TILING TOOLS & WORKWEAR


THE IMPORTANCE OF PREPARATION


In order to achieve a seamless base for tiles, it is crucial that the correct surface preparation tools are chosen. Here, surface preparation specialist The Preparation Group (PPC) offers advice on choosing the right product for the job at hand.


The successful application and durability of tiles is dependent on a sound concrete base. Problems such as uneven joints, high spots, contaminants, worn coatings, sticky residues, old tiles and broken down screeds can all be tackled with the right equipment and tools to achieve a flat, smooth surface ready for tiling.


There is a vast array of surface preparation, removal and finishing machines and tools on the market. The model, size and power requirements of the machine will determine production rates achievable, together with the accessories selected and the type, thickness and composition of the ‘material’ to be removed.


When concrete is not finished correctly, and particularly if it has been brushed, the surface may be variable and a large degree of laitance “fat” may be evident. To achieve the best bond for tiles, this laitance must be removed.


A preparation method may be specified by the tile manufacturer but usually the first stage is to remove the damaged surface.


MULTI-STRIPPING Multi-stripping, or tile stripping, is used to remove material from a concrete surface such as old tiles, carpet and vinyl or to clean it and is usually selected when there are no other effective options available.


There are 110v hand operated, walk behind machines up to large ride-on three-phase electrical or propane powered models.


Manual, compact push-along tile strippers, such as the 75 or 110 Multi-stripper, are easy to use and effectively remove the bond between the floorcovering and the surface.


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Having stripped the floor, techniques for floor preparation are:-


PLANING Planing would be the choice when needing to remove materials in excess of 2mm thick, where there are multiple layers of coatings and when a rippled profile is required. Applications include the removal of old screeds, latex and adhesives and for reducing tamped surfaces and levels.


There are machines from small 110v single-phase walk-behind electric to three-phase models and petrol and diesel powered equivalents.


Look for planers that feature simple controls, where you turn on and simply lower the drum, such as the 200 Planer.


GRINDING Grinding would be selected when a flat, level and smooth concrete surface profile is required. It is used for removing surface contaminants, adhesives, paint, sealers and coatings.


Grinding models are available in single- phase or three-phase electric and in single head, double head, planetary and multi-head versions. There are also diesel and petrol powered alternatives in certain models.


For small applications, the compact 180 Grinder is ideal. It has a range of diamond discs for domestic and professional use and is easy to move and store and requires no maintenance.


SHOTBLASTING Shotblasting is the best method to prepare new power floated concrete to create adhesion prior to the application of tiles and would be the most cost effective and quickest route. Typical applications include texturing and cleaning and removing laitance, paint and sealants.


Shotblasting machines are available in walk-behind 110v single phase and three-phase electric and there are also ride-on machines powered by diesel. The 215 Shotblaster is the ideal choice for small projects.


CLEANING & MAINTENANCE To remove scratches, stains and contaminants from tiles, there are eco-friendly, chemical-free methods. A multi-tasking machine such as the STG450 combined with diamond cleaning pads, does away with the need for harsh chemicals and expensive waxes or polishes.


www.thepreparationgroup.com www.tomorrowstileandstone.co.uk


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