Better than cement

APPLYING adhesives offers a better option when one needs to fix tiles or stones on flat surfaces.

Cement is an ubiquitous material that it is utilized in almost every stage of construction. It is used not only for joining building materials or in strengthening structures but  also applied as an adhesive for fixing items to walls, floors and countertops.

However, despite the tradition, builders now discover that cement may not be effective when it comes to securing stones and tiles on flat surfaces.

“Many builders now find adhesives as a better alternative than regular cement,” said Jen Cerilles, marketing manager for Fortress Admixtures and Sealers.

She added that the company markets two types of adhesives:  Fortress Stone Adhesives and Fortress Tile Adhesives.

“While Fortress Tile Adhesives is effective for fixing most tile materials, the Fortress Stone Adhesives is specially formulated for securing heavier materials such as granite, marble, travertine, sandstone, limestone and quartzite. Contractors find that our products are stickier and easier to fasten and set than cement, which makes installation faster,” Cerilles explained.

Unlike cement that may become brittle overtime, adhesives remains flexible even if the concrete experiences micro shifts or develops cracks as a result of ground movement or vibrations.

Cerilles also noted that builders who utilized cement often end up with hollow spaces underneath the tiles.

“This is a result of poor workmanship known as ‘kapak,’ which results in loose fillings and air gaps underneath the tiles. When tested, they usually give out hollow sound when tapped. The problem is, no one will be able to notice this unless one knocks on these tiles (gives out a hollow sound) or a crack suddenly developed when struck by a blunt object,” she said.

Another problem is moisture, which occurs when cement hardens. The excess water within the mixture goes to the nearest opening, which is usually on the edges of the tiles or blocks.

“If grout is used too early, the migrating water from the cement will not be able to escape and would cause the loosening of the tiles. With adhesives, the excess moisture is managed much more effectively,” Cerilles said.

She added that with adhesives, applicators now have a premixed compound (water is the only thing added) and will no longer have to guess the right proportions for the effective bond.

She said that as more people realize the value of quality adhesives for their tile and stone finishes, the company continues to develop the best materials that not only prevents unscheduled repairs but also preserves the beauty of the finished structure for many years.