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)
