Which Adhesive and pattern ?

richardw · Jul 25, 2011

Hi Guys,

I'm about to lay porcelain floor tiles ( not polished - about 22 sq mtrs ) they are 600 x 300 and the room is 3m x 7m

Any suggestions on pattern based on previous experience ? I can see patterns like basketweave and herringbone as well as the standard brick - any thoughts ?

Also - will be laying these on concrete once I have the previous quarry tiles up - any recommendations on adhesive type/brand ?

Many Thanks

Ian · Jul 25, 2011

Mapei and BAL adhesives are what I use, both very good. As for the pattern, what about 1/3 bond or random bond? A little different to the usual brick bond and visually nice to look at.

richardw · Jul 25, 2011

Random that's another thought - thanks for that

With regard Mapei adhesive - which would you go for on a concrete floor and how thick can you go ( should I need to ? )

peteablard · Jul 25, 2011

I've always been a brick bond fan but seen a few pics of random jobs on here and it looks good. Might suggest it on the next one...

Peter Howe · Jul 25, 2011

I agree with Brian on this one, a random brick bond would suit this job ideally. As a bonus it cuts down on wastage too! With regards to adhesive I would always go with a flexible even on a concrete floor as it has an additive that give extra adhersion and of course you could always use a porcellbond adhesive which also has an additive. A solid bed 10mm notcheed trowel should do the trick, this will reduce down to approximately 6mm. As far as the grout joint goes I never go any wider than 3 mm. Any wider just doesnt loog good anymore and you dont want to detract from your tiles. It just looks classier. Hope this helps. Peter.

richardw · Jul 25, 2011

thanks guys - much appreciated

The Legend; Phil Hobson RIP · Jul 25, 2011

Mapei Keraquick 10mm max thickness, you can get pourable thick bed adhesive. Brick bond with 600mmx 300mm can be a pain, if there is any bowing in the tile, might be safer with third bond or quarter bond.

Also concrete is rearly flat enough to tile on direct, may need slc (self leveling compound) imo.

Good luck.