Matrix Victoria Purple Gloss Tiles 9.8019.80cm

What tools do I need for mixing adhesive?

If youre new to tiling, and dont have any equipment, we would recommend buying the following prior to mixing and applying your adhesive:

• Bucket
• Mixing paddle
• Bucket trowel
• Notched trowel
• Protective equipment (such as gloves and googles)
• Cold clean water

Once youve got all your equipment, you are ready to start mixing your adhesive And, to help ensure you have correctly mixed your adhesive, weve created this handy step by step guide. Follow this and you should ready to start applying to your chosen surface and begin tiling.

How to apply tile adhesive: Step by step guide

Step 1

Its really important to follow the manufacturers instructions on the packaging, especially when it comes to how much water to put into your bucket to avoid leaving any powder remaining unmixed.

Step 2

Use a mixing paddle to stir the adhesive, making sure to reach into the sides and base of the bucket. Keep mixing until the adhesive is free of any lumps and is a nice smooth, ice cream style consistency.

Step 3

Given that adhesive is a cement-based product, it tends to set quickly when spread evenly onto the wall (see adhesive packaging for how much work time you have), so stick to a small area at first to master your technique and avoid wasting any mixture.

Regenr8 RMA-43 Standard White S1 Adhesive 20kg

Step 4

Allow 15 30 minutes to apply adhesive as well as fit each square metre of tile. Use a notched trowel to create channels into the adhesive as these give you more grip.

Step 5

Push your tile into the adhesive before sliding it away about 5mm and then back again. This will help secure your tile on the wall and reduce the amount of air that can sit between the tile and the wall.

Step 6

DEX Spacers 3mm

Repeat this process with the next tile, using spacers to separate the tiles as you go until your wall is complete. Make sure to check that the tiles are aligned with the wall using a spirit level. If any adhesive gets into the tiles, remove immediately with a damp sponge. Once youve laid your tiles wipe of any excess adhesive and ensure the joints are clear of adhesive too, then its just a case of putting on the kettle, making a brew and enjoying a well-earned rest, while you wait for the tiles to dry so you can get on with the grouting.

FAQs

How long does it take to apply tile adhesive? 

It takes between 15 30 minutes per square metre to apply your adhesive as well as tiles. 

Do you need to clean your tiles after applying them to your adhesive?

If any adhesive gets into the tiles, remove immediately with a damp sponge. Once youve laid your tiles wipe of any excess adhesive and ensure the joints are clear of adhesive too before allowing to dry.

Watch our video 

If you still need help with mixing tile adhesive, why not our watch our video. Tile Warehouse has teamed up with YouTuber to show you how to mix as well as apply tile adhesive at home. 

Need more information?

If you have any questions regarding using tile adhesive, then feel free to contact our Customer Services team using our web chat facility.

Further reading

If you would like to learn more about fitting tiles in your home, then why not check out these related advice articles:

What is the best adhesive for tiling a wall?

What is the best adhesive for tiling a floor?