Adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks: why you should choose it?

Polystyrene concrete blocks are becoming more and more common in contemporary architecture because of their exceptional insulating qualities and lightweight design. Selecting the appropriate adhesive is essential when using these blocks to build a sturdy and long-lasting structure. This decision may have a big impact on your project’s stability and longevity.

Compared to conventional mortar, adhesive made especially for polystyrene concrete blocks has a number of benefits. Better bonding strength is provided, which facilitates the construction of a strong, cohesive wall. Furthermore, the adhesive’s composition is specifically designed to complement the special qualities of polystyrene concrete, guaranteeing top performance.

Additionally, using the right adhesive expedites the building process. Because of its simple application and short setting time, you can proceed with your project without needless delays. Additionally, it lessens the quantity of material required, which over time may save you money.

Purchasing premium adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks is a wise choice that can result in a build that is more effective and successful. Comprehending the rationale behind the recommendation of this particular adhesive will enable you to make well-informed decisions and attain optimal outcomes for your building endeavors.

What is a specialized composition

The characteristics of the adhesive mixture and its benefits over cement-sand mortar will be discussed first.

Advantages of glue over mortar

There is one drawback to glue, albeit a small one given its many benefits. Because of its high cost, prospective buyers are frequently prompted to consider cement mortar, a less expensive option for masonry mix.

But let’s continue to investigate if using mortar actually can result in cost savings.

• Let"s say the developer decided to use the services of specialists or a contractor. Mixing cement mortar is a rather labor-intensive process, and it takes a lot of time. This fact cannot but affect the cost of services. As a rule, in this case, the work of masons will cost more, which compensates for the savings on the material.
• When laying on polystyrene concrete adhesive, the layer thickness will be significantly less, which, in turn, will reduce cold bridges and increase the thermal efficiency of the entire structure.
• In the case of mortar, everything is different: the layer during laying will be several times larger. Moreover, cement is an excellent conductor of cold into the room. The result is a decrease in the ability to maintain temperature.

Kindly take note! Of course, thorough insulation is one way to lower the wall’s overall thermal conductivity coefficient. However, this will raise the overall cost of construction and involve additional expenses. That is to say, the savings from using mortar are still dubious even if you lay the block by hand.

• If you look at the reviews of developers about the use of specialized glue, it will be extremely difficult to find a negative experience, if this is even possible.

Let’s now examine the additional benefits that glue for polystyrene concrete blocks offers.

1. A big advantage is the high tear strength. After setting, the block will no longer be able to be peeled off, it is much easier to break it.
2. When the block is characterized by good geometry, laying one cube will take only about half an hour. And according to some manufacturers, an experienced mason can do it in 20 minutes.
3. The glue of almost any manufacturer is highly plastic, which is very convenient when using it. It is easy to apply.
4. Biological resistance is another advantage, fungus and mold will not form in the seams.
5. Frost resistance is also high.
6. It is worth highlighting the presence of a winter version of the mixture in the range of adhesive compositions. It contains an anti-freeze additive, which will allow work to be carried out at temperatures below +5 degrees.

Kindly take note! The conclusion is obvious: using a solution can raise costs significantly in addition to not lowering them. This will occur because a decrease in thermal efficiency will necessitate the use of more insulation. Additionally, the rising cost of specialized services could be one of the causes.

What determines the consumption of adhesive composition

Many manufacturers state that you only need a 25 kg bag of dry mix to lay one cube of block when the layer thickness is 1 mm. But generally speaking, maintaining such a thickness during the entire masonry process is nearly impossible.

• Firstly, it is very difficult to find blocks with such ideal geometry;
• Secondly, deviations during masonry cannot be avoided: even 1-2 mm, but they will take place;
• Thirdly, it is simply difficult to adhere to such a layer – it is too thin. Moreover, its recommended thickness is 2-3 mm.

Let’s now investigate what precisely will dictate how much glue is required.

1. First of all, it is worth mentioning the skill of the mason. When an experienced specialist works, the consumption will most likely be less – sometimes even significantly.

1. Weather conditions are also an important factor.

1. The above-mentioned layer thickness is the main condition for calculating the consumption of the composition.

1. Another factor is the brand of the product and its manufacturer. The fact is that the recommended layer thickness may vary, depending on the manufacturer and some characteristics of the glue itself.

Note: It is advised to buy the mixture with a small reserve, just like with the blocks themselves. After all, the adhesive used in masonry can be used for more than just joining materials—it can also be used, for instance, to conceal flaws. Additionally, cracked blocks are sometimes fixed with glue when the building contracts.

Choosing adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks is crucial for ensuring strong, durable, and efficient construction. This specialized adhesive provides better bonding, reduces thermal bridging, and simplifies installation compared to traditional mortar. It"s designed to work seamlessly with the lightweight nature of polystyrene concrete, enhancing the structural integrity and energy efficiency of buildings.

Help in choosing glue

It begs the question of which glue is better to select and what factors to consider. We will now be investigating this.

Overview of the most popular brands

A composition for cellular concrete, for instance, has a much wider range than a narrowly targeted adhesive for polystyrene concrete. But there’s still an option. Additionally, universal compositions designed for lightweight concrete products in general can be applied to the polystyrene concrete block laying situation.

As was previously mentioned, various brands’ dry mixes are not the same. Manufacturers prioritize particular qualities in an effort to differentiate themselves from rivals. There will be greater flexibility in one solution, viability in another, and so forth.

Be aware that the price category is also distinct. Purchasing the priciest option isn’t always a good idea because it’s not always justified. Focus on reputable producers, who are the most well-liked by customers.

Using the table as a guide, let’s look at some options for masonry compositions and adhesives in the form of dry mixes meant for applying polystyrene concrete.

Popular manufacturers’ adhesive mixtures and masonry compositions:

The mixture is adaptable and can be used for both internal and external tasks.

The composition stands out due to its extended viability, which can last up to 4 hours. But it only takes five minutes to adjust.

Tear strength increases and frost resistance reaches 200 cycles.

There is a three-hour window for viability and five to seven minutes for adjustments.

It can get as cold as -10 degrees in the air while the work is being done.

Compressive strength: approximately 7.5 MPa, marginally higher than the compositions mentioned above. The adhesive mixtures typically have a value of 5 MPa.

About fifty cycles of frost resistance. Ten minutes for adjustment.

Characterized by strong tearing strength and resistance to moisture.

It has a compressive strength of 20 MPa.

Three hours for viability and seven minutes for product adjustment.

Kindly take note! A few developers discuss how they used tile adhesive when laying blocks. However, this is incorrect. After all, the purpose of such a composition is entirely different, and its characteristics differ as well. The only appropriate compositions to use when laying polystyrene concrete, or any other block, are specialty compositions. If not, the completed structure’s mechanical and physical qualities might deteriorate.

Types of mixtures and their purpose

There are two types of adhesive mixtures in total: winter compositions, which can be used in negative air temperatures, and conventional compositions, which can only be used in temperatures not lower than +5.

• If the weather outside is warm, and you only have winter glue, then you can use it, and it will not entail any negative consequences. But you shouldn"t do the opposite.
• The presence of an anti-frost additive does not mean that installation can be done at absolutely any temperature. In severe frosts, work should be suspended. As a rule, manufacturers indicate a limit of minus 10-12 degrees. That is, these are the minimum temperatures.
• When using glue, the mixture is kneaded in small portions with the expectation of working it out in about 20-30 minutes.
• It is recommended to use warm water.
• Block products should not be covered with snow or ice.

You can steer clear of unfavorable outcomes by following these suggestions.

Calculation of the composition of the solution for masonry work

Polystyrene concrete laying technology using glue

It’s time to examine the actual work process now. Let’s examine the key components of the technology and how to apply the adhesive composition correctly during masonry work.

List of necessary tools

Let’s begin the review with a list of the equipment that is required.

To complete the task, you will require:

• Building level;

• Rubber mallet;

• Construction thread (cord);

• Square;

• Container for mixing the adhesive composition;

• Drill with mixer;

• Scraper bucket;

• Hacksaw;

• Chaser.

Description of the work process

Steps involved in installing a polystyrene concrete block: quick guide:

This is not limited to polystyrene concrete; it also applies to other types of blocks. In this instance, the adhesion level will rise along with the structure’s strength.

The product is trimmed if its size does not fit the remaining gap. The seam’s thickness should be considered in this situation.

The check should be performed as frequently as feasible in this regard. Errors cannot be fixed once they have been set if not.

Gluing expanded polystyrene

It is well known that polystyrene concrete has a very low thermal conductivity coefficient, making it the preferred material for insulation in buildings; however, the density values of \u200b\u200bleached are far below expectations. They typically don’t go above the grade in D600.

Why? The main selling point is that it has outstanding heat retention and contains crumbs made of polystyrene.

Since we’re discussing this substance, let’s take a moment to quickly review the process of adhering polystyrene foam to concrete.

There are two ways to go about this:

1. Using different types of glue;
2. Using a dry construction mixture.

In the first scenario, it could be bitumen glue, but it could also be silicone glue, latex bitumen emulsion mastic, or specialty mounting foam.

Regarding dry mixes, they have a plethora of options. They are made up of a combination of plasticizer, polymer additives, and cement.

How is concrete and polystyrene foam adhered to? The workflow is fairly straightforward. If glue is used, it is usually applied pointwise over the entire surface and along the entire perimeter. Occasionally, the entire slab is covered with glue using a notched trowel. Subsequently, the product made of polystyrene foam is pressed up against the wall.

Over the whole surface, the completed mixture is applied in sporadic stripes, pulling back from the edge by roughly 2x-cm. A notched trowel can be used if the wall’s unevenness is not too great. The slab is then pressed up against the wall, just like it was in the first instance.

This article’s video will explain the steps involved in getting ready before adding polystyrene foam.

Advantages of Adhesive for Polystyrene Concrete Blocks	Reasons to Choose Adhesive
Strong Bonding	Ensures blocks stay securely in place.
Easy Application	Quick and simple to use, saving time.
Reduced Thermal Bridging	Improves the overall insulation of the structure.
Cost-Effective	Less material needed compared to traditional mortar.
Clean Worksite	Minimizes mess and waste on the job site.
Enhanced Durability	Increases the lifespan of the construction.

For any building project, selecting adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks is a wise choice. It guarantees a solid bond, enhancing the longevity and durability of your structure. In addition, adhesive makes construction easier and requires less time and effort than conventional mortar.

Adhesive aids in improving energy efficiency and insulation. Because adhesive joints are thinner, there are fewer thermal bridges, which keeps your building warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Over time, this may result in considerable energy savings.

Its neat and tidy finish is an additional benefit. Blocks can be precisely aligned with adhesive, producing smooth walls that require less finishing work. This lowers the project’s total costs while also improving the aesthetic appeal.

In conclusion, using adhesive instead of polystyrene concrete blocks has several advantages. It guarantees a cleaner finish, fortifies the structure, and increases energy efficiency. Adhesive is a useful and effective option for any building project.

Video on the topic

Assistants. Laying polyster concrete on adhesive foam

Adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks (foam concrete and aerated concrete) Twinblock ByProc KLM-030

Laying blocks on adhesive foam. Pros and cons of this technology.