Fixing Natural Stone

Fixing Natural Stone can be a hassle to fix especially when you are unsure of the stone’s properties. So in this blog, we are going to go over some of the issues when fixing natural stone, how to fix it, and the properties of some of the stones. 

The biggest issue when fixing natural stone is determining whether it is moisture-sensitive or not. This is a ‘must know’ in order to be able to choose the right adhesives and products to fix the stone. Moisture from traditional adhesives and grouts can migrate into moisture-sensitive stone causing discolouration, staining, and possibly warping. Two possible adhesives to use for moisture-sensitive stones are ARDEX Natural Stone Tile Adhesive and ARDEX MG Tile Grout. Both mixtures have a rapid dry formula to eliminate stain risks and lock the mix water into the mortar. Then a silicone sealant can be used to finish Fixing Natural Stone. 

If you have mesh-backing on stone wall tiles, the backing needs to be removed with a grinder. Only 25% of the stone backing can be covered with mesh. The stone can be mechanically fixed if the mesh cannot be removed. If the stone tiles are floor tiles, then all of the mesh backings need to be removed. Once removed, the stone tiles can be fixed with a natural stone tile adhesive.

Granite and other heavy-stone floor tiles in a patio area need to be fixed differently. Before fixing the tiles, the concrete base needs to be prepped. The tiles can then be fixed and placed using an appropriate adhesive. Granite is resistant to most acids except hydrofluoric acids. An adhesive that is good for thick bed applications, uncalibrated stone, and does not possess hydrofluoric acid is ideal for this specific project.

Need some more help picking an adhesive to fix your natural stone? Here at Screed Warehouse, we can help answer your questions and make the best decision for your project. Contact us at 0330 118 0952