SikaCeram®-168 is spread onto the substrate using a proper and suitable notched trowel. The choice of trowel should be governed by the size of the tiles, depth of knobs, grooves or ridges on the back of the tiles and the evenness of the substrate.
Use the flat side of the notched trowel to spread the mix onto the receiving surface at approximately 1 m² at a time. Then, use the notched side of the trowel to apply the required amount of the mix in one direction. Press the tile in a perpendicular motion and tapped into position to ensure positive contact with the adhesive and adjust within 15 minutes.
For tile with grooves or ridges, it is necessary to skim a layer of adhesive / butter coat the back of the tiles. This is to ensure adequate material and good bonding between the adhesive and tile.
Ensure that the adhesive is wet when the tiles are laid. Do not allow the adhesive to skin-over prior to tilling. Should skinning occur, break the skin by re-trowelling the adhesive in the opposite direction.
Do not spread more than 1 m² at any one time. Fix tiles within 15 minutes of applying the adhesive and check the contact by occasionally lifting the tiles. Ensure there are no voids under the tiles and the edges between the tiles are even (lippage) with a consistent joint width.
The final adhesive bed thickness of SikaCeram®-168 should be minimum 3 mm and maximum 10 mm. After completion of tiling works, do not disturb the tiled surface for at least 6–8 hours at +20 °C.
For external areas, protect from direct sunlight and rain by means of a shelter. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the condition and suitability of all surfaces prior to application.
GROUTING
Tile joint grouting should preferably be carried-out at least 24 hours after completion of tiling or until the adhesive has set and dry sufficiently. Setting may be delayed on dense or impervious surface.
