Tiling is a widely used surface finishing technique that can be applied to improve the appearance and usefulness of all types of buildings and facilities. It can range from beautiful tiled surfaces to highly functional tiled wall and floor finishes. For any distinct project area, choosing the appropriate tile and tile installation method is always vital. To guarantee the appropriate quality and longevity, this should involve the proper joint sealing, waterproofing, and surface preparation for every area and tile. To provide integrated systems that yield the best results, Sika has created a wide variety of tile adhesives, tile grouts, and useful ancillary products.
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FAQ
Sika’s tile adhesives, like SikaCeram‑50,‑105, and‑205 cementitious adhesives, are used to permanently fix wall and floor tiles in tropical conditions; they’re easy to apply, have good workability, and bond tiles securely on cement screeds, concrete or renders.
Poor adhesion is often caused by dusty substrates, smooth surfaces, standing water, or incorrect mixing ratios. Using the wrong adhesive class for the tile type can also lead to failure. Proper surface preparation and selecting a suitable SikaCeram® C1 or C2 adhesive (see details here) greatly improves bonding.
The strongest tile adhesives are C2-rated, polymer-modified cementitious adhesives designed for high bond strength, heavy tiles, and demanding substrates. They offer improved adhesion, flexibility, and durability compared to standard adhesives. A high-performance option is the SikaCeram 205, click here to access the technical data sheet.
Tile adhesive is not a substitute for grout. Adhesives are meant for bonding tiles, while grouts protect joints from water ingress, dirt, and movement. Using adhesive in joints leads to cracking and discoloration. Always finish installations with a suitable SikaCeram® tile grout find out more here.
Factory formulated tile adhesives should not be mixed with additional cement. Doing so alters performance, reduces bond strength, and voids product guarantees. Tile adhesives are already optimally blended with cement, polymers, and additives. Simply add clean water as instructed. Follow the SikaCeram® adhesive mixing guidelines, available here.
No, tile grout should never be used as a tile adhesive. Grouts are designed only to fill joints and do not provide the bonding strength needed to hold tiles in place. Using grout instead of adhesive leads to tile debonding. Always use a proper tile adhesive and a compatible SikaCeram® grout. Find more details here.
Tile adhesives are commonly classified as C0, C1, and C2, based on performance. C0 is basic, C1 offers standard bonding, and C2 provides enhanced adhesion and flexibility for large-format or low-absorption tiles. Choosing the right class is critical. Explore the SikaCeram® adhesive range here.
The best method is to use a polymer-modified tile adhesive suitable for vertical applications, applied with the correct notched trowel to ensure full contact. Proper surface preparation and adhesive selection prevent tile slip. High-performance wall tiling solutions are available in the SikaCeram® range (click here for guidance on selecting the best option).
Sika wall putties are designed to provide a smooth, even surface prior to painting. They improve paint adhesion, reduce paint consumption, and enhance surface appearance when applied on sound, clean, and properly prepared substrates according to the product data sheet. Click here for more information on sika wall putty.