What kind of glue are polystyrene concrete blocks placed on, rules of use

Because polystyrene concrete blocks are lightweight and have excellent insulation qualities, they are a popular choice in construction. However, it’s essential to use the proper kind of adhesive to guarantee a sturdy and long-lasting structure. Choosing the right glue has an effect on the bond’s strength as well as the blocks’ overall functionality.

There are numerous kinds of adhesives on the market, each with unique benefits and ways to use them. Making an informed choice and getting the best results from your building project can be facilitated by being aware of these glues’ characteristics.

This post will discuss the various glue types that work well with polystyrene concrete blocks and the guidelines for using them. Whether you’re a skilled builder or a do-it-yourselfer, this guide will give you important tips to make sure your construction is dependable and effective.

Type of Glue	Rules of Use
Polyurethane Adhesive	Apply in a thin, even layer. Press blocks together immediately. Works well in cold conditions.
Cement-Based Adhesive	Mix according to instructions. Apply with a notched trowel. Ensure surfaces are clean and moist.
Mortar Glue	Mix thoroughly. Apply generously. Suitable for larger gaps and adjustments.

Composition for polystyrene concrete masonry

Glue, not cement mortar, is the recommended method for laying polystyrene concrete blocks. The walls lose some of their sound and thermal insulation when they are placed on a cement mixture. The blocks retain these beneficial properties even after the glue is applied, but selecting the appropriate composition is necessary.

Classical

During the warm season, classic glue is used for construction projects. Masonry can be done down to a minimum temperature of +5 degrees.

Benefits of it:

• The possibility of performing thin-haired masonry, 1-3 cm thick.
• Structural strength.
• High speed of construction.
• Gray color of the composition, which harmonizes with the color of the blocks.
• Possibility of use for external and internal work.
• Affordable price. Classic glue is cheaper than its analogues with additives.

The time restriction is this glue’s primary drawback. It is best to finish wall masonry during the warm season.

Well-known producers:

• Betonkol. The mixture is used for the installation of lightweight concrete blocks. A distinctive feature of the composition is the possibility of its use within 4 hours. However, only 5 minutes are available for adjustments.
• Keraflex. Temperature range for use from +5 to +35 degrees.
• Ytong thin joint masonry mortar.

Winter

Unlike other adhesives, winter adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks can be applied in below-freezing temperatures.

In cold weather, it does not become hard or delaminate. It is possible to perform masonry at temperatures as low as -10 to -15 degrees. Specifications differ depending on the manufacturer.

Key benefits of using winter glue are:

• Reduced material costs, since durable masonry does not require increasing the layer thickness.
• Strength. It does not freeze in the cold, penetrates the porous structure of the block, ensuring the reliability of the wall.
• Possibility of using the prepared solution for 2-3 hours.
• Low thermal conductivity. Since the layer thickness does not exceed 2-3 mm, cold bridges do not form in the wall.

Winter glue’s drawbacks include its expensive price when compared to traditional compositions and the solution’s dark color, which is brought on by the addition of unique additives to the mixture.

Producers of winter adhesive:

• AEROC. Its maximum minus range is -10 degrees.
• Ivsil Block. The composition includes additives that increase the hardening time of the diluted mass. You can work with it at a temperature of -15 degrees.
• Ceresit CT21. Maas does not harden for 4 hours, has high adhesion with a concrete surface.
• Ytong winter. Can be used at temperatures down to -10 degrees. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Heat saving

In areas with severe winters, construction materials are made with heat-saving adhesive. These compositions aid in preventing cold bridges, which frequently develop in the seam region. The walls gain strong load resistance and hydrophobicity.

Benefits

• Maintaining a stable temperature in the room.
• Material savings due to thin seams.
• High plasticity of the composition.
• Strong adhesion to the block surface.
• Possibility of choosing glue for work in cold and warm seasons.

The benefits of frost-resistant glue are infinite. The only drawback is that it will cost more than the traditional composition.

Producers:

• Ivsil Block. It is waterproof and frost-resistant.
• Betonkol. Can withstand up to 200 freezing cycles.
• Polystyrol G-32.

Adhesive mixture ingredients

The components of the adhesive mixture used to lay polystyrene concrete blocks are as follows:

• Portland cement M-500.
• Dolomite flour.
• Fractional quartz sand.
• Plasticizers.
• Amorphous silica fume.

The set of parts varies based on the manufacturer. To strengthen the solution, improve its resistance to frost, or keep it from freezing in the winter, add additives to the mixture. The cost of the product increases with composition complexity.

Solvents like acetone or gasoline should not be added to the mixture since they damage the block structure.

How to cook properly?

Preparation instructions for glue may differ slightly. You must carefully read the label before mixing the solution because it contains the precise sequence of actions.

Here is the overall action plan:

1. Water is poured into the prepared container. Per 1 bag of a mixture weighing 25 kg is used about 5.5-6 liters of liquid.
2. Constantly stirring the mixture using a construction mixer or a drill with a whisk attachment, bring it to a homogeneous consistency.
3. Leave the solution to sit for 5-7 minutes. During this time, all modifiers should disperse.
4. Mix the composition again. Its consistency should resemble thick sour cream.

You must take safety measures when mixing the mixture, keeping it away from exposed body parts and mucous membranes.

Consumption

Because the surface of polystyrene concrete blocks is smooth, the seam thickness typically stays between 2 and 8 mm. One standard package, or approximately 25 kg of glue, is needed for every cubic meter if the masonry technology is used.

The dry mixture should be taken with a reserve, though, as certain factors may increase consumption. This reserve should be based on a calculation of 35 kg per 1 m 3. If there are any irregularities that will be filled with glue, more of it will be required. Also, running during the winter results in a 25% increase in consumption.

What counts is the master’s experience in laying. Insufficient amounts run the risk of causing more solution to be mixed than is required.

Excess glue cannot be redissolved with water once it dries out due to a slow working pace.

Features of application

When laying concrete blocks made of polystyrene, the following characteristics must be considered:

• Building elements must be clean. It is unacceptable for dirt, dust or ice to stick to them.
• Apply the glue in an even layer using a trowel of suitable width.
• The block is laid with light pressure, no later than 5-10 minutes after applying the composition to the base. Within 10-20 minutes its position can be adjusted.
• The recommended seam thickness is 2-6 mm.
• In the hot season and when working in the sun, the setting time of the composition is reduced, so laying must be done quickly.

How long does it take to set and gain strength??

The glue brand affects setting time and strength development. Standard indicators for classical solutions:

1. The setting time of the solution after its application to the surface is about 20 minutes.
2. The seam hardens within 24-30 hours.
3. Complete hardening after installation is observed after 3 days.

A good glue shouldn’t dry out in less than 15 minutes or more than 20 minutes.

Pros and cons of using

Using glue to lay polystyrene concrete blocks has the following benefits:

• Thin seam, which ensures low material consumption and no heat loss.
• Wide range, the ability to choose a mixture for masonry at different times of the year.
• Fast curing.
• High adhesion, ensuring a strong connection of blocks to each other.
• Can be used for external and internal masonry, for fixing solid and half blocks, for gluing small elements.
• Inclusion of additives responsible for moisture retention and a high level of block strength.

There aren’t many drawbacks to glue, since it’s the preferred method for applying polystyrene concrete blocks.

One of its minor disadvantages is the pricey nature of premium additive mixtures. Nonetheless, the cost is soon recouped due to the building’s strength and the reduction in room heating.

The inability to reuse the glue is another drawback, but this is offset by the fact that most solutions can be used three to four hours after mixing.

Price

The cost of winter glue varies greatly. Starting at 250 rubles for a 25 kg bag, they go up to 1300 rubles for a package of the same weight.

The price of a pack of classic mixture is roughly 220 rubles. The price starts at 330 rubles if the composition includes additives for greater heat conservation.

The cost of masonry mortar cannot be cut. Its quality determines the structure’s overall strength.

Selecting the appropriate adhesive for polystyrene concrete blocks is essential to guaranteeing a sturdy and long-lasting construction. Because they work well to bond and are compatible with the blocks, cement-based adhesives are typically chosen. Over time, these adhesives preserve the integrity of the construction by offering a dependable grip.

It’s crucial to mix and apply cement-based adhesives according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The adhesive mix must be properly prepared for maximum performance and durability. To optimize adhesion, the blocks’ surface should also be dust-free and clean.

To create a wall that is even and stable, proper adhesive application is essential. To create a uniform layer of adhesive on the block surface, use a trowel with a notched surface. This facilitates precise block alignment, minimizes gaps, and guarantees a tight fit.

Polystyrene concrete blocks are a popular option for building projects because of their exceptional durability and insulation. A long-lasting and successful build can be achieved by choosing the right adhesive and applying it according to the instructions.

It’s essential to use the proper adhesive when installing polystyrene concrete blocks to guarantee stability and longevity. For these blocks, a specialty construction adhesive is best, such as polyurethane foam adhesive or thin-bed mortar. The adhesive must be applied evenly, clean surfaces must be maintained, and correct alignment and pressure must be applied. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure sturdy, long-lasting joints and avoid structural problems with your building project.

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