FAQ

Waterproofing can be defined as a process in which first we clean the surface. Then apply primer, bond breaker, and waterproofing membrane. This process makes the surface waterproof and ready for applications like bathroom and pools, etc. If waterproofing is not done, then water may seep under the tiling and result in loss of structural integrity.

Waterproofing is generally done over screed or concrete. But virtually any substrate can take waterproofing like structural plywood, composite timber sheets, fibre cement sheet, wet area plasterboard, and whatnot.

Waterproofing can be done in a few easy to follow steps. First clean and dust the surface. Next, apply primer over the whole area that has to be waterproofed. Then apply bond breaker on joints and places prone to building movement. Lastly, apply two coats of waterproofing membranes at 90 Degrees angle to each other.

Building movement can result in waterproofing membrane failure. But bond breakers help use the elastic properties of the membrane to adjust with the building movement. This keeps the waterproofing sturdy and resilient.

Yes, complying with Australian Standards, it is mandatory to apply waterproofing bond breakers. They help accommodate building movement and are compulsory in all areas that have to deal with building movement, like joints, internal corners, etc.

Waterproofing failure can occur due to many reasons. Like, thewaterproofing membrane is not applied correctly, sealant or adhesiveis incompatible with the substrate. Even the wrong application of the bond breaker can be a reason. Any small mistake can lead to the failure of waterproofing.

Liquid rubber is liquid Polyurethane and helps in waterproofing surfaces. Liquid rubber is an easily applied waterproofing solution. The best feature is that it can stick to almost any substrate. Like, wood, tiles, most PVC, cement, etc.

To ensure that liquid rubber bonds well with the surface, we do need to do surface preparation. Like, the surface must be clean of any flaky substance, oils, dust, glossy or loosely bonded paint, varnishes, etc. because liquid rubber cannot stick to oily or smooth and shiny surfaces.

Bituminous waterproofing membranes are membranes made of bitumen which is further modified by polymer-modified plastics. Two types of membranes are available- reinforced and non-reinforced.

Reinforced bituminous waterproofing membranes are preferred because it gives them mechanical strength. Polyester wool and fibreglass are commonly used for the reinforcement of these membranes.

No, it is false. Bituminous membranes are very sturdy, and they do not melt in warm weather. Bituminous membranes need a very high temperature to melt, and that cannot be provided by warm weather although they can get a bit soft. But, this does not impact their structural integrity.

Glazed ceramic tiles are those ceramic tiles that are covered by glaze. Glaze here is a covering of liquid glass. Glazing can be done over both ceramic as well as porcelain tiles. Glazing is essential because it makes them water-resistant and stain-resistant. In short,it makes it suitable for usage in wet areas.

Mosaic tiles are small tiles that are of varied design, colour, and type, all combined to form a design. Their variety makes them suitable to fit any décor. They look lovely, and the designs you can form from them are only subject to the imagination. Also, sometimes they come laid on sheets. This makes them very easy to install.

Vitrified tile is the one that has very very less water-absorption. It also gives a glossy finish and is scratch-resistant too. Vitrified tiles are usually made by mixing clay with feldspar, quartz, or other minerals.

A rectified tile is a tile that has undergone a unique ‘grinding’ process. This grinding process makes the edge of the tile smooth and even by grinding away the irregularities. When rectified tiles are tiled, they render a single tile/stone look. Because they require very less grout, thus, it creates a single panel look.

Many types of tiles are available in the market these days. Like, porcelain, ceramic, brick, mosaic, and various stone tiles. But which one you choose depends on your preferred colour, price range, size, etc. The texture is also a key factor.

There is a vast difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles. Their manufacturing process is different. Porcelain tiles are made to be more durable and sturdy. Also, porcelain isdenser, which makes it harder to lay. Finally, ceramic tiles owe their colour to the glazing on top. But porcelain tiles have designs that are spread throughout the tile.

An excellent solution to this problem is mosaic tiles. Mosaic tiles are small tiles that are a combination of different colours, types, and sizes put together. That is some tiles can be glass, some ceramic, some porcelain. All combined to craft a design. Mosaic tiles are so varied that they can help make any design and match any existing décor. Also, sometimes they come in sheets, which are easier to lay.

Glass tiles are small tiles that are usually dark coloured. This dark colour gives the pool depth and a very stylish look. They are made of recycled glass and are an eco-friendly tiling solution. Also, glass tiles are very robust and non-porous. Lastly, they are fit to be used in cold and hot swimming pools too.

The first step is to check that the pool walls are contaminants free. There should be no dust, oil, or efflorescence. If the walls are pre-painted, then sand away all of it. If the surface to be tiled is a concrete shell, then wait for six weeks till it dries and then do primer over it. If the surface to be tiled is cementitious rendering, then let it dry for three weeks. Lastly, apply adhesive and add water-replacement to it.

Shower tiles need to be water-resistant while looking good. Stone and porcelain tiles are great options. While glazed ceramic tiles and glass tiles are also good options. But stone tiles like say quarry needs regular maintenance in the form of sealant application.

A tile adhesive is a pre-mixed paste or a cement mixture that adheres the tile to the surface beneath. Many factors determine which one of the two versions will be used for the project. Like, type of tile (stone, porcelain, ceramic, etc.), area, and the substrate over which the tiling has to be done.

Cement bonds with sand in the presence of water. This bond extends into the substrate and the tiles above. Thus, this cement-sand bond sticks tiles to the substrate below. But, for excellent tiling longevity, the cement, sand, and water ratio must be perfect. Also, factors like humidity and temperature determine the bond quality of cement. If even one of these is not proper, tiling will not be proper.

Many factors affect the bond strength of the tile adhesive. First and foremost, the quality of adhesive matters. Then the area in contact. Next, come the temperature and humidity of the surroundings. The area in contact is maximised by applying the adhesive with a twisting motion. Also, the surroundings should not be of low humidity and have a temperature below 35 Degree Celsius.

In low humidity, water from the tile adhesive evaporates at a faster rate. But cement needs water to make strong bonds that can hold the tiles for long. Without water, the bonds formed are weaker, and this affects the tiling longevity.

In high temperature, the cement and water’s reaction gets paced up. When the reaction occurs at a faster pace, the crystals formed are smaller. These crystals are responsible for bonding the cement with the tile and the substrate.Thus with smaller crystals, weaker bonds are made, and the longevity of tiling gets affected. The optimum temperature for tiling is below 35 Degree Celsius.

The first step is to check that the existing wooden flooring is well braced at a maximum stretch of 300mm. Next, you need to sand the surface of any wax or polish, etc. Now, apply primer over the whole area. Finally, it’s time to apply adhesive and lay the tiles.

Firstly, check the current tiling is sturdy. That is, they cling correctly to the surface beneath. If not, then re-tile that tile or fill screed in that place. Let the repairs set. Now, acid-wash the surface and see to it that it is free of any oil, grease, etc. Later wash the surface with cold water to remove any residues of polish or grease. Now, it’s time to apply adhesive and laying tiling.

A tile shower replacement is costly. The primary reason is that it involves a lot of work from waterproofing to levelling to re-tiling. A lot of effort and material go in replacing a tile shower. Thus, it is best to do it right for the first time, and according to Australian Standards. It saves a lot of money and inconvenience.

Epoxy grout. Epoxy grout is the best type of grout for shower tiles. It is remarkably resilient. Also, it is very less absorbent. Thus, it stains very less too. Epoxy grout is excellent for applications like kitchens, bathrooms, and even heavy-duty applications like public toilets, hospitals, etc.

Ceramic tiles if glazed are an excellent choice for shower walls. Glazed ceramic tiles are sturdier than our antique cups and urns. They have enough water-resistance to be used in shower walls and other bathroom applications.

Remodelling and renovation are the same but just differ on the scale of work being undertaken. When it is a more uncomplicated makeover, like changing a sink or just re-tiling or merely playing with some decorative items, it is called a renovation. But if you do a more elaborate makeover, then it is called a renovation.

A bathroom renovation is changing the look of your bathroom by doing one or more of the following things. Like, changing the tiling of the bathroom, changing the fixtures like sinks, showerheads, bathtub, changing the setting of sinks and bathtub, etc. You can even play with the lighting as even that is a significant factor.

Well, it depends. If you are going for an ultra-luxurious look or a very extensive makeover of your bathroom, then it is better to have a plan set for your bathroom before commencing the work. Because that will help the final result look more consistent. But otherwise, if the work is not that extensive, you can always work as you progress.

Central Coast Tiling Pro is a respected and reputed firm of the city’s tiling industry. We have spent years doing tiling and waterproofing projects. And a few things we have learnt from our experience is in-depth knowledge of our field and to make healthy,sustainable relationships with our clients. We assure you that there will be no nasty surprises at any point in time. Also, we provide excellent workmanship with an eye to detail.