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Ardex X 17 Tile Adhesive is a polymer fortified cement-based adhesive formulated for fixing porcelain, natural stone, and mosaics in residential and light commercial tiling projects. Its mastic-type non-slump properties and C2 TE S1 classification ensure heavy large-format tiles remain positioned on vertical substrates while accommodating minor structural movement to prevent delamination.
This high-performance mortar delivers 30 minutes of extended open time and achieves a tensile adhesion strength of ≥1.0 MPa, ensuring watertight integrity and continuous bond strength when applied over fully cured liquid waterproofing membranes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'non-slump' actually mean for me on the job?
For a tiler, 'non-slump' means you can place a heavy or large format tile on a wall and it will stay exactly where you put it without sliding or sagging. This makes installations faster, more accurate, and less frustrating, especially when creating feature walls with tight grout joints.
What is an S1 flexibility classification and why is it important?
S1 is a formal classification under ISO 13007 that designates the adhesive as flexible. This is critical for preventing tile failure because it allows the adhesive to accommodate minor shrinkage, thermal changes, or movement in the substrate without cracking the tiles. It's a must-have for ensuring a durable, callback-free job.
How much time do I have to adjust tiles once they're on the wall?
Ardex X 17 has a 20-minute adjustment time at 23°C. This means after applying the tile to the wet adhesive bed, you have approximately 20 minutes to make minor adjustments to its position to ensure it's perfectly level and aligned.
Can I use Ardex X 17 to tile over existing tiles?
Yes, but only in internal dry areas. The existing tiles must be sound, stable, and thoroughly cleaned. Critically, you must mechanically roughen the surface to remove at least 80% of the glaze, then prime with Ardex Multiprime or Ardex P9 before applying the adhesive. This preparation is essential for a successful bond.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Tiling with Large Format Tiles | Exceptional non-slump properties prevent heavy tiles from sliding. | Tilers |
| Floor Tiling (Res/Light Commercial) | S1 flexibility accommodates minor substrate movement and vibration. | Tilers |
| Tiling over Waterproofing Membranes | System compatibility ensures a secure, flexible bond to the membrane. | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Fixing Porcelain, Mosaics & Stone | High bond strength and versatility for virtually all non-sensitive tile types. | Tilers |
Applying Ardex X 17: Protocols & Best Practices
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Substrate Preparation
Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and structurally sound. Mechanically prepare any dense, non-porous surfaces like sealed concrete. Prime porous substrates such as fibre-cement sheet with Ardex Multiprime as required.
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Mixing
Add a 20kg bag of Ardex X 17 powder to approximately 6-6.5 litres of clean water. Mix thoroughly with a paddle mixer for at least 2 minutes to a lump-free, creamy consistency. Let the mix stand for 5 minutes, then give it a final 2-minute mix.
Pot Life: The mixed adhesive is workable for approximately 3 hours at 23°C. Do not try to reconstitute by adding more water. -
Application & Fixing
Apply the adhesive to the substrate with the appropriate notched trowel for the tile size. Press tiles firmly into the wet mortar and slide them at a right angle to the trowel lines to ensure full coverage. Check for voids periodically by lifting a tile.
Pro Tip: Only spread as much adhesive as can be tiled within the 30-minute open time. For large or keyed-back tiles, butter the back of the tile to guarantee 100% coverage and a solid bed.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not for use in continuous immersion applications like swimming pools or tanks. Use a dedicated Ardex system for these areas.
Not suitable for use directly over timber, particleboard, or substrates with excessive movement or deflection.
Not recommended for use with moisture-sensitive natural stones that can be prone to warping or discolouration.
Do not apply at temperatures below 10°C, as this will affect curing and bond development.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and full work clothing. A P2 or P3 dust mask is essential during mixing to avoid inhaling cement and silica dust.
Health Hazards
This product causes serious eye damage and skin irritation. May cause an allergic skin reaction. Contains crystalline silica, which may cause cancer and damage organs through prolonged or repeated inhalation.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor.
Skin:
Wash with plenty of soap and water. If skin irritation or rash occurs, get medical advice.
Inhaled:
Remove person to fresh air. If exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full details before use.
Substrate Preparation & Adhesion Guide
Concrete & Cement Screeds
Surface Preparation
New concrete must cure for at least 4 weeks. Unbonded screeds must cure for 7 days. All surfaces must be clean, firm, and dry. Mechanically grind smooth, steel-trowelled concrete to remove laitance and create a key.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended for porous substrates
For porous cement renders and screeds, prime the surface to prevent water loss from the adhesive, ensuring a stronger bond.
Ardex MultiprimeInternal Sheeting & Membranes
Surface Preparation
Fibre-cement sheet, plasterboard, and compressed fibre-cement sheet must be rigidly fixed as per manufacturer instructions. Ardex liquid waterproofing membranes must be fully cured and clean.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for fibre-cement
Priming is recommended for fibre-cement sheet. Priming is not required over fully cured Ardex undertile waterproofing membranes.
Ardex MultiprimeExisting Ceramic Tiles (Internal Dry)
Surface Preparation
Existing tiles must be firm, stable, and clean. The glazed surface must be mechanically ground to remove at least 80% of the glaze to create a sufficient mechanical key for the new adhesive to bond to.
Primer Requirements
Primer is Mandatory
After grinding and cleaning the existing tiles, a primer must be applied to ensure a reliable chemical bond for the new tile installation.
Ardex Multiprime Ardex P 9Downloads & technical resources
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