Guide To Laying On Concrete
Overlay Tiles are perfect for use on new or existing concrete bases.
The Overlay Tiles PU Adhesive has been specially formulated to retain an element of flex when cured to allow the tiles to expand and contract during temperature changes. The method for applying the adhesive allows excess rain water to drain under and between the tiles. As Overlay Tiles are Glass Fibre Reinforced they are frost resistant, very strong and have high slip resistance. Perfect for use on concrete.
Before Ordering
It is important to accurately measure the area you want to cover before ordering. When laying on concrete we recommend ordering at least 12 tiles per m2.
If your concrete base has undulations or is uneven we recommend ordering some soft packers to help overcome differences in level. Instructions for soft packers can be downloaded from the technical section and are supplied with orders.
Before laying any tiles it is important to clear any loose debris or grease from the area you will lay on.
If your base is very dirty you may want to give it a brush and rinse with some soapy water.
Applying PU Adhesive
Overlay Tiles PU Adhesive is supplied in 1 litre bottles. One bottle will fix roughly 45- 50 tiles.
The PU Adhesive absorbs moisture from the atmosphere and expands to support the tile evenly and to provide a very strong adhesion to the concrete being covered.
Before using the PU Adhesive it is very important to read the instructions on the bottle.
The nozzle of the bottle should be cut to give the correct size of bead for the adhesive. A 3mm bead is recommended when laying on concrete.
The adhesive should be applied in three zig zag patterns as shown in the picture above. This ensures that the tile is supported evenly across all four corners.
When applying the adhesive try to leave approximately 20mm between the edge of the tile and the bead of the adhesive. You will quickly get the feel for how much adhesive to apply to the tile.
PU adhesive can be applied in damp conditions but not when standing water of any amount is present.
Tiles should be laid with a 2mm gap between each tile. This can be achieved by using our 2mm spacers available in our shop section.
Do not apply adhesive in temperatures under 5 degrees. Tiles should not be disturbed during the curing process as adhesion may be lost.
Replace the cap on the bottle to store but expel as much air from the bottle as possible.
Allow a minimum of 24 hours for PU adhesive to cure.
Do not walk on tiles that have been laid recently.
Cutting Tiles
Safety is very important when cutting tiles. You must use the following items of PPE, Gloves, Dust Mask and Safety Glasses. If you are using a grinder check that a safety guard is present and that it is in the correct position. All tools and PPE required for cutting tiles are available in our online shop at competitive prices.
Before cutting any tiles it is important to measure accurately what size of tile is required. The simplest way to do this is to measure from each end of the tile to the edge of the surface, Remember to subtract 2mm from you measurements to include for the gap between each tile. Mark these sizes on the tile to be cut and draw a line between them.
Tiles can be cut easily using a grinder with a diamond blade. Again these items are available in our shop section if you do not already have them. Place the tile on a hard surface or workbench and cut as shown above. You can also use a motorised tile cutter if you have one. Make sure a diamond tip blade has been installed.
Laying Overlay Tiles on concrete is very simple. Before you start lay some tiles loose to establish the best position to start from.
By doing this you can minimise the number of cuts required and avoid awkward small cuts.
Simply lay the tiles using the adhesive instructions as shown. If you have some undulations in the surface place soft packers under the tile to stop it rocking before applying the adhesive to overcome the difference in level. Then apply slightly more adhesive, this will then expand to fill the gap created by the packer to support the tile as required.
We recommend laying all the full size tiles first and then move on to cutting the edge tiles.
Allow 24hr curing time before allowing anything on top of the tiles.
Removing Excess PU Adhesive
If you apply to much adhesive it may foam up between the tiles. The most important thing to do is to leave it until it has cured. If you try to clean it off when wet it will stain the tiles.
When it has cured it can simply be removed using a knife as shown above.
Sealing Tiles
Overlay Tiles Sealant helps to prevents stains such as foodstuffs, oils and algae growth, it also enhances the look of the tiles.
Overlay tiles do not have to be sealed, it is simply an option that is available.
The sealant is supplied in 1 litre bottles. One bottle should be sufficient for 50 - 70 tiles dependant on amount applied.
Simply decant the sealant into a jug or similar and apply to tiles as shown above using a soft brush. As the sealant dry's keep brushing it so as to clear the small puddles of sealant which dries, appearing on the tiles.
You may want to apply two coats for extra protection and shine.
Allow 24 hours to dry and do not apply in temperatures below 5 degrees.