Clinker tile adhesive: selection rules

Clinker tiles have established themselves as a reliable and aesthetic material for exterior and interior decoration. But in view of the special conditions in which this material is in the process of operation, and the specific properties of the clinker itself, one should seriously approach the choice of an adhesive composition.

Clinker tiles are specially processed natural clay plates. The material is fired at temperatures above 1000 degrees, and then pressed into tiles or briquettes of the desired size.

However, the special strength of such a tile makes it vulnerable due to the fact that when exposed to temperature and other factors, its coefficient of deformation and expansion is much lower than that of a concrete or brick wall. In other words, when conditions change, this durable material can detach from the surface of the facade, since it is much less susceptible to flexibility and deformation.

Another disadvantage of clinker tiles is their heavy weight. Densely compressed fired clay will gain a large mass even if it is formed into relatively small pieces such as tiles or cladding bricks.

The features of the material listed above indicate the need for the correct choice of glue. The appearance and durability of the entire decorative finish will depend on the strength of the connection with the surface. Departure or chipping of individual elements significantly spoils the aesthetics of the appearance of the facade, balcony or clinker steps.

The adhesive mixture for clinker finishing elements must first of all meet the following requirements:

• Increased viscosity of the adhesive solution. Only an adhesive of sufficient viscosity and concentration will be able to hold the clinker tiles during curing. Otherwise, the elements can move away from the surface even during the gluing process.
• Good moisture resistance and resistance to temperature extremes. Due to the fact that external elements are most often finished with clinker, the adhesive solution must also tolerate the effects of external weather and temperature conditions well.

• Sufficient elasticity of the adhesive. Due to the low moisture absorption coefficient, clinker tiles will not be able to adhere well to the surface when using hard adhesive.
• High adhesion rates of the adhesive. High adhesion (adhesion) is necessary so that heavy clay elements are firmly fixed on the surface, especially on a vertical one, and do not displace the glue during the drying process.

By type and composition, adhesive solutions are:

• Cement. This is one of the most widely used types of solutions. Such adhesives are well suited for both external and internal work. Such an adhesive mixture combines all the qualities necessary for fixing clinker tiles: sufficient viscosity, elasticity and adhesion strength. The basis of this composition is cement, it is supplemented by plasticizers and modifying additional elements.

• One-component mixtures. The composition of such an adhesive solution is monotonous.The glue is easy to use, as it is sold ready-made in metal buckets of various sizes. However, a significant drawback that can negatively affect the laying of tiles in a vertical position is the relatively long drying time of such a composition.
• Two-component adhesive mixtures. These adhesives are epoxy based. It contains resins and a hardener. Before use, both components are kneaded until a homogeneous adhesive mass is obtained.

In the Russian market, adhesive mixtures and compositions of the following brands have proven themselves well:

• Extrabond. This adhesive composition is produced in our country. The mixture is universal and is suitable for interior decoration, as well as for exterior decoration of facades and decorative elements of buildings. The glue has a high frost resistance.
• Adhesive composition RKS. It is mainly used for laying clinker tiles and other indoor elements. A distinctive quality of this glue is its high moisture resistance. It is allowed to use this mixture for outdoor work in temperate climates.

• Ceresit CM. It has excellent elasticity and high moisture resistance. It is often and successfully used for finishing rooms with high humidity, such as swimming pools and showers.
• Adhesive composition "Quick mix Baumacol". Has the greatest elasticity. It withstands temperature extremes and other external factors well. Perfectly holds clinker tiles on complex structures, such as stoves, fireplaces, multi-level decorative elements.

When choosing an adhesive for clinker tiles it is worth remembering a few simple rules and tips that will help you choose the best and most suitable adhesive composition:

• You should choose an adhesive that, in terms of its qualities and characteristics, strictly corresponds to the conditions under which you plan to use it. In other words, you cannot use compounds for internal work on external facades and elements. Indicators such as moisture resistance, resistance to temperature extremes must also be taken into account.

• Even the so-called universal adhesives often have a number of limitations and requirements for operating conditions. In any case, it is necessary to carefully examine the packaging for the composition and specific properties of the selected glue.
• Modern manufacturers produce adhesives that contain components to protect against the development of mold and mildew. This is a useful additional property, especially if the tiles are laid on an external facade or in a room with high humidity.

• The quality of work can be significantly improved by using a grout of the same company as the glue of your choice. Adhesives and grout from different manufacturers may contain dissimilar incompatible materials.
• Do not rush to give up cheaper analogs. Carefully study the composition, description of properties and instructions. Many inexpensive formulations and mixtures are not inferior in quality to expensive ones.

For information on how to lay clinker tiles on a prepared wall, see the next video.