Tile adhesive is an indispensable companion of any cosmetic repair. Is there at least one dwelling today without tiles in the bathroom? Products are lined with floors, walls, ceilings, with their help, interior zones are distinguished, masonry is used for decorative purposes in living rooms.
The durability of the cladding, its appearance, as well as financial costs depend on the choice of the correct adhesive composition, because buying the wrong product is fraught with alterations. Each type of tile requires the use of a specific preparation - sometimes a substance with enhanced adhesion properties is needed, in other cases a universal composition is sufficient.
In the article, we will understand in detail the varieties of tile adhesives, learn how to choose the right product, and also rank the best brands on the current market.
Content:
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Application area
Laying is a slow and meticulous process.
There is no single answer to the question of which product is the best, because there are a lot of varieties. Some are used for interior decoration. And even here there is a gradation: compositions for rooms with a high level of humidity, preparations that resist deformation loads, products with high-quality adhesion for heavy tiles.
Another large group of products is designed for outdoor decoration. These preparations should be distinguished by increased resistance to environmental influences, they should correspond to the type of tile, for example, paving, for cladding buildings.
Of course, this method cannot be called economical, on the other hand, a surface with tile adhesive instead of standard gypsum-cement plaster will provide excellent adhesion to future clinker tiles (one of the heaviest types of decorative material). In order to reduce costs, it is possible to treat with the substance only the surface on which it is planned to lay the tiles.
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Product varieties
Consider what tile adhesive is, depending on its composition.
Based on cement
cement-based substance
The product is sold dry and is one of the cheapest products in its field. 85% of its composition is cement, the remaining 10% is sand and 5% is special additives that provide adhesion. It is recommended to use it as a replacement for the usual putty.
It is used for interior and exterior finishing work, as the drug perfectly tolerates severe frosts, humidity and hot weather. It is suitable for horizontal and vertical surfaces, preferably with a concrete base. Such products are called universal, they are recommended for tiles of small size and masonry on simple bases.
Acrylic mixtures with the addition of modified resins and mineral additives
White acrylic preparation
The mixture is called dispersion, it is distinguished by better adhesion, enhanced properties of tolerance to different microclimates, and durability. Composed of organic compounds that provide viscosity, as well as mineral ingredients to improve physical properties. It adheres well to plasterboard surfaces, concrete walls, even old tile layers.
The drug is sold ready-made, elastic creamy consistency provides plasticity and ease of use. It does not slip, does not “float”, working time is 35-45 minutes. The color is usually white, which allows it to be used for laying mosaics, light ceramic or clinker tiles, artificial stone, majolica.
polyurethane
Product for difficult surfaces
Consists of foaming polymers and resins that provide viscosity and stabilization. Substances from this group are highly elastic and very durable. On such a mixture, you can safely glue ceiling tiles, moreover, heavy ones.
The tool is used for laying on such complex surfaces as wood, fabric, metal, plastic, glass, rubber. Products are frost-resistant, not afraid of moisture, wear-resistant, acid-resistant. Such a mastic is expensive, but it justifies its price with high adhesive properties.
Epoxy based
Both components are mixed at the same time
These are solutions consisting of two bases that are mixed before use. When reacted, they form a super strong mixture that can be used even on substrates with high vibration, risk of shrinkage or deformation. Reliable waterproof qualities allow laying in pools, laundries.
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What qualities should a good product have?
Clinker tile laying
What are the criteria for quality adhesives?
- Plastic. Not fluidity, namely the soft elasticity of the composition indicates quality. Such a preparation does not crack after drying, it completely spreads over the tile, filling its structure. In contact with the wall, air cavities and unaffected areas are excluded
- Elasticity after hardening. This parameter allows the cladding to withstand the vibration of buildings, slight deformation, slight shrinkage, shaking
- Working interval. This is the period of time that is given to the finisher for corrective manipulations. The longer this segment, the more opportunities to change the position of the facing material
- The intensity of adhesion or the strength and reliability of adhesion. With a high-quality adhesive, the tile does not slip, the wall does not require additional preparation. The parameter is important on complex surfaces
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Decorative tiles
So, we figured out what the composition of the grasping preparations are, what properties a good product should have. What else do you need to pay attention to before buying?
- Tile. What matters is the material from which it is made, color, and size. For example, for light tiles, you need to buy a white mass so as not to spoil the neatness of the appearance.In the parameters, the thickness and area of \u200b\u200ba tile unit are important
The larger the size, the heavier it is in weight, which means that the glue should be more tenacious. According to experts, the thickness of the applied mortar should be equal to the thickness of the tile. This will ensure proper and durable fixation..
The material of manufacture is also important to consider. For soft or gypsum tiles, you can buy a universal composition - they are light in weight. But cement, clinker or artificial stone should be planted on a more durable retainer.
- Surface. It can be simple - not afraid of deformation, strong, even. These include concrete, brick walls, cement screeds. The second type is a complex base: wood, drywall, metal, plastic, glass
Tiles in the bathroom
These surfaces are subject to vibration, they are fragile, brittle, afraid of high loads.
- Consistency. The fixative can be liquid (creamy) or dry. The latter must be diluted independently, strictly observing the proportions indicated in the instructions.
- Foundation properties and microclimate. Depending on the environment, a frost-resistant, heat-resistant, moisture-resistant, quick-drying, acid-resistant or universal preparation is purchased.
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Which is better cement or tile adhesive?
Choose between special mix or plain cement
This question worries many independent finishers. After all, any professional master will say that it is better to purchase a special tile retainer. The main argument in favor of cement is its low cost, while its reliability and lack of risk speak in defense of the finished mixture.
Learn everything you need to know about both tools in the table below:
| Parameter | Cement | tile adhesive |
|---|---|---|
| Composition constancy | Mixing of the solution is required, and the accuracy of the proportions between different batches cannot be guaranteed; | Each jar contains an absolutely identical mixture; |
Cooking process | The composition must be prepared, the ingredients must be correlated independently; | Sold in a ready-to-use form or contains instructions for mixing the components; |
Price | More profitable than special glue; | It costs more than a cement mixture; |
Wall preparation | Cement fills cracks and surface irregularities, does not require additional preparation of walls; | The base is leveled, puttied, primed; |
Consistency | Crumbly, flowing; | Plastic, malleable; |
| If desired and due skill of the finisher, you can combine both substances. For example, level the wall with cement mortar, and spread a universal fixative on the inner surface of the tile. Never add the latter to the former. You will violate the technically approved composition of the product, ruining the quality of the adhesion. | ||
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Balcony - a room that is characterized by changes in temperature and humidity
Let's take a look at which fixative is best suited for all types of bases. It is important to consider the location of the masonry in relation to climatic conditions. Important factors are the properties of the surface itself.
For outdoor decoration
External cladding
The solution must withstand the following aspects:
- Aggressive operating conditions
- Sudden changes in humidity
- Wide temperature range (depending on climate: from frost to heat)
- UV exposure
- Influence of wind, hail, rain, snow
- Outside, there is a higher risk of mechanical damage to tiles
Choose a product that is resistant to the above factors, with high adhesion. Keep in mind that for a porch or basement, it is desirable to find a substance with increased hydrophobic characteristics.
For interior cladding
Imitation brickwork indoors
Inside the home, you can use a universal remedy, with the exception of rooms with high humidity. Consider the type of tile, its size and the features of the surface on which you are going to install.
For bathrooms and kitchens
Tiling in the bathroom
Here it is better to purchase an elastic dispersion or polyurethane solution with enhanced setting, which is not afraid of humidity and temperature fluctuations. The composition must withstand strong tensile loads. Make sure that the product contains fungicidal additives against fungus and mold.
For oven or fireplace
Universal heat resistant products
Buy a heat-resistant adhesive with high adhesion. A specially developed composition guarantees the complete safety of others - the drug is not combustible, does not spread harmful substances into the air when heated, is highly durable, and is not afraid of sudden temperature changes.
For the pool
Special tool for installing tiles in swimming pools
Choose a product with the highest moisture barrier properties. For example, epoxy mixtures, which, when dried, form a film that is absolutely impervious to moisture.
For floor (for floor heating)
Cement based floor mortar
The floor is subjected to daily stress, so the adhesive must be elastic and ductile. Such a preparation “floats” on vertical walls, but lies on the floor for a very long time, without cracks, breaks and peeling.
If the tile is mounted on a "warm" floor, buy a product with high temperature resistance. It should not emit odors and toxic substances when heated.
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From the assortment of construction chemistry eyes run up
So, choosing one single and the best glue is unprofessional. How to find the best product from the dozens offered in hardware stores? We will rank the best drugs in each category.
Universal Mixes
Bergauf Keramik PRO
| Litokol Litoflex K80 | Volma Ceramic | Bergauf Keramik PRO | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal tile adhesive | |||
Photo |  |  |  |
Manufacturer country | Italy | Russia | Germany (Russian production) |
Compound | Cement base with synthetic resins | cement composition | Cement-sand base |
Advantages | Used for exterior and interior decoration; | The viability of the finished mass - 3 hours; | Elasticity of seams; |
| Plastic and elastic; | Suitable for laying small and medium-sized porcelain tiles; | Securely holds heavy tiles; | |
| High adhesion; | Not afraid of moisture; | Temperature range from -50°С to - +70°С; | |
| Hydrophobic; | Frost resistant. | moisture resistant | |
| eco friendly | |||
Flaws | High price | Only suitable for simple bases. | The product should be applied in a thick layer; |
| The working interval is only 20 minutes. | |||
Peculiarities | Suitable for plasterboard partitions, concrete walls; | Can be used for exterior cladding; | Suitable for underfloor heating, bathroom cladding. |
| Can be used for underfloor heating | Used for walls and floors. | ||
Price, rubles | 222 (5 kg) | 191 (25 kg) | 96 (5 kg). |
Compositions with enhanced adhesion
Unis Plus manufacturer promises 15 years warranty
| UNIS Plus | Weber Ultra Fix Winter | Ceresit CM 17 Super Flex | |
|---|---|---|---|
| super adhesives | |||
Photo |  |  |  |
Manufacturer country | Russia | France (Russian production) | Germany (Russian production) |
Compound | Cement base, mineral additives | cement composition | Cement-sand base |
Advantages | Perfectly holds heavy finishing materials; | Suitable for outdoor work; | Suitable for the most complex bases subject to deformation, mechanical damage, vibration; |
| Inexpensive; | Reliable adhesion even to waterproofing coatings; | Strong, durable; | |
| Working interval - 3 hours; | Plastic; | Can be glued inside and outside. | |
| You can make changes to the laid tiles within 20 minutes. | Lasting; | ||
| Durable. | |||
Flaws | Many fakes (you should buy glue only in a trusted store) | Not suitable for bituminous surfaces; | High price |
| Very sticky. | |||
Peculiarities | Application on the non-standard bases is possible; | It is allowed to carry out installation even at sub-zero temperatures | The agent is reinforced with microfibers, which make the adhesive resistant to deformation. |
| New tiles can be glued onto the old | |||
Price, rubles | 107 (5 kg) | 720 (25 kg) | 1110 (25 kg) |
Waterproof and heat resistant products
Knauf Fliesen
| UNIS 2000 | Knauf Fliesen | |
|---|---|---|
| waterproof products | ||
Photo |  |  |
Manufacturer country | Russia | Germany (produced in Russia) |
Compound | Cement, sand | cement base |
Advantages | Strong grip; | Plastic and obedient; |
| Dries quickly; | Easy to mix; | |
| The viability of the mass - 3 hours; | Doesn't crawl | |
| Suitable for ceramic, mosaic, artificial stone | Frost-resistant; | |
| eco friendly | ||
Flaws | Strong consumption; | Laying is desirable to carry out in a room with a humid environment; |
| Seams crumble over time | Room temperature must be over +10°C | |
Peculiarities | After 24 hours, it is allowed to walk on the coating | Ideal composition for bathrooms, exterior façade cladding |
Price, rubles | 240 (25 kg) | 270 (25 kg) |
| Terracotta | Leader | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistant products | ||
Photo |  | - |
Manufacturer country | Russia | Russia |
Compound | Includes fireclay kaolin dust, refractory clay, quartz sand, chemical additives | Adhesive mastic made of refractory clay, synthetic and mineral compounds. |
Advantages | High degree of adhesion; | Waterproof; |
| Plastic; | Acceptable consumption - 1 kg per 1 m²; | |
| Economical consumption, as it is applied in a thin layer; | Environmentally friendly mixture; | |
| Withstands temperatures up to 400°C | Apply to any difficult surfaces; | |
| Heat resistance up to 1300 °С | ||
Flaws | High price; | High price; |
| Before laying, the surface must be carefully prepared: level, degrease, clean. Glossy bases are sanded; | Rarely seen in the markets | |
| High consumption - 3 kg per 1 m² | ||
Peculiarities | Designed for surfaces such as aerated concrete, ceramic or silicate bricks, fiber cement sheet | Used for finishing existing stoves and fireplaces; Suitable for facing surfaces in baths, saunas |
Price, rubles | 560 (25 kg) | 430 (6 kg) |
Dispersion adhesives
LitoAkril Plus
Popular mixes in this subgroup are the white LitoAkril Fix for small tiles or glass mosaic laying, as well as the hydrophobic LitoAkril Plus, which can be used in bathroom or kitchen. Italian products provide reliable adhesion, are famous for their durability, economical consumption. Of the minuses, they note that the mass dries quickly and smells unpleasant.
The cost is from 490 rubles for 5 kg of mastic.
Polyurethane compounds
Keracoll Superflex Eco
Pay attention to the brands Keracoll Superflex Eco and Keralastic T. - these are Italian adhesive solutions based on polyurethane, which provide excellent adhesion of tiles to almost any surface. When solidified, the substances are converted into waterproof rubber. The price of the first is from 4800 rubles for an 8 kg bucket, the second - from 5900 rubles for 10 kg.
High-quality tile adhesive does not have to be expensive or have a "fancy" composition paired with a long instruction manual. The most important thing to learn is that the product must fit the selected tile, match the surface, withstand environmental and operating conditions. Carefully study the conditions of the room, read the recommendations for installing your facing material.
Buy fixative only in specialized hardware stores that sell quality products in accordance with the expiration date and proper storage conditions. In such centers there are always consultants who can help, suggest the right solution. With them, you can calculate the right amount of the mixture.
The video offers the point of view of a professional finisher who advises on how to choose the perfect tile fixer:
5 ways to lay tiles. What is the best tile adhesive? Tile adhesive experiment
TOP 15 Best Tile Adhesives: Choosing the Right Product for Bathroom, Underfloor Heating, Porcelain & Outdoor | +Rating
