Cement Vs Tile Adhesives: What Works Better?
15th Jan, 2024
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When it comes to tiling a new home, understanding how to install wall tiles is as important as choosing the right tile colour and design. Unlike floor surfaces, where gravity keeps tiles in place, vertical tiling brings in factors like slippage, load-bearing concerns, and precise alignment. This is why choosing the right wall tile adhesive becomes critical to the success and durability of your installation.
Whether you’re renovating walls or designing a new space, this guide will clear your doubts about tile installation and wall tile adhesives.
Vertical tile installation needs to overcome the constant pull of gravity. Traditional cement mortar or standard adhesives often fail to provide a consistent grip, resulting in slippage during curing or insufficient bonding. The answer lies in specialised wall tile adhesives formulated for vertical applications, which offer:
1. Anti-slip properties: Prevents tiles from sliding down during or after the adhesive sets.
2. High initial grab: Supports the weight of the tile immediately after placement, reducing the continuous need for manual adjustment.
3. Extended open time: Gives professionals the flexibility to align and reposition tiles, ensuring precise levelling.
Choosing the right adhesive depends on tile specification and project location. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Tile size and weight: Heavy slabs or large-format wall tiles exert more vertical pressure, demanding high-strength adhesives with reinforced anti-slip properties.
2. Tile porosity: Porous ceramic tiles absorb adhesive differently compared to vitrified tiles, glass mosaics, or natural stone. The adhesive should be compatible with the tile’s absorption level.
3. Location of application: Internal walls require bonding strength and water resistance. External walls demand formulations resilient to weather, UV exposure, and thermal expansion.
Product choice directly impacts installation quality and long-term performance. Roff’s product range is designed for professional-grade wall applications, ensuring your specified finish lasts as long as your design vision:
1. Roff Non-Skid Adhesive (NSA)
This is a non-slip adhesive tailored for internal wall installations like kitchens and bathrooms, ensuring superior initial grab and reduced tile slippage.
2. Roff Extrofix
This is a premium adhesive for external installations, providing weather resistance and strength for facades, cladding, and exterior walls.
By using these specialised solutions, professionals can reduce common failures like slipping, hollow spots, and detachment.
Moreover, since vertical tile installation is highly technical and complex, you can also use the Roff Tile Adhesive Selector to find the right adhesive for your specific needs, as well as connect directly with the Roff team for guidance.
Neglecting proper wall tile adhesive can result in maintenance issues and aesthetic inconsistencies in your interiors. Roff’s performance-tested adhesives increase the success and lifespan of your tile installation.
With Roff’s adhesive range, you get a variety of tile adhesive options that have been rigorously tested to withstand the toughest conditions. Choose wisely and experience the assurance of knowing your tiles will stay securely in place for years to come.
