ARDEX: The Importance of Technical Support

When it comes to flooring installation and building products, choosing high-performance materials is only one part of a successful project. Having access to experienced technical support can make a significant difference in ensuring products are specified correctly, installed properly, and perform as expected long-term. That’s why ARDEX places such a strong focus on providing nationwide technical support and expert advice for contractors, architects, specifiers and flooring professionals.

ARDEX offers a complete technical support service designed to assist customers at every stage of a project. From initial product selection and specification writing through to on-site assessments and moisture testing, the ARDEX technical team helps ensure each project is completed to the highest possible standard.

One of the key services provided is technical advice and product recommendation support. Every project is different, and factors such as subfloor condition, moisture levels, installation environment and finish requirements all play an important role in determining the correct system to use. The ARDEX technical team can provide guidance via telephone, email, video call and social media channels, helping customers choose the most suitable products and systems for their specific application.

ARDEX also provides valuable on-site support nationwide. Their experienced technical service team can attend projects directly, offering assessments, advice and practical recommendations to help resolve issues quickly and efficiently. This hands-on approach gives contractors and installers additional confidence throughout the installation process.

Moisture testing is another essential service offered by ARDEX. Excess moisture in subfloors is one of the most common causes of flooring failure, making accurate testing extremely important before installation begins. The ARDEX team can carry out Hygrometer testing and additional site assessments, helping identify potential problems early and recommending the best moisture control solutions for long-term performance.

In addition, ARDEX supports architects and specifiers with detailed specification writing services, ensuring the correct systems are selected from the outset. Training also remains a major focus, with courses available through the ARDEX Training Academy or delivered on-site to meet customer requirements.

With expert advice, practical support and industry-leading experience, ARDEX continues to provide customers with technical support when and where they need it most.

Get in touch today – https://www.ardexbuildingproducts.ie/contact-us/office-details/

Why High-Temperature Flooring Installations Need the Right Adhesive

Not every flooring project takes place in a controlled environment. In fact, many modern spaces now present a real challenge for installers – particularly areas with large glass façades, conservatories, and buildings that use underfloor heating systems.

These environments can experience significant temperature fluctuations, and that movement can put serious stress on floorcovering adhesives. When the wrong product is used, issues like lifting, indentation, or bond failure can occur over time.

That’s why selecting a high-performance adhesive, such as Ardex AF195, designed specifically for these conditions is essential.

The Challenge: Heat, Light, and Floor Stability

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and other resilient floorcoverings are widely used in both residential and commercial projects due to their durability and design flexibility. However, they still rely heavily on the adhesive beneath them to maintain long-term performance.

Problems typically arise in spaces where:

• Direct sunlight increases surface temperatures
• Underfloor heating creates consistent heat exposure
• Large glazed areas intensify solar gain

In these situations, standard adhesives may not provide the stability needed to maintain a secure bond over time.

A Solution Designed for Demanding Conditions

Ardex AF195 High Temperature Adhesive has been developed specifically to address these challenges.

It is a fibre-reinforced, water-based acrylic emulsion adhesive designed for LVT and other resilient floor finishes, offering strong bond performance even in thermally demanding environments.

Its formulation focuses on stability, flexibility, and reliability -making it suitable for installations where temperature exposure is a key concern.

Performance Where It Matters Most

One of the key strengths of AF195 is its ability to maintain performance under heat stress. It is designed to withstand temperatures of up to 50°C, making it suitable for areas with strong solar gain or underfloor heating systems.

Despite its strength, it still offers practical benefits on-site, including:

• Fast initial grab, allowing LVT installation in as little as 5 minutes
• Walkability in around 4 hours
• Up to 30 minutes working time for accurate placement and complex layouts such as herringbone designs
• Coverage of approximately 56m² per 12kg unit, depending on substrate conditions

Its solvent-free, low-odour formulation also makes it suitable for use in occupied buildings or sensitive environments, while its EMICODE EC1 PLUS certification ensures very low emissions.

Where It Works Best

AF195 is designed for use with a range of resilient floorcoverings, including:

• Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
• PVC sheet and tile flooring
• Rubber flooring (up to 4mm)
• Linoleum

It is particularly effective in interior dry environments such as:

• Conservatories
• Sunrooms
• Commercial spaces with extensive glazing

These are exactly the types of spaces where heat and sunlight can compromise standard adhesive performance.

Installation Considerations

As with any flooring system, preparation plays a key role in long-term success.

Surfaces should be clean, dry, and level, with a suitable damp-proof membrane in place where required. On highly absorbent substrates, priming with Ardex P 51 can help improve consistency and coverage.

Application can be carried out using a trowel or roller, and installation should always follow recommended site conditions in line with BS 8203 standards, both before and after laying.

Bringing Confidence to High-Risk Installations

In environments where temperature fluctuations are unavoidable, the adhesive becomes one of the most critical components of the entire flooring system.

Ardex AF195 is designed to give installers and specifiers greater confidence in those demanding projects – combining heat resistance, strong initial grab, and ease of use in a single solution.

For projects where reliability cannot be compromised, it offers a dependable approach to long-term flooring performance.

20mm porcelain tiles have become a popular choice for external spaces such as patios, terraces, balconies, and roof decks thanks to their strength, slip resistance, and modern aesthetic. However, achieving long-lasting performance outdoors depends on choosing the correct fixing method for the environment and substrate.

Below, we explore four proven external tiling installation methods and where each is best suited.

1. Direct Fix to a Prepared Concrete Slab – Flexible Adhesive Method

For structurally sound concrete bases, direct fixing is one of the most efficient and technically robust installation methods. The slab must be fully cured, clean, level, and formed to falls to ensure effective drainage away from the tiled surface.

High-performance flexible adhesives such as ARDEX X 325 or BAL XL Floor One (from BAL Adhesives Limited) are applied using a large-format notched trowel, with each tile back-buttered to achieve near-100% coverage. This eliminates voids beneath the tile, ensuring excellent load distribution, frost resistance, and durability – ideal for patios, terraces, and high-traffic outdoor areas.

2. Traditional Wet Bed Installation – Slurry Primer Fresh-on-Fresh

The solid bed method remains a time-tested approach, particularly suited to ground-supported external installations. A cement-based slurry primer is applied to the back of each porcelain tile before placing it fresh-on-fresh into a prepared sand and cement mortar bed.

This slurry bond creates both a mechanical and chemical key between the low-porosity porcelain and mortar, dramatically reducing the risk of debonding. Installed over a well-compacted sub-base with appropriate drainage falls, this system delivers a strong, traditional construction build-up with excellent long-term performance.

3. Raised Installation – Adjustable Pedestal Systems

Where projects require drainage management, service access, or significant height build-up, raised pedestal systems offer a highly flexible alternative. Systems such as TerraMaxx pedestals from Gutjahr Systems GmbH support the tiles without bonding them to the substrate.

These pedestals are available in heights ranging from approximately 36mm up to 500mm, allowing complete flexibility in design. This creates a free-draining surface while allowing services to be concealed beneath. Particularly suited to balconies, roof terraces, and podium decks, pedestal installations allow rapid installation, precise levelling, and straightforward future maintenance access.

4. Floating Installation – Drainage & Decoupling Mat Systems

An increasingly popular modern solution is the use of drainage and decoupling mats such as KP Drain Plus. These systems can be loose-laid onto a smooth, level substrate, providing effective water management and isolating the tiled finish from substrate movement.

Tiles are then bonded above the mat using suitable ARDEX or BAL adhesives, combining the strength of a bonded system with enhanced moisture control and stress relief – an ideal approach for exposed terraces subject to Ireland’s variable climate.

Choosing the Right MethodEach of these systems offers distinct advantages, and the correct specification depends on factors such as substrate condition, loading requirements, drainage design, and accessibility needs. By selecting the appropriate ARDEX-compatible installation method, designers and contractors can ensure durable, low-maintenance external tiled surfaces built to perform in demanding environments.

Learn more about our products here: https://www.ardexbuildingproducts.ie/

When it comes to modern construction and renovation in wet environments – like bathrooms, kitchens, steam rooms, pools, and more—wedi Building Boards stand out as a high-performance, waterproof, insulating, and versatile building solution. Let’s explore why they’re revolutionizing the industry. 

What Are wedi Building Boards? 

These boards are designed as a building element for tile, plaster, stone, and more—no additional waterproofing required. 

Core Advantages 

• Waterproof & Mold-Proof 
  Inherently resistant to moisture—even if the surface layer is damaged—preventing mold growth.  

• Excellent Thermal Insulation 
  With a low thermal conductivity (~0.036 W/mK), they help maintain warmth and energy efficiency.  

• Lightweight & Easy to Work With 
  Tools like utility knives or saws are all you need for cutting. Installation on surfaces like drywall, masonry, wood, and old tiles is fast and precise.  

• Strong Bonding Surface 
  The mesh-reinforced cement layer ensures excellent tile adhesion, eliminating delamination and improving structural integrity.  

• Stable & Durable 
  Designed for long-term resilience—no shrinkage, delamination, or off-gassing—up to 40 years of performance.  

Technical Highlights 

Some key specs of the standard wedi Building Board: 

• Sound insulation: ~23 dB Rw (12.5 mm thickness)  

• Compressive strength: ~0.25 N/mm² at 10% compression  

• Bending strength: Avg. 3,900 kPa  

• Thermal conductivity: ~0.036 W/mK  

• Temperature tolerance: -50 °C to +75 °C  

They also meet fire-class EN 13501 E and are free from HCFC/CFC.  

Product Variants for Specific Needs 

• XL & XXL Boards 
  Oversized formats (up to 1.2 m wide) reduce seams and speed up installs—ideal for large partitions.  

• Vapor Building Board 
  Designed for high-humidity environments like steam showers, combining waterproof XPS with one-sided vapor protection.  

• Construct Building Board 
  Features factory-scored grooves for bending into curves—perfect for benches, niches, or freeform designs.  

• PreLine Boards 
  Include built-in channels for underfloor heating pipes—simplifying radiant-heating installations.  

Where to Use Them 

Versatile and customizable, wedi boards are suitable for: 

• Shower and bathtub walls 

• Steam rooms and pools 

• Floors with or without radiant heating 

• Countertops, backsplashes, benches 

• Curved or custom architectural features 
   

Benefits for Professionals 

• Streamlined Installation: Combines waterproofing and tile backer in a single product—no need for cement board + membrane. 

• Time & Cost Efficiency: Faster installs, less mess, fewer labor hours. 

• Reliable Performance: One system under one warranty, tested to ANSI and ASTM standards.  

Conclusion 

wedi Building Boards bring together waterproofing, insulation, strength, and ease of use, all in one high-performing system. They’re the go-to solution for durable, modern construction across wet zones—helping builders save time, ensure quality, and deliver lasting results. 

Introduction

Arditex CL Plus is a fibre-reinforced, moisture-tolerant levelling compound designed for fast-track flooring projects. Ideal for ARDEX Ireland professionals, it combines strength, flexibility, and speed for superior results.

Why Arditex CL Plus Stands Out

• Fibre-reinforced for added strength and crack resistance
• Outstanding flow and application from feather-edge to 10 mm
• Moisture-tolerant: suitable for damp concrete, bitumen residues, ceramic tiles, and DPMs
• No primer required on most substrates

Fast-Track Performance

• Walkable in approx. 2 hours
• Ready for floor coverings in as little as 8 hours
• Compatible with underfloor heating systems

Compatible Substrates & Use Cases

Works on cement/sand screeds, gypsum (anhydrite), plywood, ceramic tiles, bitumen/asphalt, old adhesive residues—even damp floors.

Technical Highlights

Thickness Range: 0–10 mm (single pass), up to 30 mm with aggregate
Walkable Time: Approx. 2 hours
Ready for Coverings: From 8 hours
Moisture Tolerance: Direct to damp, no primer required

Installation Tips

• Ensure subfloor is clean and sound
• Mix powder and latex per TDS instructions
• For depths over 10 mm, incorporate ARDEX coarse aggregate
• Allow compound to dry fully before covering

Applications in Ireland

Perfect for renovations of older concrete floors, new builds with underfloor heating, and multi-level housing with gypsum screeds.

Conclusion

Arditex CL Plus is a robust, fast-drying levelling solution suited to Ireland’s varied substrates and damp environments. Backed by ARDEX Ireland’s support, it’s the top choice for installers demanding speed and reliability.

We are proud to announce that Ardex Ireland has been honoured at the National Tiling and Flooring Association of Ireland (NTFAI) Awards for our outstanding contribution to training and education in the tiling and flooring industry. 

The NTFAI Awards are the most anticipated event in the Irish tiling and flooring calendar, celebrating excellence, innovation, and craftsmanship across the sector. This year’s ceremony brought together leading professionals, suppliers, and innovators to recognize achievements that set new standards in quality and professionalism. 

Our Commitment to Training 

At Ardex Ireland, we believe that knowledge is the foundation of quality workmanship. Over the past year, we have invested heavily in specialist training programs through the ArdexAcademy, offering workshops and hands-on demonstrations designed to empower tilers and flooring professionals with the latest techniques, product knowledge, and industry best practices. ArdexAcademy is more than a training hub—it’s a community where professionals can learn, share, and grow together. 

Why This Award Matters 

Winning the NTFAI Special Award for Tiling Education is a testament to our dedication to supporting the professional development of installers across Ireland. It reflects our passion for creating a skilled workforce that can deliver exceptional results for homeowners, businesses, and the construction sector. 

Looking Ahead 

We’re not stopping here. Ardex Ireland will continue to expand ArdexAcademy initiatives, introduce new technologies, and collaborate with industry partners to ensure that Irish tiling and flooring professionals remain at the forefront of innovation. 

When it comes to preparing subfloors for high-quality finishes, precision and efficiency are non-negotiable. Whether you’re working on a commercial build or a residential renovation, Adicem Flow from Ardex Building Products Ireland delivers a high-performance solution that simplifies and accelerates the levelling process. 

What is Adicem Flow? 

Adicem Flow is a cement-based, water-mixed self-levelling compound designed specifically for large surface areas. It’s ideal for smoothing and levelling substrates before installing tiles, wood flooring, vinyl, or other coverings. With its pumpable formulation, it’s perfect for both manual and machine application, making it a favourite among contractors handling large-scale projects. 

Key Features & Benefits 

• Self-Levelling Excellence: Adicem Flow spreads effortlessly, creating a smooth, even surface without the need for grinding. 

• Fast Setting: Walkable within 2–3 hours, allowing for rapid project progression. 

• Flexible Thickness: Can be applied in layers from 1 mm to 15 mm (up to 50 mm when mixed with sand). 

• Crack-Free Finish: Maintains integrity even at maximum thickness, reducing callbacks and repairs. 

• Indoor Use: Designed for interior applications, ensuring optimal performance in controlled environments. 

• No Sanding Required: Saves time and labour costs on-site. 

Application Areas 

Adicem Flow is suitable for use on: 

• Concrete 

• Sand-cement screeds 

• Ceramic tiles 

• Natural stone 

It’s particularly effective for preparing surfaces before laying: 

• Tiles 

• Natural stone 

• Light floor coverings 

Mixing & Usage Guidelines 

• Mixing Ratio: 5.75 – 6 litres of water per 25 kg bag 

• Working Time: Approx. 30 minutes 

• Drying Time:  

• Walkable after 3 hours at 18–20°C 

• Ready for floor finishes after 36–72 hours depending on thickness 

Note: Always use appropriate primers (e.g., ARDEX P 51, P 82, or P7) based on the substrate. 

Why Contractors Choose Adicem Flow 

• Efficiency: Reduces downtime with fast drying and no sanding 

• Reliability: Prevents shrinkage and cracking 

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of substrates and applications 

• Ease of Use: Simple mixing and application process 

Summary 

Adicem Flow is more than just a levelling compound—it’s a strategic tool for flooring professionals who value speed, precision, and durability. Whether you’re preparing a subfloor for tiles in a residential kitchen or smoothing out a commercial showroom, Adicem Flow ensures a flawless foundation every time 

In the world of luxury vinyl tile (LVT) installations, choosing the right adhesive is critical—especially in environments exposed to high temperatures. Whether you’re working in sun-drenched conservatories, rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, or over underfloor heating systems, Ardex AF195 High Temperature Adhesive stands out as a premium solution engineered for performance and reliability.

What Is Ardex AF195?

Ardex AF195 is a fibre-reinforced, water-based, solvent-free acrylic emulsion adhesive designed specifically for LVT and other resilient floorcoverings. It’s formulated to deliver exceptional bond strength, minimal movement, and high resistance to indentation, even in thermally challenging environments.

Key Features & Benefits

• High Temperature Resistance: Performs reliably in areas with solar gain and underfloor heating—up to 50°C.  

• Fast Application: Ready to receive LVT in as little as 5 minutes, walkable in 4 hours.  

• Extended Working Time: Up to 30 minutes, ideal for intricate designs like herringbone or borders. 

• Solvent-Free & Low Odour: Safer for installers and indoor environments. 

• EMICODE EC1 PLUS Certified: Meets the highest standards for low emissions.  

• Excellent Coverage: Up to 56m² per 12kg unit, depending on substrate and trowel type.  

Ideal Applications

Ardex AF195 is suitable for:

• Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) 

• PVC sheets and tiles 

• Rubber flooring (up to 4mm) 

• Linoleum 

It excels in interior dry locations with high thermal exposure, making it perfect for:

• Conservatories 

• Sunrooms 

• Commercial spaces with large glass façades 

Installation Tips

• Subfloor Prep: Ensure the surface is dry, smooth, and contains an effective damp-proof membrane. 

• Priming: Not always necessary, but priming highly absorbent surfaces with Ardex P 51 can improve coverage. 

• Application: Use a roller or trowel. Maintain ambient conditions as per BS 8203 standards for 48 hours before and after installation.  

Why Choose Ardex AF195?

For installers and specifiers seeking a reliable, high-performance adhesive that can withstand temperature fluctuations without compromising bond integrity, Ardex AF195 is a top-tier choice. Its quick grab, flexible working time, and environmental credentials make it a standout product in the flooring industry.

When it comes to tiling, the finishing touch matters just as much as the tiles themselves. That’s where BAL Micromax3 ECO Grout steps in—a revolutionary product designed to deliver market-leading performance, control, and sustainability for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Why Choose BAL Micromax3 ECO?

BAL Micromax3 ECO is the next evolution in grouting technology, building on the success of Micromax2 with enhanced features that make it the ultimate choice for modern tiling projects.

Key Features

• Antimicrobial Protection
  Built-in Microban® technology provides long-lasting protection against black mould and mildew, ensuring a cleaner, more hygienic finish.
• Colour Consistency & Efflorescence-Free
  Say goodbye to patchiness and shading. Micromax3 ECO guarantees locked-in colour consistency across large areas, with an efflorescence-free formulation for a flawless look.
• Rapid-Drying & Hardening
  Thanks to advanced chemistry, the grout sets in just 2–3 hours, locking water within the mix to prevent staining on natural stone and speeding up project completion.
• Eco-Friendly Innovation
  Sustainability is at the heart of Micromax3 ECO:
  • Made with 25% recycled materials
  • 100% recyclable packaging
  • Low-dust technology for a cleaner, safer working environment
• Versatility You Can Trust
  Suitable for:
  • Walls and floors
  • Joint widths from 1mm to 30mm
  • Wet and dry areas, including power showers, wet rooms, and swimming pools
  • Most tile types, including porcelain and natural stone

Colour Options

With 18 standard colours—from classic White and Jasmine to bold Anthracite and Tornado Sky—you’ll find the perfect shade for any design.

Why Professionals Love It

• Easier clean-off, even on textured tiles
• Reduced haze for a durable, lasting finish
• Improved anti-shrinkage and anti-cracking performance
• Compatible with underfloor heating systems

Perfect for Every Project

Whether you’re working on a luxury bathroom, a commercial wet room, or a swimming pool, BAL Micromax3 ECO delivers strength, style, and sustainability in one innovative solution.

BAL XL Floor One: The Ultimate Adhesive for Extra-Large Format Tiles

As tile sizes grow, so do the challenges of installation. Extra-large format tiles demand an adhesive that can handle weight, uneven substrates, and demanding environments—without compromising on performance. Enter BAL XL Floor One, the flexible thick-bed floor tile adhesive designed for today’s bold tiling trends.

Why Choose BAL XL Floor One?

BAL XL Floor One is engineered for large and extra-large format floor tiles in dry or wet interior and exterior environments. Whether you’re working on a luxury bathroom, a commercial space, or an outdoor patio, this adhesive delivers strength, flexibility, and ease of use.

Key Features

• Up to 25mm Bed Thickness
  Apply in a single layer—ideal for patch repairs and levelling small areas without extra prep.
• Extended Open and Working Times
  Mix bigger batches and work longer without rushing, perfect for large-scale projects.
• Improved Formulation
  Reduces the need for back-buttering on flat surfaces, saving time and effort.
• Fast Track Grouting
  Ready for grouting in as little as 6 hours, making it a true “overnighter” for time-sensitive jobs.
• Exceptional Coverage & Strength
  Handles the weight and size of porcelain, natural stone, and external tiles with ease.

Where to Use BAL XL Floor One

• Extra-Large Format Tiles – Perfect for modern design trends
• Uneven Thickness Tiles – Such as slate, where traditional adhesives might fail
• Wet Areas – Showers, wet rooms, and even swimming pools
• Outdoor Installations – Frost-resistant and weatherproof
• Underfloor Heating – Flexible enough to handle thermal movement

Why Professionals Trust It

• Works on difficult substrates, including tampered external concrete
• Reduces risk of cracking or de-bonding thanks to S1 flexibility
• One white colour for a clean, professional finish

The Bottom Line

If you’re installing large or extra-large tiles, you need an adhesive that’s up to the task. BAL XL Floor One combines strength, flexibility, and convenience, making it the ultimate choice for demanding installations.