The Benefits of Using Rock-Tite to Install Porcelain Paving Slabs
Porcelain paving slabs are becoming an increasingly popular option for outdoor spaces due to their durability, low maintenance and style. Able to effortlessly achieve the sought-after indoor/outdoor look with their large format and seamless appearance, these hardwearing tiles are available in a wide range of colours, styles and sizes.
Norcros Adhesive’s new installation system, Rock-Tite, offers a quick, simple and cost-effective way to lay porcelain and stone outdoor tiles.
Designed in a handy 3-step plan, Rock-Tite comprises a Primer, a Mortar (or alternative Mortar Additive option) and a Brush-In Grout.
Above, Valeria Grigio Arco Porcelain Paving Slabs
The benefits of porcelain paving slabs
1) Durability
Traditional concrete slabs are renowned for absorbing dirt and moisture, whereas porcelain is a non-porous material making it durable and hardwearing. Unlike other paving materials, porcelain slabs will not expand or contract in different temperatures as they are weather-resistant, which means that their surface will not fade or change in colour, retaining their original character and charm for years to come!
2) Low-maintenance
Their low porosity also makes them resistant to the growth of algae as well as frost, making them effortlessly easy to maintain. Porcelain paving slabs also feature anti-slip properties, making them perfectly prepared for anything that the temperamental British weather has to through at them!
3) Style
Our porcelain paving slabs are perfect for emulating a spacious feel to your outside space. Our stylish and functional porcelain paving slabs even have some options available which can be used both indoors and outdoors for a seamless, transitional look.
Check out our wide range of stunning porcelain paving slabs here!
Above, Mist Light Grey Concrete Effect Porcelain Paving Slabs
The benefits of Rock-Tite
1) Cost-effective
The cost of getting a large external project wrong can be extremely damaging for the installer when using traditional installation methods such as concrete. Rock-Tite offers half the amount of labour, material and build-up, with a system that is cost-effective for both large and small projects alike, offering correct installation, avoiding failure.
2) Simple
The handy 3-part system is simple to follow with clear, easy steps to ensure a quick and fuss-free process.
3) Long-lasting
Durable and reliable, Rock-Tite comes with a lifetime guarantee for quality assurance and peace of mind.
How to use Rock-Tite
Preparation
> Firstly, dig out the designated area to be tiled, making sure it’s stable
> It should be deep enough to allow for a compacted hardcore depth of 75-150mm for patio slabs/natural stone or 100-150mm for porcelain tiles
Create a fall
> To set out the area, use a horizontal level line and a second sloped line to create a fall
> The area should fall away from the property at a ratio of 25mm over a 1.5mm length
> Compact Type 1 or MOT grade hardcore making sure it’s rigid and stable
Laying
Either:
> Use a mechanical mixer to mix Rock Tite Mortar (2) at a ratio of 3.75 litres water to 25kg powder
> Only mix enough to be used within the pot life of 60 minutes
or:
> Blend a full 12.5 kg bag of Rock-Tite Mortar Additive (2a) with 75 kg sharp sand in a mechanical mixer
> Add sufficient water to the blended mix, and mix until the mixture is smooth and lump-free
Then:
> Lay a solid bed of mortar
> A mortar thickness of no less than 25mm may be used on to hardcore which is not less than 100mm deep
> The dot and dab fixing method is not advised
Above, Norcros Rock-Tite Mortar
> Gradually add the required amount of Rock-Tite Porcelain Primer (1)
> Mix the primer into a smooth, lump-free slurry
> Only mix enough to be used within the pot life of 60 minutes
> Apply the primer to the back of the tiles using a brush or roller
> Ensure that the primer is still wet when laying the paving slabs into the mortar
> Lay the tiles into the mortar
> Leave at least 3mm joints width between the tiles
> Once finished, allow to dry for 24 hours before grouting
Above, Norcros Rock-Tite Primer
Finishing
> The ground must be free-draining and the sub-base permeable
> Wet the surface of the tiles and keep them moist throughout
> Make sure the joints are clean and dust-free
> Brush the Rock-Tite Brush-In Grout (3) into the joints at a 45-degree angle using a long-handled brush
(Rock-Tite brush-in grout is available in three different shades: Tropical Ebony, Blanched Almond and Steel Grey)
> Keep applying the grout until the joints are filled and void-free
> Don’t allow the surface to dry out
> There’s no wastage as any excess grout can be put into a tub and covered with water to at least 50mm above its surface, ready to use
> Compact the joints and finish with a jointing tool
> If voids appear, refill and refinish, then brush off any excess grout
> Foot traffic is permitted within 24 hours
Above, Norcros Rock-Tite Brush In Grout (Steel Grey)
Check out this handy installation guide by Norcros Adhesives:
Give some love to these seamless outdoor/indoor looks on Instagram!
