TECHNICAL GUIDE 6 - FIXING TILES
Ceramic tiles are today used extensively in bathrooms, Kitchens, and toilets. They provide an attractive surface, which is easily cleaned. Tile surfaces are waterproof and hygienic.
However the fixing of tiles requires materials that have to be compatible with the tiles. The joints between tiles also need to provide as good a performance as the tiles. The age-old practice of using ordinary cement has been observed to be largely inadequate.
Details
For fixing the tiles essentially two different types of mixes of POLYALK TF are required
(i) slurry or bonding mix
(ii) fixing and bedding mortar.
POLYALK TF slurry is prepared using 1 part by weight of POLYALK TF and 1 part by weight of cement. Both the ingredients are mixed thoroughly in a mechanical mixer. Mixing has to be carried out until the mix is of uniform consistency.
POLYALK TF mortar is prepared using:
1 part by weight POLYALK TF,
3 parts by weight of ordinary Portland Cement,
9 parts by weight of Graded Quartz sand.
The three ingredients taken in the above proportion are mixed together to form a mass of thick pliable dough like consistency. As little water as possible may be added while mixing.
Method of use
- Clean the receiving surface of all the loose particles, oil, grease etc.
- Wet the surface.
- Prime the back of the tile and the receiving surface with 1:1 slurry of 'Polyalk TF' and cement.
- Spread the POLYALK TF Mortar mix uniformly on the back of the already primed tile. Remove excess material by a notched trowel and press home the tile into position. A 3 mm thick layer is more than adequate.
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