Tile adhesive for wet rooms. Choosing the best adhesive for bathroom tiles. Properties of mixtures: which tile adhesive is better

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Finishing rooms with high humidity (kitchen) and, especially, direct contact of enclosing structures with water (shower, bath, bathhouse) requires the use of special technologies. Floor and wall cladding ceramic tiles is the most common design option for such rooms - even bicottura (cheap porous double-fired ceramics) is a waterproof finishing material due to the layer of glaze on the front surface. However, the ceramic coating is not monolithic - there is no glaze at the seams between the tiles, and water can seep under the tiles through defects in the grout, moreover, containing detergents. Therefore, adhesive for tiles in a bathroom or shower, both laying and grouting, must be resistant to the specific influences characteristic of these rooms.

Let's consider how to choose the right tile adhesive based on possible situations in the room, so that the result of laying ceramics will please you not only with beauty, but also with durability.

Requirements for tile adhesive for finishing “wet” rooms

In addition to the characteristics that most modern mixtures for laying ceramics have (strength, the required degree of adhesion and elasticity, sufficient “survival” time of the solution, etc.), adhesive for tiles in the bathroom must be:

• Waterproof – maintain physical characteristics after prolonged contact with water.
• Resistant to household chemicals - do not change their properties from repeated exposure to detergents and cleaning agents, since the requirements for the sanitary condition of personal hygiene premises are always high.
• Resistant to microorganisms - not only not to be destroyed by fungus, but also to actively counteract its formation.

The absence of at least one of the listed qualities in tile adhesive makes the compound unsuitable for use in “wet” rooms.

Types of industrial tile adhesives

Commercially available adhesives for laying ceramic tiles are divided into 2 main groups:

1. Dry mixtures based on cement.
2. Liquid (paste) adhesives.

The first group, by definition, is represented by cementitious adhesive materials, and the second consists of the following two subgroups:

• Dispersion mixtures.
• Reactive compounds (epoxy, polyurethane, epoxy-polyurethane).

Group cement adhesives and each of the subgroups of liquid adhesives consists of many varieties, similar in scope, but differing from each other in the presence of one or two specific properties or numerical values general characteristics.

In addition to the instructions for use, on the packaging of adhesive compositions, for ease of orientation when choosing, there is a special (lettered and digital) marking of the type and class of material to which the adhesive must correspond in terms of characteristics. Let's summarize these designations in a table of classification of compounds.

Cement-based adhesives

This is the most numerous and popular group of tile compounds that meet the necessary requirements in most situations, including bathrooms. Cement adhesives are sold in the form of dry mixtures, packaged in bags and requiring only mixing with water to be ready for use.

Epoxy adhesive is used for finishing swimming pools and bathrooms

The main component of these compositions is cement-sand mixture certain proportions, in which Portland cement is a binder, and the filler (sand of the required fraction) enhances the strength of the material after curing. In addition to CPS, up to 5% of the volume of dry cement adhesive consists of modifying additives - plasticizers, elements that increase frost resistance, water-retaining substances and other components that enhance the profile characteristics of the adhesive mixture.

Dry cement-based mixtures are divided into 2 types:

1. Thin-layer - for tiling bases with level differences of no more than 1 cm.
2. Thick-layer - for cladding with simultaneous leveling of surfaces with differences of 1-3 cm.

The surface of the enclosing structures of bathrooms is most often a stone base, less often covered with gypsum fiber board, but in forest regions it is not uncommon and completely wooden houses. Cement adhesives are suitable for laying tiles on the following surfaces of horizontal and vertical structures (walls, slopes of openings and niches, floors, ceilings):

• All types monolithic concrete, regardless of the filler.
• Plaster layer of cement-sand or lime mortar.
• Masonry made of brick, natural stone, as well as slag, gas and foam blocks.
• GKLV (moisture-resistant plasterboard).
• Reinforced surface made of chipboard, DSP and ADC (wood-chip, cement-bonded and asbestos cement board), wood, metal or plastic.

Choose the most functional view cement mixture for finishing a bathroom with ceramic tiles is necessary with the binding of the modifying characteristics of the adhesive to the physical and qualitative parameters of the base, as well as the properties and dimensions of the facing material.

When using glass mosaic tiles, regardless of the base material, the bathroom tile adhesive should be based on white cement, since the dark compound will distort color scheme translucent cladding.

When purchasing glue, it is necessary to pay attention to the expiration date, since the old material partially loses its properties, and the lumps formed in it during storage cannot be crushed.

The mixture is prepared for use according to the instructions - manually, by mixing with water and thoroughly mixing with a construction mixer until a homogeneous consistency is obtained. Tiles made of any type of ceramic when laid on cement adhesive do not need soaking - only cleaning the back surface from dust.

Application to surfaces with significant unevenness

Old flaking finish is removed from the base (concrete, masonry) or firmly seated plaster, oil paint It's better to remove it completely. The cleaned surface is primed, after which the degree of its unevenness is assessed.

If the differences in levels exceed 3 cm, then using thick-layer cement adhesive for tiles in the bathroom, preliminary leveling of the base is carried out, and after 3-5 days you can begin tiling using the same or a thin-layer composition. This method of eliminating defects increases the consumption of the adhesive mixture, but reduces labor intensity by eliminating the need to prepare a solution from CPS.

Irregularities from 1 to 3 cm can be eliminated by installing ceramics directly onto the primed surface.

Use in the construction of floors, including warm ones

The use of cement adhesive in the bathroom under floor tiles is also possible, but if the ceramic sheets are of significant weight, the layer of mortar should not exceed 1 cm to avoid subsidence.

Cement tile mixtures are also used for final leveling bases for installation of water heated floor circuits - after installation and curing of the carrier concrete screed identified irregularities are eliminated by applying glue using wide spatula.

The use of cement compounds when laying tiles on gypsum boards

A fiberglass reinforcing mesh is attached to the moisture-resistant drywall primed with a hydrophobic composition using self-tapping screws, on top of which a continuous layer of cement adhesive is laid with a spatula to fill the cells. The ceramics are laid in a thin layer after the adhesive mixture has cured and dried on the mesh.

Using ordinary, non-moisture-resistant drywall for applying mixtures that are mixed with water is fraught with peeling of the shell and loss of strength of the plasterboard, as a result of which it may simply fall off the frame along with the finishing.

Application of cement adhesives on pressed boards and wood

Before finishing them with ceramics on a cement mixture, bases made of wood or particle boards must also be impregnated with a hydrophobic composition and reinforced with mesh. But when facing floor surfaces, waterproofing is made of two layers of technical polyethylene under the mesh. The tiles should be glued to such a surface after the cells have been completely grouted with the adhesive mixture.

After installation is completed, the cladding must be given time for the compound under the tile to not only harden, but also dry. Therefore, grouting of tile joints must be done 7-10 days after laying the ceramics. If tile adhesive based on white cement was used for the sticker, then it can also be used to fill the joints.

Among the many cement-based adhesives successfully used for tiling bathrooms, materials from the following lines have consistently high ratings:

• Bergauf – Keramik, Keramik Pro, Praktik, Izofix, Mosaik.
• Litokol – Litogres K44 Eco, HyperFlexK100, Litoflex K80 Eco.
• Unis – Fix, HiTech, BelFix.
• Cerezit – CM 11 Plus, CM 14 Extra, CM16 Flex.

All of the listed compositions are applicable for the installation of ceramics of various types and formats, are characterized by high moisture resistance and adhesion, are durable and affordable.

When purchasing adhesive materials from the manufacturer Knauf, known for their high strength characteristics, you should carefully read the instructions - most of them are not intended for finishing “wet” rooms.

Dispersion mixtures

These one-component adhesives are aqueous dispersion acrylic with white modifying additives, which after mixing is completely ready for use.

The consistency of the dispersion adhesive mixture depends on the application and can be different - compositions for laying tiles, for example, are produced as a paste, but are still optimal for use on flat substrates with low porosity.

After applying the glue to the surface, the water from it evaporates or goes into the materials being glued, resulting in polymerization of the mixture, which becomes water-insoluble and transparent. The use of aqueous adhesive dispersions gives good results when gluing tiles to walls lined with plasterboard, but when finishing bathrooms even with this adhesive, the drywall must be moisture-resistant and coated with a hydrophobic composition.

Lay tiles on dispersion adhesive as follows:

• Apply the mixture using a brush or spatula to back side tiles and spread evenly on it in a layer according to the instructions for use.
• Place the tile sheet on the design place in the row and install suture crosses at the joints.
• Place the tile exactly in place, press it to the base and maintain pressure for a certain time (according to the instructions).

It is not difficult to glue ceramics onto such a composition, so installation productivity is usually high. In addition, in one stage of work, unlike installation on cement mixtures, it is possible to glue more than three rows of tiles - the thickness of the dispersion adhesive layer is small, and its adhesion is high.

When installing tiles, especially porous ones (clinker, cotto), it is necessary to immediately remove any excess dispersion adhesive with a damp rag, which, despite its transparency after curing, will be noticeable on the front surface.

Disadvantages of adhesive dispersions can be attributed to higher than that of cement compositions, cost and requirements for the evenness of the surface being coated.

Reactive compounds

This group of adhesive mixtures consists of three subgroups - epoxy, polyurethane and epoxy-polyurethane compositions, the high characteristics of which make them suitable for finishing bathrooms with tiles.

Polyurethane adhesives are produced as one-component adhesives, while epoxy and epoxy-polyurethane adhesives are produced as two-component adhesives. The method of preparation for use and the proportions of the components to be mixed are indicated on the packages of the mixtures. As a result of the reaction that occurs between the components after mixing, the mixture hardens to form a durable substance, impermeable to liquids and gases, resistant to the effects of the entire list of household factors.

Of all the adhesive compositions listed above, reactive compounds are the most functional, since they allow gluing together almost any materials, and the labor intensity of preparing “difficult” surfaces for cladding is low - depending on the situation, light abrasive treatment, degreasing, and reinforcement of the base may be necessary .

Answering the question of which adhesive for bathroom tiles is better, we can confidently say that it is reactive. The only negative is its price. High performance Such mixtures determine the corresponding cost and do not allow their use over large areas. In everyday life, reactive adhesives are used for finishing small areas of bases that cannot be covered. traditional ways, or spot repair of high-class artistic cladding.

When choosing an adhesive to lay tiles in the bathroom, you should not strive to purchase a material with exceptional characteristics and glue the ceramics “forever” - interior fashion is changing. In addition, the range of the modern compound market allows one to achieve good results when using adhesive mixtures in a widely available price range, and most often these are Portland cement-based materials.

In search of plastic and elastic

Range tile adhesives has dozens, maybe even hundreds of titles. In stores, there are separate categories for compositions for external and interior work; gradation is carried out according to cost; There are often separations of dry mixtures for wall and floor tiles. Each manufacturer is in a hurry to offer its product line, and consumers are scratching their heads: which tile adhesive is better, and what you need to buy so that the tiles don’t fall off in a week.

Knowing the basics of physics, chemistry and specific requirements for high-quality cladding, it can be argued that a good glue should be:

• plastic- do not delaminate or spread during the gluing process;
• elastic- withstand deformation loads in an already hardened state;
• with low drying speed- for possible adjustments and auxiliary manipulations;
• with high adhesion rates- securely hold tiles of any size.

To understand exactly which tile adhesive manufacturer deserves the most trust, we will try to evaluate the most popular brands. As “representatives” we will choose dry mixtures with indicators close to universal ones.

1. KNAUF Fliesen
The best tile adhesive for detailed work and difficult surfaces

Photo: poiskplitki.ru

Approximate price: 250 RUR/25 kg.

According to reviews on professional forums, this tile adhesive is considered one of the best among the many offers for dry mixes. Pragmatic Germans have provided in it everything necessary for thorough and high-quality work. Glue is equally successfully used for laying floor and wall tiles, and the appearance and texture of the surfaces are not significant. The drying speed is slow, which allows for sequential installation, cleaning of joints and grouting. KNAUF Flisen is considered economical solution, since it can be applied in a thin layer (0.7 cm) without compromising the quality of adhesion. Suitable for “tailor-made” work, it is characterized by high elasticity, which allows the composition to be used when cladding areas of complex configurations.

2. UNIS 2000
good tile adhesive with strong adhesion

Photo: optinaz.ru

Approximate price: 250 RUR/25 kg.

Yunis tile adhesive is actively fighting with Knauf for first place and often wins - especially in terms of adhesion and drying speed. If the viability of the solution is 3 hours, it must be taken into account that the time allocated for laying and adjusting the tiles is 10 minutes, and you can walk on the laid material within a day. The glue performs well in cold weather and high humidity, and thanks to its high elasticity, it easily tolerates deformation of materials during temperature changes. Having given preference to UNIS 2000 glue, you need to tune in to a high pace of work, because, as the craftsmen themselves say, after 24 hours you will not “pull through” the seams. As for consumption, the figures here are close to ideal - from 3.75 to 5 kg per square meter.

3. OSNOVIT Mastplix T-12
best tile adhesive for uneven surfaces

Photo: www.spbstroy.ru

Approximate price: 250 RUR/25 kg.

A worthy contender for third place, which can counter its competitors with its leveling properties. Even with significant differences in the surface, Mastplix T-12 tile adhesive does its job perfectly. And this is not a advertising ploy by the manufacturer, reviews construction organizations confirm this fact. The adhesive can be used for laying ceramic tiles, as well as for facing porcelain stoneware and natural stone. High adhesive properties make it possible to lay finishing materials from top to bottom without any problems.

4. Ceresit SM-11
good all-purpose tile adhesive

Photo: www.lkvlg.ru

Approximate price: 265 RUR/25 kg.

You can talk about this glue for a long time - both professionals and amateurs appreciate its advantages, but it did not get into first place, so to speak, because of its excessive versatility (the composition is not suitable for some types of tiles). Ceresit CM-11 adhesive is worth buying when laying is carried out on a not very flat surface, when a beginner takes on the cladding, and if there are no specific wishes for the mixture, based on the parameters of the ceramic tile. Having an adhesion of more than 1.0 MPa, the adhesive sets perfectly and virtually eliminates the sliding of the facing material along the wall. Recommended for laying tiles with your own hands at home for interior spaces.

5.IVSIL Mosaik
tile adhesive with good moisture-repellent properties

Photo: mer-instrument.ru

Approximate price: 480 RUR / 25 kg.

It combines two advantages that allowed this tile adhesive to be included in the list of the best on the construction market: snow-white color and excellent adhesive strength. According to these criteria, IVSIL Mosaik already falls into the professional category. The manufacturer indicates the adhesion of the finished mixture to be more than 1.0 MPa, which means you can be confident about the quality when working with almost any tile material. Preferred application: cladding mosaic tiles, glass and translucent, as well as with natural stone of high porosity. It does not have strict restrictions on weather conditions and humidity, and implies a fairly intensive pace of work. Suitable for cladding bathrooms, saunas, water tanks, swimming pools.

6. LITOFLEX K80
the best adhesive for professional tiling

Photo: www.parket-plitka.ru

Approximate price: 530 RUR/25 kg.

It is considered a professional adhesive for laying porcelain tiles, but is equally successfully used for working with wall tiles. High adhesion rates allow Litoflex K80 to be used for complex operations: installing heated floors, laying tiles on tiles. The adhesive has excellent elasticity, which makes it an ideal assistant for interior and exterior work when it is necessary to cladding facades and plinths of buildings of the most different categories. Application in a thin layer is allowed, which allows you to carefully use the dry mixture in your work.

7. Bergauf Mosaik
best adhesive for mosaic and glass tiles

Photo: www.ok-stroy.ru

Approximate price: 645 RUR/25 kg.

As the name suggests, the glue is recommended for working with such capricious materials as mosaics. At the same time, the standard scope of use is not excluded: for ceramic tiles, decorative and natural stone, as well as for large slabs. The white color of the mixture and the finished mortar allows Bergauf Mosaik to be used for working with marble, white tiles and mosaics on a translucent and plain base. High rates of adhesion, ductility and elasticity make possible to carry out external finishing works, as well as use in conditions of high humidity. The glue is not capricious - it does not require special preparation of the base and even allows installation at an angle on brick, plaster, cement, concrete, metal, plywood. There are no restrictions on the scope of application.

8. MIRA 3130 superfix
The best one-component cement tile adhesive

Photo: kodumaailm.ee

Approximate price: 650 RUR/25 kg.

Adhesive ideal for working in damp areas. It is recommended for use for tiling showers and bathrooms, and is well suited even for such capricious materials as mosaics or thin translucent tiles. Using MIRA 3130, you don’t have to worry that expensive and beautiful finishing material will fall off the walls due to excess moisture - the quality of the dry mixture guarantees an excellent result. The glue is characterized by high elasticity, adhesion, water resistance and frost resistance.

9.Sopro 450
Impact-resistant tile adhesive

Photo: snab-rf.ru

Approximate price: 700 rub/25 kg.

Reinforced cement-based adhesive mixture for professional use. Sopro tile adhesive guarantees the longest service life finishing materials, virtually eliminates splitting and damage to tiles during operation due to the presence of reinforcing fibers in the mixture. Demonstrates excellent elasticity and adhesion. It differs from similar dry mixtures in increased water-repellent properties, which allows for tiling work in swimming pools and saunas. Recommended for laying mosaics, tiles, and natural stone.

10. Keraflex Maxi
the best adhesive for large format and heavy tiles

Photo: www.alprom74.ru

Approximate price: 1100 rub/25 kg.

If you need a dust-free adhesive during the mixing process, suitable for all types of building materials and different good performance in all respects and allowing you to lay tiles without pre-leveling walls, then Keraflex Maxi is your the best choice. The composition is easy to mix, flexible and easy to use. It holds even very heavy and large-format tiles perfectly on vertical surfaces. Eliminates slipping during installation. It has excellent elasticity and has virtually no restrictions in areas of use. But at the same time very expensive!

Which tile adhesive is best to buy?

When wondering which tile adhesive is best to buy, understand all aspects of its use. For mosaics, only white glue is needed, but for porcelain tiles, high adhesion is important. For the bathroom and balcony, the adhesive must have different tolerance to humidity and low temperatures. To choose The best decision from dry mixtures, pay attention to the recommendations from the “Price Expert” and ... good repair!

Today, choosing adhesive for bathroom tiles is quite simple if you are aware of all the features of its use. There are not many options for tile adhesive, so we can sort them out right now.

Adhesive for installation of ceramic tiles

Types of glue

Let's look at the types of adhesives for bathroom tiles, as well as the features of their operation. Now in the entire market we can identify 5 main types of tile mortar, which are often used by specialists. Let's look at them in more detail:

1. for the bathroom, suitable for working on a perfectly flat surface, where differences vary within 1 cm. Frost-resistant when completely dry.
2. for the bathroom – ideal for use on uneven surfaces. Because it must be used for layers of 1 cm or more.
3. Elastic tile adhesive for bathrooms it is customary to use it to cover a moving surface or the so-called heated floor. Such glue will excellent option for laying tiles that cannot absorb sufficient moisture or for covering surfaces that do not absorb moisture. The main difference between elastic glue and others is the insignificant level of mobility after it has completely dried.
4. The bathroom is completely waterproof. Therefore, it is mainly used in swimming pools, laundries, bathrooms and even in chemical laboratories, since this glue is resistant even to the influence of chemical reagents. Epoxy mortar can be used as a grout between tiles.
5. The main difference between a fungicidal solution– this is its wonderful composition. The unique elements included in its composition prevent the appearance and development of fungi and other types of mold. Therefore, fungicidal adhesive is perhaps the best tile adhesive for the bathroom.

In addition to the variety of tile mortars in composition, we can also distinguish them by color. There are white and gray mixtures.

If you are going to lay tiles in the form of a mosaic, then give preference white solution. At the same time, mixtures differ in purpose, however, we advise you to give preference to mixtures in which the composition is more or less universal.

How to choose the perfect mixture?

In order to choose the right mix for bathroom tiles, you need to decide on three main nuances:

• So, the first thing you should pay attention to is the size of the selected tile. When using tiles big size(30*60 or 60*60 cm), you must choose glue with a high level of adhesion (adhesion, adhesion). However, you can also use universal glue, provided that there are no more than three rows of tiles.
• The next point that it is recommended to pay attention to is the operating conditions of the tiles. If you have heated floors in your bathroom, it is recommended to use a solution with a high level of heat resistance - elastic.
• Another factor that is worth paying attention to is the surface on which the tiles will be laid. Here it is worth taking into account the ability of this surface to absorb moisture. In this case, give preference to elastic adhesives. However, their price is slightly higher than universal ones.

Universal mixture for tile surfaces and its disadvantages

Please note that when laying tiles in the bathroom, you should choose a mixture with a specialized composition. Now we will tell you about the beneficial differences between special adhesives and the universal composition. To do this, let's look at what a universal mixture is.

In fact, a universal mixture for tiles is a cross between high-quality mixtures that can withstand a variety of operating conditions, and cheaper analogues that are suitable only for use in dry rooms and without loads.

In bathrooms, we can note that tile surfaces are used quite aggressively. Because moisture will penetrate through the tile joints behind the tiled surface not only in the form of liquid, but also vapor. That is why it is recommended to use a moisture-resistant solution in such rooms. Or you will have to spend money on purchasing a water-repellent grout material for the tiles. Thus, universal cement for bathroom tiles is not the most the best option for bathrooms and other rooms with high humidity levels.

Preparing the solution

Of course, the best, most convenient and most reliable way would be to use special glue for tiles. But if such an option as special glue is not available, you can use the method of preparing cement mortar for tiles, which is common among builders.

You need to take one part of cement, add four parts of sand, mix thoroughly and add water. The main thing is not to overdo it when adding water, because a solution that is too thin will not give an adhesion, and a solution that is too thick will “weight down” the tile and will also not give a good adhesion. The easiest way to mix the solution is to use a special attachment on a drill. It is not recommended to use the solution immediately after it is ready; it is better to let it sit for about five minutes.

It is also a good option to use mastic as glue. You can prepare it at home, very quickly and very easily. You need to take one part of casein glue, add three to four parts of pure cement to it and mix everything thoroughly. The main thing is to watch the consistency of the glue; the mixture should be liquid and viscous, without lumps or clots of glue. The mixture is not recommended, use immediately after preparation, you need to wait 5-7 minutes, mix again and only then use.

The range of tile adhesives of different brands and varieties on the modern market is so wide that it is difficult to make a choice.

There are brands of glue suitable for external and internal work, for rooms with normal and increased level humidity, for wall and floor cladding. They all have their own characteristics, and when choosing tile adhesive you need to take into account its purpose. From the right one adhesive composition The service life of the tile coating depends on it.

There are many varieties into which tile adhesive is divided according to its purpose and scope of application. It is also classified according to its composition and form of release.

Classification of tile adhesive by purpose

According to international classifications, there are 5 types of tile adhesive:

1. For interior work- the most affordable composition without modifying additives, which can be used in domestic premises where there are no significant fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Provides fairly reliable adhesion of tiles to a solid base
2. Increased fixation. Has excellent adhesion, can be used for fastening large tiles to substrates from which the old coating, paint or even cladding has not been removed. Tiles glued to such a composition can withstand significant dynamic loads, temperature and humidity fluctuations
3. Universal. Suitable for external and internal work with standard conditions operation, without extreme loads. It is not recommended to use it for tiles whose dimensions exceed 30x30 cm.
4. For floor tiles. An analogue of universal glue, which differs from it in its increased content of plasticizer, due to which the composition better fills all voids. Commit wall tiles this glue will not work due to its high plasticity
5. Moisture-repellent. In addition to good adhesion, it has hydrophobic properties, which give it modifying additives. Can be used not only for rooms with high humidity levels, but also for lining pools and fountains

There are other approaches to classifying tile adhesive:

• for external and internal work
• for floors and walls
• thin-layer, for perfectly flat surfaces, and thick-layer, allowing to level out significant differences in height
• for rooms with normal or high humidity levels
• gray and white, the latter is usually used for mosaics, seams made with its use look more attractive and go better with colored grout

There are special mixtures:

• frost-resistant, used primarily for outdoor work
• waterproof, resistant to chlorinated water, for fountains, swimming pools, saunas, bathrooms
• heat-resistant, for lining stoves, fireplaces
• acid-resistant, for areas where chemicals are handled and for environments with temperature fluctuations
• quick-drying, allowing you to begin operation of a tiled room 3-5 hours after completion of work
• elastic, partially retaining mobility even after drying. Suitable for underfloor heating, for new buildings where shrinkage is possible
• fungicidal, with additives that protect against the formation and proliferation of mold and mildew

Classification of glue by composition and method of preparation

Tile adhesive can be sold as a ready-to-use mixture or as a composition that requires preparation. Highlight:

One-component, dispersion or paste adhesive:

• ready-to-use mixture
• has high ductility and is easy to apply
• can be used even by a person without special tile laying skills, since it hardens slowly and allows you to adjust the position of the tile
• dries slowly, you have to wait a long time before you can use the tiled room
• not suitable for hygroscopic surfaces such as concrete

Two-component- epoxy, polyurethane, mineral-inorganic silicate (acid-resistant) - immediately before use it is prepared from two compositions that react.

• ideal for wet environments, frost-resistant, waterproof, chemically inert
• provides a highly durable connection
• equally well suited for horizontal and vertical surfaces, different bases
• retains elasticity after drying, compatible with underfloor heating systems
• dries quickly, speeds up work and commissioning of the facility
• has a high cost
• requires precise adherence to proportions when preparing
• the high rate of hardening makes it difficult for inexperienced people to use such compositions

Cement glue the most common dry mixture for gluing tiles, it can consist of cement, cement and sand, and contain modifying additives. Dilute with water immediately before use.

• most affordable
• is thick-layer, allows you to level an uneven base
• There are reinforced grades of this type of glue that provide excellent adhesion and load resistance of the coating.
• special additives make such compositions water-resistant
• preparing a solution of the required consistency requires experience and taking into account a number of factors - the level of temperature and humidity in the room, the porosity of the tile
• not very plastic and sets quite quickly; in the absence of skills, you may not have time to use up the glue while it remains viable

Glue selection criteria

When choosing an adhesive, you need to consider 3 main factors:

• operating conditions (humidity level, temperature, load on the lined surface, risk of contact with chemically aggressive substances, mold, mildew)
• base material, porosity, absorbency, ability to adhere to one or another adhesive composition
• size and weight of the tiles - the larger and more massive the tile, the stronger the composition must be to fix it

Which tile adhesive to choose for the bathroom

Universal glue is not the best solution for the bathroom, where operating conditions are quite aggressive. It is better to purchase a specialized composition, first of all paying attention to such characteristics as water resistance. The use of frost-resistant and acid-resistant glue in the bathroom is also justified. The composition must contain fungicidal additives.

It is better to purchase different compositions for floor cladding and slabs; for floor tiles you need a more plastic composition with improved adhesion (at least 0.5 MPa, letter T in the marking), since the load on the floor is higher, and the tile itself usually has a larger area than wall tiles. Reinforced adhesive, cement with synthetic additives, is advisable to purchase for solid tiles large sizes, porcelain stoneware. Additives also increase adhesion quartz sand, latex. It is better to glue the mosaic onto a two-component white latex compound.

More often floor tiles in the bathroom it fits on concrete base, best adhesion It will be accompanied by a cement-based adhesive; a two-component one will also work. But with significant (10-12 mm) differences in height, it is more advisable to use a cheaper composition, cement, thick-layer (leveling).

You should not purchase a composition for laying tiles in the bathroom, the curing time of which exceeds 24 hours; due to the high level of humidity, it will dry even longer. Quick-drying glue should only be purchased if you are confident in own strength and you can quickly lay the tiles. Fast-hardening glue is marked with the letter F, with a longer life span - with the letter E.

If a heated floor is installed in the bathroom, you need a special composition with increased elasticity and resistance to temperature fluctuations. Marking S1 on the package means that the glue is elastic, S2 – super elastic.

The best adhesives for bathroom tiles

You can find out current prices in Yandex Market

Bottom line

To lay tiles in the bathroom, you need to purchase waterproof adhesive with fungicides that have sufficiently high adhesion. The ideal solution in terms of price and quality ratio is a cement-based adhesive; depending on the conditions of use, it may contain various additives - plasticizing, improving adhesion, increasing hydrophobicity, and others.

Tile - optimal material for tiling the bathroom, where there is always high humidity and temperature. But in order for the finish to be strong and durable, you need to choose the right composition for fixing the tiles. Once upon a time it was “planted” on a regular solution of cement and sand, and real craftsmen added PVA glue to it for strength. However, such a mixture still did not provide good adhesion, so the tiles often came off.

Today, it is not at all necessary to mix the solution yourself, accurately calculating the proportions - there are special compositions that ensure reliable finishing. They also include fractionated sand and cement, and in addition, special modified additives - thanks to their characteristics, the tiles can last for years. The range of such mixtures on the market is very large, so those who are planning to tile a bathroom need to know some criteria for choosing products.

There are several criteria that must be taken into account when choosing a mixture for fixing tiles.

1. The base on which the tiles will be laid: old tiles, drywall, concrete, plaster, etc. Special attention you need to pay attention to such features as heated floors and thin walls that are subject to increased vibration - in this case you need to think carefully about the choice of glue, otherwise the tile will quickly fall off.

   Base for ceramic tiles - tips and tricks

2. The area of ​​one tile and the size of the entire surface that will need to be tiled. It is better to lay large tiles with glue with increased adhesive characteristics - the weight of such tiles is much greater than that of ordinary ones, so they may not just fall off, but immediately “float” along the surface of the wall.
3. Dry or ready-made mixture: most often, consumers choose dry compositions, since wet ones are more expensive, and in addition, the latter can only be laid on a perfectly smooth surface.
4. Cement-based mixtures dry faster, that is, it is better to work with them if you have some experience, as well as at moderate air temperatures.
5. If the cement mixture contains a large number of plasticizers, it will dry much faster.
6. Plasticizers in the adhesive are necessary if the tiles will be laid on the floor, since in this case the coating must withstand quite heavy loads.
7. If the person who will be laying the tiles does not have much experience, it is better to choose mixtures that do not dry too quickly, since the installer will need a certain amount of time to level each unit well. In this case, the best option is a one-component adhesive (for example, dispersion), sold in the form of a paste.
8. Two-component mixtures must be made independently, but at the same time they are considered the most reliable or durable.
9. If the question arises of using a universal glue or a specialized one, it is recommended to give preference to the second option. Universal adhesive can be safely used in the simplest cases, that is, when laying ordinary ceramic tiles on flat cement or concrete base. Also, it is better to use separate species glue for walls and a separate one for the floor - this approach not only saves money, but also increases the reliability of the finish (the floor covering is usually subject to high loads and also suffers more from moisture).

   Tile adhesive K-11 “Universal”

10. Shelf life of products. Even in order to save money, you should not purchase glue that has expired, is damaged in packaging, or has been stored in improper conditions (at high or low temperatures, high humidity, etc.). Such mixtures lose their qualities, so the tiles will not hold up well and will fall off or crack over time.

In addition, when purchasing adhesive for laying tiles, it is important to consider the type of mixture, since this determines final result, that is, the strength of the future coating.

Types of tile adhesive

There are not so many types of adhesive mixtures for tiles (unlike brands and manufacturers): these are cement, dispersion, elastic and epoxy mixtures, however, each of them has its own characteristics and characteristics.

Cement mixtures

As the name suggests, these mixtures contain cement. They are considered one of the cheapest on the market and are sold in the form of powders that need to be diluted with water and sometimes other components (liquid latex, resin, etc.) added. In the first case, the mixtures are called modified, since all the necessary ingredients are added at the production stage.

What do you need to know about choosing cement mixtures? The packaging of such products may be marked “thin-layer tile adhesive” or “thick-layer tile adhesive”. The first option is suitable when the tiles are laid on flat surface with differences of no more than 10 mm. But thick-layer mixtures are used when the walls or floor are uneven, with large gaps or cracks.

knauf tile adhesive

Dispersion mixtures

Dispersion solutions have increased adhesion, so they are excellent for working with complex surfaces, as well as those that do not absorb various substances very well: drywall, painted surfaces, old tiles. But for concrete foundations it is better to choose another option. They are mixtures of acrylic with binders and artificial resins.

Such products are sold in finished form, in sealed plastic containers, and are slightly more expensive than cement ones, but at the same time have a number of valuable advantages:

• do not require independent preparation of the mixture, that is, they allow you to avoid mistakes when observing proportions and save time;
• work is carried out without unnecessary dirt and dust;
• a fairly large “setting” interval, thanks to which individual tiles can be well aligned.

Elastic mixtures

This type of adhesive mixtures - best option for laying tiles on surfaces that are completely devoid of the ability to absorb moisture, as well as on moving substrates. They are often used for lining heated floors, since the adhesive can withstand the expansion and contraction of surfaces due to exposure to high temperatures.

Epoxy mixtures

Epoxy adhesive is least often used for laying tiles in residential premises, since, firstly, it is quite expensive, and, secondly, it requires some experience. In addition, there are some conditions that must be observed when working: support for a certain temperature regime, strict adherence to proportions, etc. Most often, epoxy mixtures are used for cladding saunas, swimming pools and other similar premises, as they allow tiling to be laid on any surface, including metal. After hardening, they become absolutely waterproof and are also resistant to acids and chemical solutions.

Ceresit CM 74. Technical information. File for download

How to choose adhesive for different types of tiles?

Diversity different types and today there are also many colors of tiles, and this is another selection criterion glue mixture. The simplest and most affordable option is gray glue, which is suitable for porcelain stoneware and regular ceramic tiles.

If the bathroom is planned to be tiled glass mosaic or marble, it is recommended to choose white mixtures. Contrary to popular belief, he does not have the best performance characteristics, but marble can absorb glue and subsequently change color. When using white glue, the cladding will darken much less, which means it will look much better.

But the mosaic composition must have a fairly fine grain, since this material is laid on a thin layer of glue, and for a better appearance this layer must be compressed even more.

The most common and high-quality (according to consumer reviews) brands of adhesive mixtures for tiles include:

• Ceresit (Ceresit);
• Knauf (Knauf);
• Kerakoll (Kerakoll);
• Sopro (Sopro);
• Litokol (Litokol).

How to calculate glue consumption?

Glue consumption is usually indicated in the instructions for a specific product, but in reality it is not so easy to calculate it. The amount of mixture that will have to be used to lay tiles is influenced by a number of factors and conditions.

1. Type of glue. All of the adhesive mixtures described above and their varieties have different characteristics: some are thicker, while others are more liquid. For example, the consumption of cement-based glue, which is diluted with water, ranges from 1 to 1.9 kg per square meter.
2. Features of tiles. The surface of porcelain stoneware absorbs the least amount of glue, glazed tiles absorb a little more, and the maximum amount is absorbed by the facing material called cotto and handmade tiles.
3. The surface on which the tiles will be laid. Ideal surface for tiling it must be absolutely flat and smooth - in this case you will need a minimum amount of glue. Besides, different abilities The surface of the base on which you plan to lay the tiles also has the ability to absorb moisture: the higher the porosity of the material, the more it will absorb the adhesive mixture.
4. Weather. Optimal temperature temperature at which tiles can be laid is from 18 to 25 degrees. If the room is too hot, the moisture from the solution will evaporate too quickly, and the consumption of the mixture will increase. At sub-zero temperatures, it is generally not recommended to veneer surfaces, as the glue may lose its characteristics.
5. Working technique and qualifications of the stacker. The amount of adhesive mixture consumed is largely influenced by the installation technology, the experience of the craftsman (a person with the appropriate skills and qualifications will use less glue than a beginner) and even the type of spatula that will be used to perform the work. Qualified installers say that it is best to lay the mortar with a tool V-rev different shapes, the next most economical option is the U-shaped spatula. But most often, spatulas with square teeth are used for work, which, in turn, come in different shapes. Required size The teeth of the tool must be selected depending on the size of the tile - accordingly, the glue consumption in each individual case will be different.

Glue consumption

However, there is one nuance here - when using this table, you need to take into account the surface characteristics. If the base is uneven, it makes sense to slightly adjust the above parameters: for example, laying 30 by 30 tiles on a surface with big amount cracks and potholes, it is better to take a spatula with teeth not 8, but 10 mm. In addition, the tool must be held in a certain way: an angle that is as close as possible to perpendicular will allow you to create more thick layer glue.

There are three options for calculating the amount of glue required for wall and floor cladding, from which you should choose the optimal option in a particular case.

Option #1. This decision Suitable for those who already have experience working with a mixture of a particular brand. To calculate the glue consumption, you can look at the instructions or go to the company’s official page and use a special calculator: enter data on the size of the consumable material, the surface area that needs to be covered, and the type of adhesive mixture.

Option #2. This option allows you to calculate the amount of cement-based adhesive - it is not very accurate, but it will give at least some kind of reference point for inexperienced installers.

Initial data: weight of the ready-to-use adhesive mixture, tile dimensions, layer thickness, conditions (temperature, base surface) most favorable for tiling. For example, the weight of the glue is 1.5 kg, the size of the tiles is 30 by 30, the standard layer thickness is 4 mm. You need to multiply 1.5 by 4, the result will be 6 kg - this will be the required glue consumption per square meter. Accordingly, under other conditions and parameters, the amount of the mixture may increase or decrease.

Option #3. It allows you to find out how much glue you will need for specific type tiles - it is best if the material is already available. Half the thickness of one tile in millimeters must be multiplied by the average consumption of a specific brand of glue (you can find it out from the instructions or on the manufacturer’s website), but the result can be very approximate.

Step-by-step instructions for laying tiles

Today, when mixtures for laying tiles are very easy to prepare, it is quite possible to lay tiles with your own hands, even without experience and relevant knowledge. However, in order for the tiled surface to be smooth and attractive, you must strictly follow the appropriate instructions.

Stage one. Preparing the tiles

• the length of one row does not always coincide with total length tiles (especially where there are niches, sinks, pipes, etc.), it will need to be trimmed - this is done with a tile cutter or glass cutter;

• After determining the required number of tiles, it is recommended to add 10-15% to them - in case any tiles are damaged, for future repairs or in case of defective products.

Before starting work, it is necessary to determine the technique for performing the work and draw up a laying diagram (especially if you plan to lay out any drawing or ornament). If you need to tile the walls, work starts from the far bottom corner, but in the case of floor covering cladding options can be different (from the middle, from the walls, from the corner).

Stage two. Preparing the base

This is one of key points, on which the final result largely depends. Qualified craftsmen divide surfaces into simple and complex: the first type includes smooth surfaces that practically do not absorb glue, and the second includes uneven surfaces with serious differences, as well as those made of porous materials. Accordingly, preparing the base for the tile depends on its type and features.

Uneven surface

Laying tiles on an uneven surface entails the most expense, and sometimes this concerns not only the amount of adhesive, but also future repairs if the work is carried out incorrectly. Before you begin cladding, you need to thoroughly inspect the base and remove any old finishing and clean problem areas - for example, if there are pieces of concrete or brick on the wall that could fall off along with the tiles, it is recommended to remove them and seal the holes with putty.

As soon as it dries, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned of dirt and dust. After this, treat the surface with a primer (the choice of brand depends on the adhesive composition for the tile) and make markings.

An important point: if the wall is very uneven, you will have to apply a thick layer of glue to some areas, which can cause the tiles to slide off before the mortar “sets.” In this case, you should use a rail that will hold the tiles in place - it is screwed in place where the bottom row will be located.

Concrete

If the concrete base is level, then laying tiles will be sufficient simple process– it needs to be thoroughly cleaned, a primer applied, and then proceed directly to the cladding.

Dye

It is best to remove old paint from walls, even if this is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Today there are many solutions that allow you to get rid of the finish - just treat the wall with them, and then remove the paint with a spatula, scraper or construction hairdryer. If the surface is painted, as they say, conscientiously, that is, it holds very firmly, there is an alternative option - to make notches with an ax at intervals of 2 cm.

Plaster

Laying tiles on plaster is only possible when following conditions: it is applied with high quality, with preliminary cleaning of surfaces and primer coating, laid at least two weeks before the start of work, and the height difference does not exceed 3 mm.

Old plaster that has partially crumbled or is crumbling is best cleaned off.

Drywall

The main problem with tiling plasterboard walls is that the sheets may warp and the tiles will fall off. To prevent such a defect, it is recommended to strengthen the surface - for this, special guide strips are used, which are inserted at intervals of 40 cm (if the drywall is too thin, the distance can be reduced).

For similar purposes, polypropylene mesh is used, which is glued to sheets or fastened with staples, and some craftsmen use both strips and mesh for reliability. Another option is to install another layer of drywall.

Important: you need to apply the primer on a plasterboard wall in two layers, and each of them should be allowed to dry for 40-60 minutes.

Old tile

As with old paint and plaster, it is best to remove old tiles from walls. This is not the most technically complex, but labor-intensive and noisy process, for which you will need a small hatchet with a wide blade, or a hammer with a chisel (sometimes a hammer drill is used). You need to beat off the tiles, starting from the top row and gradually going down. Sometimes you have to break the first tile completely, after which the work will become easier - you just need to drive a hatchet blade or chisel between the tile and the glue, and then try to separate the tiles from the wall with strong but gentle blows.

If for any reason dismantled old tile impossible, new tiles placed on top of such finishing. In order for the cladding to hold tightly and reliably, a number of conditions must be met. First of all, carefully tap each tile: if the sound is dull, it will hold well, but if it is loud, it is better to dismantle it. Before starting work, it is good to treat the surface with a special primer, and to attach the tiles, use only elastic adhesive with a high degree of adhesion, so that the adhesion strength is as high as possible. If you use a harsh mixture, the new cladding will crack over time.

Wood and plywood

Laying tiles on wooden surface- a rather difficult but doable task. The first option for performing the work is to install plasterboard slabs on top wooden covering, after which the surface is prepared as described above.

The second method consists of several stages: first, the wood is treated with antiseptic compounds to avoid rotting. Next, roofing felt or roofing felt is laid on it so that the base does not crack or warp, after which the walls are sheathed wooden slats, attach a plaster mesh to the frame, apply cement mortar and plaster the entire structure (the layer of plaster should not exceed 20 mm). After complete drying, you can begin tiling.

Video - Screed on a wooden surface

Video - Bathroom in a wooden house

It is not recommended to use gas- and foam concrete bases, as well as chipboard, as a base for tiling walls. Aerated concrete and foam concrete are too porous, loose surfaces that need to be treated with expensive waterproofing compounds, and the finish will hold up very poorly even when using an expensive adhesive. If there is no other alternative, pre-treated plywood sheets should be laid on the base. Chipboards also require careful processing, so finishing this material with tiles is not economically feasible.

Stage three. Preparing the adhesive mixture

The first thing to remember when preparing glue is that the remaining mixture will have to be thrown away, as it will harden and will not be suitable for use. That is, in order to save money, you need to correctly calculate the amount of glue that will be required for the job. If glue is used in powder form, it should be diluted with water, sometimes with the addition of other components. On average, the proportions are as follows: 25 kg of mixture per 5.5-6 liters of water (more precisely, you can see on the packaging). Mix the solution by hand or mechanically, vigorously enough for at least 5 minutes until you get a homogeneous creamy mass.

Applying adhesive to the wall

It is not necessary to apply the solution to the tiles, but some types of tiles (for example, bicottura) are recommended to be moistened with water before installation. Seams 2-3 mm thick are left between the tiles - to make them uniform and even, you can use forming crosses.

If the tile needs to be cut, it is done as follows: it must be placed on a flat surface, the cut location must be marked, a glass cutter or tile cutter should be drawn along it, then it should be gently hit flat on the floor. The tile should crack where it is cut.

After laying each unit, you need to press it with your hands or some object and remove the remaining mortar before it hardens. Having finished working with five rows of tiles, you need to take an hour break so that the glue sets well and the lower rows do not slide down under the weight of the upper rows.

While performing work, you should regularly check with a level the evenness of the installation. To ensure that the tiles are laid as evenly as possible, it is best to initially mark the zero level and carry out the markings using a building level. After the surface is completely covered, you need to wait until the glue hardens well (usually this takes about 24 hours).

Error in laying tiles - uneven seam

Stage five. Filling joints with grout

Grout mixture for joints can also be purchased at any store and prepared as follows: pour the mixture into a bucket of water in the proportions specified in the instructions, mix well, let sit for 5-10 minutes and mix again. Next, fill the seams with the mixture using a rubber spatula, wait 25-30 minutes and remove excess solution with a sponge. Grouting the joints plays a special role - it not only gives the surface an aesthetic appearance, but also allows you to mask installation defects.

Grouting tile joints and execution technique, stages 5-8

Tiling a bathroom with ceramic tiles is not an easy and quite labor-intensive task. However, if you choose the right adhesive mixture and follow the step-by-step instructions for the work, the tile will hold firmly and reliably, and appearance The premises will delight the eye for a long time.

Video - How to choose adhesive for regular tiles, porcelain tiles, natural stone or mosaics?