TILE ADHESIVES

AquaBlu exclusively offers Litokol adhesives, as it offers superior performance in swimming pools, spas, outdoor installations, and other wet areas including wellness centers, showers, baths and kitchen backsplashes. For installing glass tile in these demanding environments, Litoelastic stands out as a premier adhesive choice due to its flexibility to handle movement, its strong bond to ensure tile adhesion, and its waterproof properties that prevent water damage and efflorescence. As a reliable non-epoxy alternative, Litokol’s Hyperflex K100 high-performance cementitious thin-set offers dependable adhesion and good workability.

Note: Certain Starlike EVO epoxy grouts, including the Starlike EVO Classic and Starlike EVO Glamour collections, can be used as both a thin-set adhesive and a grout for a single-step application. Contact customer success for further inquiries.

Yes. Both Litokol’s epoxy based Starlike Evo and cementitious based StyleTech Grout can be used for both glass and porcelain tile installations.

Tiling over existing tiles is feasible if the current tiles are firmly adhered, clean, and level. However, it’s crucial to assess the added weight and ensure proper adhesion. Consulting with a professional or following manufacturer guidelines is recommended.

Drying times depend on the adhesive type, environmental conditions, and substrate. Litokol's high-performance, cement-based Hyperflex K100 recommends a 6–8 hour waiting time before grouting for walls and at least 24 hours for floors. In contrast, the high-performance, epoxy-based Litoelastic requires a 24-hour waiting time before grouting. For both adhesives, the manufacturer recommends a 7-day cure period before the installation is fully workable.

Note: Certain Starlike EVO grouts, such as those in the Classic and Glamour collections, can function as both a thin-set adhesive and a grout in a single-step installation. In such applications, the installation will be ready for use in 5 days.

Epoxy based Litoelastic EVO and Starlike EVO grout generally maintain their quality for approximately two years when stored in their original, unopened containers in a dry environment, avoiding freezing temperatures for both and direct sunlight for Starlike EVO. Cement based Hyperflex K100 typically has a shelf life of around one year under similar dry storage conditions. For precise shelf life information, always consult the specific product packaging. It's also recommended to check the material's consistency and workability prior to use, even if it is within the stated shelf life.

For tile projects in wet, outdoor, or high-demand areas where durability is paramount, AquaBlu offers a carefully chosen range of professional-grade adhesives and grouts, primarily from Litokol. While pre-mixed options might seem convenient, they can often lack the robust bond strength and moisture resistance necessary for lasting performance in challenging conditions. Our focus is on providing solutions that ensure a reliable and enduring result for your investment.

Absolutely! AquaBlu exclusively offers Litokol epoxy adhesives and cementitious mortars, renowned for their superior performance in demanding pool, spa, and outdoor environments and other wet areas such as wellness centers, showers and baths. Notably, Litoelastic provides crucial waterproofing, safeguarding against water intrusion indoors and preventing unsightly efflorescence outdoors. All Litokol offerings deliver exceptional durability against outdoor conditions and temperature fluctuations, forming a strong, flexible bond while remaining user-friendly with low fumes.

The necessity of sealing tiles and grout depends on the materials and their installation environment. While impervious materials like glass and porcelain tile don't require sealing, porous options such as natural stone, ceramics, and encaustic tiles benefit significantly from it, especially in wet applications. For ultimate performance and convenience, AquaBlu offers Litokol installation products. Their epoxy grouts are naturally non-porous and require no sealing. Additionally, Litokol's cementitious StyleTech Grout, thanks to its proprietary high-performance formula, also negates the need for sealing. Therefore, if you've opted for Litokol Starlike EVO epoxy or StyleTech grout, you can bypass the sealing process entirely.

Great question. C1 tile adhesives are standard adhesives with a normal adhesion strength, generally suitable for most common tiling projects indoors. C2 adhesives, on the other hand, offer improved adhesion and are recommended for more demanding situations such as large format tiles or areas with higher moisture, like what you might find with our bathroom tile options. As pool and wet application specialists we exclusively recommend and distribute Litokol products.

For the best results with your tile adhesive, make sure the surface is clean, dry, and free of any dust, grease, or loose particles. In a pool or spa application waterproofing with products like Basecrete or Basecrete Xtreme is also recommended for damp proofing and stronger plaster or tile adhesion.

Tile adhesive can sometimes fail due to factors like improper surface preparation, the use of the wrong type of adhesive for the tile or environment, or moisture issues. To ensure a long-lasting installation, we always recommend finding a qualified installer who is familiar with TCNA (Tile Council of North America) installation guidelines and has positive reviews and relevant accreditations. For our premium tile selections and setting materials, you can explore our adhesives & grouts collections.

Select your trowel according to your tile dimensions: smaller tiles like glass tile mosaics generally need finer notches, while larger tiles like large format porcelain tile require more substantial ones to ensure sufficient adhesive contact. Always consult the specific technical data sheet for your chosen adhesive product for precise trowel size recommendations and application instructions tailored to your materials and conditions. This will ensure optimal bond strength and longevity.

We appreciate the question! At AquaBlu, our priority is your successful installation. That's why we've hand-selected the finest products and paired them with outstanding customer service, eliminating the guesswork, particularly for demanding outdoor and high-stress applications such as swimming pools and spas.

Need help? Our US-based customer success team offers live support for product selection, installation, and any questions you have. Reach us by phone or live chat Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 6 PM ET, and Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM ET. We also respond to all emails within one business day, because your project's success is our priority.

Absolutely! AquaBlu specializes in these very applications. The majority of our product line is engineered to endure diverse environmental conditions, excelling in both outdoor settings and submerged environments like pools and spas. You'll find a comprehensive selection of waterproofing, adhesives, epoxy grouts, pool tile and pool mosaics specifically chosen for their exceptional durability and long lifespan in these demanding applications.