Surface Preparation for ARDEX Indortec Flexbone Matting – VA
General Guidelines:
- Surface Requirements: Ensure that all surfaces to be tiled are flat to SR1 tolerance, as outlined in BS 5385-3. Substrates must be clean, dry, sound, and free from contamination. They must also be stable enough to support tiling. Any uneven surfaces should be primed and leveled with appropriate ARDEX products such as ARDITEX NA, ARDEX K 40 FLOW, or ARDEX K 40 HB before installing ARDEX Indortec Flexbone Matting – VA. It is crucial to select the correct ARDEX flexible cement-based adhesive for the installation.
- Temperature Constraints: ARDEX Indortec Flexbone Matting – VA and tiles should not be installed in temperatures below 5°C to ensure proper setting and performance.
- Application Areas: This matting is suitable for use in internal wet areas and high-load environments such as airports, car showrooms, and shopping centers. It absorbs lateral movement tensions and bridges stress cracks, preventing these from affecting the surface covering.
- Substrate Specifics: For different substrate types, specific preparation steps include:
- Tongue and Grooved Timber/Plywood: Ensure boards are flat, dry, and securely fixed. Sand the surface and remove coatings. Use ARDEX AF 200 PLUS with a B1 or 2mm x 6mm V-shaped notched trowel for adhesion.
- Fibre Reinforced Cement Boards: Install boards to BS 5385 standards and ensure no protruding fixings. Prime with ARDEX P 51 if required and adhere the matting with a cementitious adhesive.
- Existing Tiles: Verify the existing finish is firmly adhered. If areas are loose, remove them and repair with ARDEX A 46 or A 38 screed.
- Concrete and Cement Screeds: Ensure the substrate is load-bearing. Use ARDITEX NA or ARDEX K 40 FLOW to level if needed, and install the matting after 4 hours at 20°C with a suitable ARDEX adhesive.
- Calcium Sulfate/Anhydrite Screeds: Dry the screed per manufacturer’s instructions, remove weak surface layers, and prime with ARDEX P 51 before applying the matting.
- Mastic Asphalt: Ensure the asphalt is in suitable condition, level to SR1 tolerance, and remove any loose material or debris. Smooth asphalt may need priming with ARDEX P 82 Primer.
Application Steps:
- Prepare the Substrate: Ensure it is even and load-bearing. Prime or level as needed with ARDEX products.
- Cut and Lay Matting: Roll out the matting, cut to size, and trim excess. Maintain a 6mm movement joint around the perimeter or use ARDEX Aquadrain Edge foam strip.
- Adhesive Application: Apply a thin layer of ARDEX flexible tile adhesive using a 4mm x 4mm toothed trowel. Lay the matting into the adhesive, ensuring full contact and no air pockets.
- Tile Installation: Once the matting is set, apply tiles with a suitably sized notched trowel. Ensure the adhesive bed does not exceed 6-8mm, and consider extra adhesive for filling bone-shaped cavities.
Waterproofing and Finishing:
- Waterproofing: For damp substrates, apply ARDEX SK-12 tape and ARDEX WPC Grey to membrane edges and joints. Allow the tape and adhesive to dry overnight before tiling.
- Final Steps: Follow all manufacturer’s instructions for adhesive use and adhere to industry standards for tile fixing.
For additional details on specific backgrounds and preparation methods, consult the ARDEX Technical Advisory and Specification Service.
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