Exterior tiles are increasingly being specified to complement interior flooring, creating a more seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. As a result, expectations around performance have risen, with durability, slip resistance and weather resistance now considered essential requirements rather than optional features.
Alongside aesthetics, the importance of using a suitable and compatible installation system has become central to achieving long-term success in exterior projects. This section explores exterior tiling from multiple perspectives, including installation systems, surface treatment and cleaning, material performance, its benefits, industry insight and current market trends.
Problem-proof tiling outside with Kerakoll
LEVELFLEX External is a rapid-setting self-levelling compound specifically developed for use outside and in areas submerged in water. It incorporates Frost Protect, a blend of additives specially selected to prevent frost damage during the freeze-thaw process when used externally, says Kerakoll. Levelflex External is ideal for use in wet areas and swimming pools as part of the Kerakoll swimming pool system as it’s described to maintain performance, even when submerged.
Adds Kerakoll: ‘It can be used in thicknesses from 2mm – 50mm and has a 25-minute wet edge time with a three hour wait before tiling. It can also be used as a wearing surface in areas exposed to light to medium foot traffic.
‘Once the surface is dry, lay the tiles with any of Kerakoll’s Setaflex range of adhesives, all of which are suitable for external use. You can choose the speed of Setaflex Rapid which is ready for grouting after approximately three hours at 23deg C, and has a pot life of 30 minutes, or the convenience of Setaflex Standard with its extended pot life of around three – four hours and a wait of 24 hours before grouting. Alternatively, you can get the perfect balance between speed and convenience and use Setaflex Semi-rapid, which has an extended pot life of 90 – 120 minutes but is still ready for grouting after six hours.’
Finally fill the joints with Grout 3000 in a colour that matches the tiles. This range is said to be frost resistant and suitable for outside use.
01772 456831
info@kerakoll.co.uk
www.kerakoll.com
