Tile Adhesives

Mapei S1 deformable tile adhesives for large-format porcelain, ceramic and stone: Keraflex Maxi S1 for a thick bed without slip, and lightweight Ultralite S1 Flex. Both in 20 kg bags.

Why the adhesive matters

The adhesive is the part of a tiled floor you never see, and the part that decides whether tiles crack, lift or sound hollow years later. Large and heavy tiles, heated floors and timber-framed homes all put more stress on the bond. A flexible, or deformable, adhesive takes up small movements so the tile stays put.

What S1 means

Tile adhesives are classed by how much they can flex. S1 means the adhesive is deformable, so it can take a degree of movement from the surface underneath without letting go of the tile. S1 adhesives are the usual choice for large format tiles, slab tiles, porcelain and natural stone, and for floors and walls that may move slightly.

Our two Mapei adhesives

Keraflex Maxi S1: a deformable adhesive that holds a thick bed without the tile sliding. A good fit for heavy floor tiles, large formats and walls where you do not want tiles to slip while they set.
Ultralite S1 Flex: the lightweight option. It spreads further per bag, so you carry fewer bags, which helps on upper floors and apartment jobs.

Both come in 20 kg bags and suit porcelain, ceramic and stone. See the full Mapei range.

Getting a good bond

Prepare a flat, clean, sound surface. Large tiles show every dip.
Mix only what you can use within the time on the bag, and do not add water to adhesive that has started to stiffen.
Back-butter large tiles as well as combing the bed, so there are no hollow spots.
Leave the right joint width and fill it with grout once the adhesive has set.
Use silicone at internal corners and changes of plane, not grout.

Not sure which adhesive suits your job? Ask our team at Rockdale, or check with your tiler.

FAQs

What is the difference between Keraflex Maxi S1 and Ultralite S1 Flex?

Both are S1 deformable adhesives from Mapei. Keraflex Maxi S1 holds a thick bed without the tile sliding, which suits heavy tiles. Ultralite S1 Flex is lighter and spreads further per bag, so there is less to carry.

Do I need an S1 adhesive for large-format tiles?

It is the usual choice. Large tiles are heavier and more sensitive to movement in the floor or wall, and a deformable adhesive handles that better than a rigid one. Your tiler will confirm what suits the surface.

Can I use these adhesives on natural stone?

Yes, both are made for porcelain, ceramic and stone. Pale stone can show shadows from some adhesives, so ask us or your tiler before fixing light marble or limestone.

Why is back-buttering important?

Spreading adhesive on the back of the tile as well as the floor fills the gaps and gives full coverage. That reduces hollow spots, which can lead to cracked tiles, especially with large formats.

Not sure which one you need? Tell us the surface and the look you are after and we will match the right sealer, cleaner and applicator.

Ask our team