FAQ’s

ABC-Faqs

FAQ’s

Can ABC Tile Adhesive be used directly after waterproofing?…

Did you know…

...why ABC tile adhesive heavy-duty is a must

 Nowadays high quality tiles have very low porosity, almost like glass. Tile manufacturers apply a thin coating of wax at the back of the tile, which makes the tile water resistant and prevents discoloration. This causes the tile to be slippery and much more difficult to bond with the substrate. It is now, more than ever necessary to use a strong tile adhesive rather than ordinary cement. ABC Tile Adhesive Heavy-Duty provides mechanical & chemical bonding to ensure proper adhesion.

Use ABC Tile Adhesive Heavy-Duty for

  •  all low porosity tile types and sizes inclusive of large format tiles
  •  non-concrete tiling (gypsum board, fiber cement, wood, metal, existing tiles, etc.) outdoor
  •  tiling as well as building facades and stone cladding

 

...that there 2 easy steps to prevent cracks on walls

Regular mortar has a tendency to lose its bonding strength over time. Because regular mortar is not resistant to cracks, it will not stop thin plastering or paint from cracking. To prevent such unwanted cracks use Zembond, which modifies your mortar to make it crack resistant. A strong plaster reflects on your finishing (such as skimcoating before painting), making it long lasting & crack-free. Adding Zembond also increases the mortar’s bonding strength.

White colored skim coat is not only time saving, it is also economical. You save on labor & material costs. Zemcoat is compatible with masonry paints for direct application. No need for concrete neutralizer, concrete putty and sanding (for surface corrections). A thin layer of paint will perfectly seal the silky smooth skimcoat finish. Ideal for thin plastering before painting walls, ceilings, columns and beams to achieve a superior finish.

...you can feel cool & save energy at the same time

ABC Phil., Inc.’s contribution to the country’s various Go Green campaigns, is to promote eco-friendly products. In this era, where effects of global warming have become reality, the rising temperature has added to the increasing cost of energy to shelter us from heat. To address this concern, ABC has developed Thermoshield – a high quality insulating mortar, designed to shield your walls and ceilings to achieve cooler surroundings. Applying Thermoshield as replacement to regular mortar plaster on your outside walls, makes your structure 7x more resistant to heat / sun exposure. Thermoshield delivers function without compromising the design of your structure. Use Thermoshield today to lower your cooling costs & increase your pocket savings. As an added benefit, the non-combustible components which make up Thermoshield, make it harder for fire to penetrate through your walls, for safer living conditions.

...multibond is toluene free

 Toluene is a liquid used in gasoline, paints, coatings, furnishings, inks and cleaning agents. Studies have shown that exposure to high levels of Toluene can harm the central nervous system causing dizziness, headache, respiratory infection, and other more serious complications. As a pioneer in Innovative Building Materials, ABC Phil., Inc. has developed a Toluene Free product to create a safe and hazard free environment during installations and renovations. ABC Multibond is a water-based vinyl tile, carpet and wood parquet adhesive with 2x higher adhesive strength than contact cement or PVAC. It is suitable for direct installation of all rubber back or wood finishes. It can also be used to correct minor surface imperfections or as gap fillers. ABC Multibond is a strong adhesive, free from the adverse effects of Toluene, creating a safer environment for your easy Vinyl or Parquet installation fixes.

...firestop sealant can delay spread of fire/smoke by 4 hours

Unforeseen events catch us unprepared, but thinking ahead may save you and your family from danger. Prevent the spread of smoke and fire by using ABC Firestop Sealant. This fire rated acrylic gap filler is non combustible and flexible to fill ducting openings, pipes and jambs where fire or smoke may pass through. Flames need oxygen to spread. Filling unwanted gaps with ABC Firestop Sealant enables you to starve the flames from oxygen, which results in a delay of up to four hours. It is good to have added protection which ABC Firestop Sealant can give, so your family can safely sleep at night.

Tiling Solutions

Can ABC Tile Adhesive be used directly after waterproofing?

Yes, if ABC Aquashield Plus cementitious waterproofing was used, then after 3-7 days curing time it is ready to accept a tile installation using ABC Tile Adhesive Heavy Duty.

Is it feasible to tile over an existing wood parquet installation?

Tiling over wood is possible, provided the surface is structurally sound and stable and all of the wooden pieces are properly adhered to the concrete surface below. Tiling over non-concrete surfaces

Will ABC Tile Adhesive retain its adhesive strength if it is mixed with ordinary mortar?

ABC Tile Adhesive should never be mixed or stretched with ordinary mortar. Only by following correct application procedures and proper mixing ratios you will achieve the best quality performance for all ABC products.

Can you mix different ABC Tile Grout to achieve a different color?

No. ABC Tile Grout is blended and mixed using highly sophisticated factory mixing and dispersing equipment. To manually mix grouts will not disperse pigments properly and will just result in inconsistent shades and color migration. Our rigorous quality control procedures safeguard product consistency, meeting the strictest international standards.

What causes tile grout discoloration?

a.) Improper mixing such as the use of contaminated water, rusty tools or a dirty container. To ensure proper mixing, mix in a plastic container and allow to stand about 5-10 minutes, remix and apply; b.) Contaminants coming from painting works.

How can tile grout discoloration be prevented?

Follow these simple reminders: a.) Use only non-absorbent materials such as plastic pail or galvanized iron sheet as mixing base; b). Use the exact mixing ratio to prevent excess liquid in mixed grout; c.) Follow the proper mixing procedure as seen on the instructions of the ABC Tile Grout packaging; d.) If discoloration is due to an accumulation of dust, the grout lines can be cleaned by scrubbing the surface with soap and water.

What is the cause of chipped tile grout?

Chipped grout is a result of inaccurate application. It is important to follow these reminders to ensure the proper application of tile grout; a.) Clean your grout lines before application; b.) Use the proper tools (spatula or grout scraper) to remove excess tile adhesive and other loose or foreign matter along the grout lines prior to grouting; c.) Excessive mortar and dirt will lessen the adhesion of the grout to the tile and substrate. A clean tile joint will ensure tile grout to penetrate and anchor until the substrate; d.) For durable tile installations a minimum tile joint width of 2mm is necessary to accommodate possible tile movement due to thermal deformation, surface shrinkage or tile expansion; e.) Further we recommend to waterproof your tile grout. Use ABC Tile Grout Waterproofing additive to ABC Tile Grout for lasting protection and easy maintenance.

What is the advantage of using ABC Biotech Grout?

ABC Biotech Tile Grout contains anti-bacterial properties against mold and mildew growth. This product is best for use on areas that are frequently exposed to water where strict hygiene is observed such as kitchens and bathrooms. It improves sanitation for hygienic living and provides low maintenance to any tile installation.

What causes cracking along grout lines?

Some typical reasons for cracks in grout are: a.) Before the advent of grouts, cement used as grout will normally crack; b.) Poor tile installation, i.e., tiles are not properly set; c.) Floor or structural movements; d.) Grout joint is too wide. Use of correct grout for specific widths is important. Use sanded grouts for joint width of 7 – 19 mm and regular grouts for joints between 3 – 6 mm; e.) Lack of expansion joints. Provide polyurethane expansion joints 6mm apart or at corners between the wall and floor.

What causes grout powdering?

Most often, powdering is caused by premature drying of grout during installation. One reason is that the grout was mixed on an absorptive surface such as wood or plywood. Grout should be mixed in plastic container. Always make sure to thoroughly mix grout to attain a smooth & lump-free consistency. Never mix an old batch with a newly mixed batch of tile grout.

When do you start grouting?

Apply grout after newly installed tiles have set overnight. Before application make sure that grout lines are clean and free from contaminants. (eg. loose materials, such as Tile Adhesive).

Is there a specific tile grout for floors or for walls?

Floors being horizontal are more exposed to pedestrian traffic, wear and tear, thus the use of dark grout colors is recommended for floor installations. No matter how well floors are maintained, dirt and stains will always be more visible on a floor with light colored grout lines.

Why do installed tiles crack?

Many, many reasons. One is improper bonding of the tile to the substrate. Another could be tile quality. Structural or floor movement is another factor. Ideally, one must study the site conditions very well even before choosing the tiles and deciding on the manner of installation. ABC offers a free pre-inspection service to contractors and homeowners to ensure proper advice on tile installation requirements.

Can you install ceramic tiles over a freshly laid concrete floor or topping?

No. It is always best to wait until a concrete substrate has fully cured (28 days) prior to a tile installation or any other further finishing This is to avoid bonding failure due to premature curing or substrate shrinkage. The key to lasting tile installations is identifying the most suitable tile adhesive variant for your chosen tile, proper application method and correct tools.

Why do tiles delaminate?

Bonding failure due to structural movements, thermal deformation, improper mixing or stretching of tile adhesive, these are just some reasons. Another cause could be the failure to notice the formation of film on tile adhesive, meaning the adhesive past its open time. How to use Tile Adhesive Heavy-Duty

Can you install tiles over existing tiles?

Tile-over-tile installation is possible using Redifix as additive to ABC Tile Adhesive Original. Tiling over non-concrete substrate

Why use tile adhesive instead of the traditional sand and cement mortar?

In the Philippines, tile adhesive has been introduced 35 years ago, hence the degree of awareness among experienced masons and contractors is getting greater. As a general observation, large scale installations such as shopping malls, factory floors, commercial buildings and condominiums have discovered the economy, beauty and practicality in the use of pre-mixed tile adhesive versus on-site sand and cement mortar mixing. The sieving of sand along with its attendant wastages and problem of waste disposal is enough to discourage contractors from using the traditional method. Moreover, advanced construction techniques have resulted in better prepared and level floors that the thin-setting method using tile adhesive is the only way to go.

When use a thin-bed, a medium-bed or a thick-bed for Tile Adhesive mortar?
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What are the advantages of using Multibond?

Its thick “formulation with body” allows it to be spread evenly for a fast & easy installation. Its viscosity allows it to correct minor surface imperfections for an even and professional finish. Unlike other vinyl adhesive, Multibond is eco-friendly and odorless.

Is ABC 2 in 1 suitable for indoor and outdoor mosaic tile installations?

Yes, ABC 2 in 1 Mosaic Tile Adhesive & Grout has built in hydrophobicity property which makes it water resistant hence ideal for indoor & outdoor use.

Is the drypack method recommended for tile and paver installations?

No. Even though for some, drypack is considered an option when dealing with time and budget constraints, however bonding strength, flexibility and durability are compromised. Tile adhesive has a higher tensile and sheer strength than drypack and provides mechanical and chemical bonding to ensure proper and lasting adhesion.

Can drypack be used in combination with tile adhesive?

No. Best practice proves that the use of tile adhesive alone outperforms the drypack method by far.

Finishing Solutions

Do you need to apply a primer before painting over Zemcoat?

No. A primer is not needed to be able to paint over Zemcoat because its low pH level makes it compatible with most masonry paints. However each paint manufacturer has its own primer designed for better adhesion of its paint. The advantage of using white Zemcoat under the primer is that it saves time and money. The silky smooth white finish it provides reduces the number of paint coats to be applied on walls & ceilings. The less layers to be applied, the less material and labor cost you will incur.

What is the purpose of Zembond as bonding slurry?

a.) Increases bonding of mortar plaster to masonry or  raw concrete; b.) Improves bonding strength between new & old plaster; c.) Prevents shrinkage cracking; d.) Reduces brittleness of concrete plaster; e.) Improves the mortar’s water resistance, compressive & tensile strength; f.) Increases concrete abrasion resistance; g.) Eliminates concrete surface roughening; h.) Controls mortar’s water loss for proper curing; i.) Controls temperature cracks on concrete topping; k.) Reduces dust build up on concrete topping. See the link

What are the advantages for using Zembond as additive for plaster?

a.) Increases bonding of mortar plaster to masonry or  raw concrete; b.) Improves bonding strength between new & old plaster; c.) Prevents shrinkage cracking; d.) Reduces brittleness of concrete plaster; e.) Improves the mortar’s water resistance, compressive & tensile strength; f.) Increases concrete abrasion resistance; g.) Eliminates concrete surface roughening; h.) Controls mortar’s water loss for proper curing; i.) Controls temperature cracks on concrete topping; k.) Reduces dust build up on concrete topping. See the link

Waterproofing Solutions

Can we apply Aquashield using a spray or roller?

No. A tampico brush (stiff bristle brush) is the best & fastest tool used to apply Aquashield. This flexible cementitious waterproofing must be applied in two coats and spread in a paint-like manner for 100%  coverage. The coats have to be applied in two directions – horizontal and vertical, to form a weave like coating to ensure flexibility to bridge hairline cracks.

Can Aquaplug dry while immersed in water?

Yes, Aquaplug can dry while immersed in water because it is a rapid -setting hydraulic compound. It can stop running water, seal leaks and seepages through concrete or masonry floors or walls.

What is the minimum gap for Aquaplug?

In order for Aquaplug to properly fill the gap it needs to be able to adhere and anchor to the concrete surface. For gaps with width and depth smaller than 19mm, chisel the hole to make the largest part of the opening and going narrower as it connects to the hole. If hole or crack is not leaking during the time of repair, wet area with water before applying Aquaplug.

Sealing & Gap Filing Solutions

Which paintable sealant can be used to join walls and ceilings?

ABC Acrylic Sealant will fill non-structural gaps between wood, plastic, concrete, gypsum and fiber cement board. ABC Acrylic sealant is paintable and used indoors only.

Are all ABC Silicone Sealants for Interior and Exterior use?

Yes, all ABC Silicone Sealants are for indoor and outdoor use. There are three variants. ABC Sanitary Grade Silicone Sealant is used for bathrooms and kitchens. It has biotech properties making it resistant to mold and mildew. The Glazing Grade Sealant is suited for sealing glass to aluminium or other non-corrosive materials. ABC Construction Grade Sealant is for maintenance and universal use. It seals and adheres to most building materials.

What makes ABC Firestop Sealant fire resistant?

The ABC Firestop Sealant is composed of intumescent, endothermic and fire retardant properties making it fire resistant. The spread of fire & smoke can be delayed up to 4 hours by using ABC Firestop Sealant.

Insulating & Flooring Solutions

Do I need to use waterproofing if I use Thermoshield?

Yes, especially since Thermoshield Heat Insulating mortar is used on outdoor or weather exposed areas, such as exterior walls and roof decks. Using cementitious waterproofing will help protect these areas against water seepage.