhesives with quick drying times unless the surface requires it. Go for high-performance adhesives that offer extended open times. Roff Non-Skid Adhesive (NSA) or Roff Vitrofix, for example, provide superior grab and extended open time, ensuring tiles stay in place as you work.
If your newly installed tiles produce a hollow or echoing sound when you walk on them, it could indicate poor adhesive performance or that the adhesive dried too quickly before it could bond properly with the tiles. This can cause gaps or weak spots, gradually leading to loose tiles that may shift or come loose over time.
What to do: Choose a high-quality adhesive designed for the specific surface and tile material. For example, Roff NSA is perfect for internal applications, offering strong adhesion and durability for various surfaces.
Tiles that move when stepped on or develop cracks shortly after installation suggest the adhesive isn’t providing adequate grip or flexibility. This can happen if the adhesive lacks flexibility or is not suitable for the type of tile used, especially since tile cracking often occurs due to temperature fluctuations rather than pressure from stepping.
What to do: For tiles prone to shifting or cracking, look for adhesives with good flexibility and proper setting times. For example, Roff Extrofix is ideal for external applications, providing excellent bonding strength and flexibility to handle temperature fluctuations and moisture exposure.
If your tiles appear uneven or there are noticeable height differences between adjacent tiles (lippage), it’s often a sign of improper installation. This usually happens when tiles are placed too close together without leaving adequate gaps, preventing proper alignment and adjustment. Poor application technique can worsen the issue, especially if the adhesive layer is uneven.
What to do: Avoid installing tiles without joints — always leave proper gaps between tiles by using spacers and fill them with Roff Starlike for a smooth, even finish and long-lasting results.
The performance and durability of your tile and flooring depend on a strong adhesive foundation. While non-branded, cheaper adhesives might seem like a good deal, they lack the performance needed to withstand wear and tear, leading to early failure, costly repairs, and potentially ruined tiles.
For homeowners seeking reliable, long-term results, Roff’s range of adhesives, including Roff NSA, Roff Extrofix, and Roff Masterfix, offers the perfect solutions for every installation challenge. Roff’s range of adhesives is performance-tested and engineered to fix the root causes of flooring installation issues. Additionally, it increases the lifespan of your tile and flooring. Choose wisely to ensure your tiles stay secure and flawless for the long run.
