Which Tile Adhesive Is Best? A Guide To Classification Of Adhesives And Grouts
21/11/2024Choosing the right tile adhesive and tile grout is as critical as selecting the perfect tiles. Whether you're renovating a sleek bathroom, laying underfloor heating, or planning an outdoor tiling garden project, the tile adhesive and tile grout you choose play a vital role in the longevity of your tiled areas.
We understand the challenges of navigating the wide variety of tile adhesives and grouts available on the market. From heat resistant tile adhesive, ready mixed or powdered tile adhesive, flexible tile adhesive options for underfloor heating and specialised adhesives for challenging substrates, knowing the classifications—such as S1 tile adhesive and S2 tile adhesive—can make all the difference in achieving professional results.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essential classifications of adhesives and grouts, explaining what they mean and how to choose the right products for your project.
Tile Adhesive Classification: What Tile Adhesive To Use
When trying to decide on which tile adhesive is for you, knowing the classification and what that means is helpful so that you make an informed decision on an adhesive that suits your project needs. Below are a couple of tables that advise on each tile adhesive classification type, as well as their optional characteristics:
Type | Class | Description |
D | 1 | Normal Dispersion Adhesive |
D | 1T | Normal Dispersion Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
D | 2 | Improved Dispersion Adhesive |
D | 2T | Improved Dispersion Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
D | 2TE | Improved Dispersion Adhesive With Reduced Slip & Extended Open Time |
C | 1 | Normal Cementitious Adhesive |
C | 1F | Normal Fast Setting Cementitious Adhesive |
C | 1T | Normal Cementitious Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
C | 1FT | Normal Fast Setting Cementitious Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
C | 2 | Improved Cementitious Adhesive |
C | 2E | Improved Cementitious Adhesive With Extended Open Time |
C | 2F | Improved Fast Setting Cementitious Adhesive |
C | 2T | Improved Cementitious Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
C | 2TE | Improved Cementitious Adhesive With Reduced Slip & Extended Open Time |
C | 2FT | Improved Fast-Setting Cementitious Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
C | 2-S1 | Improved Deformable Cementitious Adhesive |
C | 2-S2 | Improved Highly Deformable Cementitious Adhesive |
R | 1 | Normal Reaction Resin Adhesive |
R | 1T | Normal Reaction Resin Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
R | 2 | Improved Reaction Resin Adhesive |
R | 2T | Improved Reaction Resin Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
Classification | Optional Characteristics |
D = Dispersion 1 = Normal Dispersion 2 = Improved Dispersion | F = Fast Setting Adhesive T = Adhesive With Reduced Slip |
C = Cementitious 1 = Normal Cementitious 2 = Improved Cementitious | E = Adhesive With Extended Open Time S = Adhesive With Deformability |
R = Reactive 1 = Normal Reactive Resin 2 = Improved Reactive Resin | S1 = Deformation >2.5mm But <5mm S2 = Deformation >5mm |
Two of the most well-known and popular tile adhesive classifications are S1 tile adhesive and S2 tile adhesive. We stock an extensive range of S1 and S2 tile adhesives from industry-leading brands, as well as all of the tiling tools you need to mix and apply your chosen adhesive, such as paddle mixers & whisks to tiling trowels, and mixing buckets & tubs. Here’s all the key information you need to know about S1 tile adhesive, S2 tile adhesive and the difference between S1 and S2 tile adhesive:
S1 Tile Adhesive | S2 Tile Adhesive |
What Is The Difference Between S1 And S2 Tile Adhesive? The main difference between S1 and S2 tile adhesives lies in their flexibility and ability to handle movement and deformation. | |
What Is S1 Tile Adhesive? S1 tile adhesive is a flexible, cement-based adhesive designed specifically for tiling surfaces that are subject to movement, vibration, or temperature changes. The "S1" classification refers to the adhesive's flexibility rating, as defined by European Standard EN 12004. Using S1 tile adhesive helps improve the longevity of tiled surfaces, especially in conditions where movement, moisture, or temperature variations are expected. | What Is S2 Tile Adhesive? S2 tile adhesive is a highly flexible, cement-based adhesive with a superior level of deformability compared to S1 adhesive. The "S2" classification, as per the EN 12004 standard, signifies that the adhesive has a deformation capacity greater than 5 mm, making it suitable for substrates or environments that experience significant movement or expansion and contraction. |
Key Features of S1 Tile Adhesive:
| Key Features of S2 Tile Adhesive
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Applications
| Applications
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S1 Tile Adhesive Flexibility: Offers moderate flexibility with a deformation capability up to 2.5 mm. | S2 Tile Adhesive Flexibility: Provides high flexibility with a deformation capability of greater than 5 mm. |
S1 Adhesive Usage: Works well for standard indoor and outdoor tiling, including heated floors, wet areas, and large-format tiles where there is moderate movement or expansion. | S2 Adhesive Usage: Suitable for challenging environments such as:
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In summary, S1 tile adhesive is best for standard applications with moderate flexibility needs, while S2 tile adhesive is ideal for areas requiring maximum flexibility and durability due to significant movement, temperature changes, or high moisture. | |
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To provide you with the ultimate guide to which classification of tile adhesive you need, here are our suggested tile adhesive options by classification, categorised by brand:
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Grout Classification: Which Tile Grout Is Best?
Moving on from tile adhesive to tile grout, the logic stands that knowing the grout classification and what that means is always helpful when selecting the appropriate tile grout for your project so that you make an informed decision. Below are a couple of tables that advise on each tile grout classification type, as well as our suggested tile grout options by classification, categorised by brand:
Type | Class | Description |
CG | 1 | Normal Cementitious Grout |
CG | 2W | Improved Cementitious Grout With Additional Characteristics Of Reduced Water Absorption |
CG | 2A | Improved Cementitious Grout With Additional Characteristics Of High Abrasion Resistance |
CG | 2WA | Improved Cementitious Grout With Additional Characteristics Of Reduced Water Absorption And High Abrasion Resistance |
RG | Reaction Resin Grout |
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Tile Adhesive & Tile Grout Classification Glossary
Tile Adhesive Classification | Tile Grout Classification |
Dispersion - Dispersion tile adhesive is a water-based, organic adhesive that's made by dispersing polymers in a liquid | Cementitious - Cementitious grout is a cement-based material that's used to fill cracks and voids, bond concrete elements, and stabilize soils. It's made by mixing cement, water, fine aggregates, and chemical admixtures. When the cement hydrates, the grout hardens into a rigid material. |
Deformation - the action or process of deforming or distorting | Abrasion - Abrasion grout is a type of grout that has high resistance to abrasion, or wear and tear, from foot traffic and other sources |
Pot Life - The period of time during which a material maintains its workable properties after it has been mixed. | Shelf Life - Maximum period for which a material may be stored and remain in a usable state. |
Epoxy Adhesive - Epoxy adhesive is a structural adhesive that's made from a mixture of resin and hardener that's used to bond a variety of materials together | Epoxy Grout - Epoxy grout is a durable, water-resistant, and stain-resistant grout made from epoxy resins and a filler powder. It's used to fill gaps between tiles and create a smooth, even surface. |
Reduced Slip - Reduced slip adhesive, also known as T-type adhesive, is a type of tile adhesive that helps keep tiles in place while the adhesive sets, especially when applying larger or heavier tiles to walls | Shelf Life - Maximum period for which a material may be stored and remain in a usable state. |
Normal Reaction vs Improved Reaction - Similar to the cementitious rating (S1 & S2), Improved Reaction is a higher-rated Resin adhesive with improved flexibility. | Reduced Water Absorption - Reduced water absorption grout is a type of grout that is designed to absorb less water, making it suitable for wet environments. Grout with reduced water absorption is also known as CG2W. |
Substrate - The underlying support for tiles to be installed on. | High Abrasion Resistance - High abrasion resistance grout is a type of grout that is designed to be resistant to abrasion. It can be used in a variety of applications, including residential and commercial buildings |
Brick Slip Adhesive - Brick slip adhesive is a specialized adhesive used to attach brick slips to a variety of surfaces, such as plasterboard, brick, and concrete blockwork. It's designed to be flexible, handle heavy weights, and resist environmental factors. | Reaction Resin Grout - Reaction resin grout is a high-performance grout that hardens through a chemical reaction between two components. It's often used in industrial and commercial settings to lay tiles on various substrates. Reaction resin grout is known for its fast, shrinkage-free hardening, and its ability to adhere to smooth, impervious, and vibrating surfaces. |
Bedding Mortar - Bedding mortar is a high-cement material that's used to create a stable layer beneath pavers, tiles, and other materials, and to increase the strength of joints |
Knowing which classification of tile grout or tile adhesive is right for your tiling project is essential. By following this guide, you can approach your tiling confidently, ensuring you have the right classification and brand for your unique needs as a DIYer, on a larger residential scale, or for a more commercial setting.
Should you need any tile grout or tile adhesive classification advice or support with your order, don’t hesitate to contact us via email at [email protected] or call 01604 859800.