Here are some of our most frequently asked questions, if you have one that’s not listed please get in touch.
Why can’t I just ‘dot and dab’?
Several reasons:
Sand and cement mortar will not adhere properly to the back of a porcelain tile.
Placing individual porcelain tiles onto a dot and dab bed with narrow joints is time consuming and difficult to avoid lipping.
Dot and dab will have variable sized dabs which can lead to instability.
Dot and dab has a track record of failure and is poor practice.
Why do I have to wait for each Adped to dry before fixing?
You cannot lay a porcelain tile directly onto the Adpeds sand and cement bed as the screed mix will not adhere to the porcelain tile.
Each Adped will have up to 4 tiles resting on it and each of these tiles could be fixed 10-40 minutes after the last. When fixing each tile it would squeeze up the adjacent tile making accurate fixing almost impossible, or the mix could already have hardened.
Can I use sand for my sub base?
No, water and insects can move sand which will lead to the Adpeds being under-mined and the porcelain slabs will then start to move.
My sub base is a bit up and down, can I make the difference up with the Adpeds?
No, while the Adpeds can make up minor differences it is important to get the Sub Base laid accurately. Invest time on preparation to save you time later.
Why does the sub base need to be permeable?
In exceptional cases water can work its way into the void under the tiles. The sub base needs to be permeable to stop any water collecting which could damage the integrity of the system if the water freezes.
Can I grout on a hot summers day?
Avoid grouting when the sun has made the tiles hot to touch as this can make the grout flash dry making it hard to remove. On a summers day grout early before the tiles have had time to heat up.
Can I use building sand and cement or mortar mix in the Adpeds?
No, the strength of a building sand mortar bed is insufficient.
Can I use a concrete mix or fence post mix in the Adpeds?
No, concrete is not suitable as an infill.
Can the system be used on roof terraces and balconies?
No, for the following reasons;
Balconies and roof terraces often use materials that move with temperature and moisture (such as timber). This would result in the grout joints opening up as the underlying surface moves.
A roof terrace or balcony is a non permanent surface. Every few years the balcony or flat roof will need to be renewed. A porcelain surface is permanent. For balconies and roof terraces use plastic pedestals such as Eterno Ivica.
Can it be used on an old patio surface?
Yes, if the surface is sound, it runs to falls and the underlying patio can be allowed to drain.
Can you lay oblong tiles and planks with a broken bond?
Yes, but anything apart from a 50% broken bond will make the Adped laying pattern extremely complex. However, porcelain planks will often have a degree of bend, so if laid with a 50% bond and a narrow joint there could be lipping. If you wish to lay with a 50% bond dry lay the tiles on a flat surface to see if the effect is acceptable.
How easy is it to snap an Adped?
Easy! Just twist and snap.
What guarantee do you offer?
A full 25 year guarantee which can be downloaded here.
Where can I buy PorcelQuick Adped products?
A variety of online stores and trade counters nationwide.
Can I use brush in grout?
No, they all need a minimum grout depth of 20-25mm and they have little adhesion to the tile’s side wall. Tiling specific grouts are much stronger and more resistant to jet washing.
I want to put a light cream grout with my cream tiles, is this OK?
Yes, but external grout will tend to turn grey with time so a grey grout may be best.
Why do I need to use Grout Backer Rod?
Grout Backer Rod is compressed into the joints to stop the grout falling into the void underneath. The correct Grout Backer Rod for the correct joint thickness is essential.