The main purpose of tile adhesive is to bond the tile to the substrate or surface.
There are different varieties of tile adhesives with specific requirements.
Depending on the location, surface, and type of tile, you will need to choose the appropriate tile adhesive.
The tile adhesive also has an expiration date printed on the label. In general, the shelf life of a properly stored, unopened, ready-mixed tile adhesive will be around six months to 1 year.
An opened container of ready-mix adhesive has a shelf life of approximately nine months when stored properly.
The shelf life may vary according to the type of ready-mixed tile adhesive.
Although there is an expiration date, that does not mean the tile adhesive will go off or become dry the sooner it passes the expiration date.
What Is Ready-Mixed Tile Adhesive
The two major types of tile adhesive are powder and ready-mixed tile adhesive.
In this blog, you will understand the shelf life of ready-mixed tile adhesive.
The ready-mixed tile adhesive will dry through the evaporation process.
Hence, the process of curing will be slower. Ready-mixed tile adhesives are cheap and ready to use. Therefore, you don’t have to mix it with water when applying.
This tile adhesive is ideal for bonding 300 x 300 mm ceramic tiles.
Imagine that you are engaged in some small tiling work at home. Since the work does not need a more versatile adhesive, ready-mix adhesive will be best.
This product will help to do the job quickly.
In contrast, since the ready-mixed adhesive is not suitable for large projects or surfaces with high moisture, you will have to pick an alternative adhesive.
How Long Does Ready Mixed Tile Adhesive Last?
Most ready-mixed tile adhesives will have 6 to 12 months of shelf life. In some cases, the adhesive may be set before the expiration date. This is mainly due to improper storage.
Under proper storage conditions, the adhesive will stay good even a few days past the expiration date.
The main reason for printing an expiration or best-before date on the tile adhesive is that it might start to set over time.
Hence the date will help to let you have a rough idea of how long the product will stay in its usable state.
What Happens To An Opened Tile Adhesive’s Shelf Life?
Once you open the container of ready-mixed tile adhesive, its shelf life will reduce to seven months from the manufacturing date. You can use the tile adhesive again only if you store it properly and prevent it from setting.
When using tile adhesive from a used container, it is better to check whether there are any changes in its texture.
Imagine that you opened a container of ready-mixed adhesive a week ago for a small project.
Then you seal it and store it away from sunlight to use it again. When using it again, ensure check whether it is in a usable state. If so, you can use it without fear.
Why You Should Not Use Ready-Mixed Tile Adhesive After Passing The Expiration Date
Suppose you purchased a container of ready-mixed adhesive and stored it for extended periods without opening it.
When you check the product label, you notice that it expired a few days ago. Will you still use this adhesive?
First, you must open the container and check whether the ready-mixed adhesive has started setting. If you think it is still in a usable state, you can use it at your own risk. Most professionals recommend not using expired tile adhesive to avoid risks.
How Do You Keep An Opened Tile Adhesive?
After opening the ready-mixed tile adhesive, if you have leftovers, you can store them for later use instead of dumping them in the trash.
When storing the leftovers, seal the container properly and place it in a cool, dry place.
This way, you can prevent the adhesive from setting.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Ready-Mixed Tile Adhesive
The primary benefit of using ready-mixed adhesive is that it comes in a ready-to-use format.
As a result, no preparation is required before use.
The process is less messy as there is no mixing of water.
The easy application process also saves you time and effort.
Is Ready-Mixed Adhesive Better Than Other Tile Adhesives?
The ready-mixed adhesive is the perfect choice if you are dealing with small glazed ceramic tiles.
In contrast, you must use this for something other than more extensive projects.
It is hard to point out one tile adhesive as the best since the different types of adhesive are for various purposes.
Similarly, ready-mixed adhesives will work well if you use them for the appropriate project.
Usually, many people need help choosing the right type of tile adhesive to install their tiles. Hence, in the next section, you will find out when to use the ready-mix adhesive to make it less complex.
When To Use Ready-Mixed Adhesive
If you use ready-mixed adhesive to bond the tiles, installing ceramic tiles in a backsplash will be simple.
When tiling your shower, bathroom, or kitchen walls, you can use a waterproof ready-mix adhesive.
The non-slip, showerproof, ready-mixed adhesive will be a great option for kitchen and bathroom floors.
Because there are various ready-mixed adhesives, you can consult with professionals to help you choose the best one for your project.
Final Thoughts
The shelf life of the ready-mixed adhesive will be approximately a year. When you open the container, the shelf life will reduce and might vary depending on the storage method.
When using adhesive from a previously opened bottle, you must check its state before application. Also, it is best to refrain from using tile adhesive that has passed the expiration date.
Depending on the type of project, choosing the best ready-mixed tile adhesive will make the task easy and durable.
FAQs
Does Ready-Mixed Tile Adhesive Take Long To Dry?
Yes, the ready-mixed product will take longer to dry than a powder-based adhesive.
Can I Use Ready-Mixed Tile Adhesive On A Concrete Or Sand Surface?
No, it is better to use powdered adhesive on such surfaces.
You can use ready-mixed adhesive on plaster and cement boards.
Do I Need To Mix Water With The Ready-Mixed Tile Adhesive?
No, you don’t have to mix water with this adhesive since it comes in a ready-to-use form.
Hence, you can directly apply it and bond the tiles to the surface.
How Long Does It Take For The Ready-Mixed Adhesive To Dry?
The ready-mixed adhesive should dry for at least 24 hours on average.
How Do The Ready-mixed Adhesives Dry?
These adhesives dry through evaporation.