Peaking tiles. The bane of every homeowner and commercial property’s existence.
Why does this happen? Are tiles sentient beings who also just snap under pressure without the proper foundations? In a way, yes.
Peaking tiles, loose tiles, drummy tiles, lifting tiles – There are many ways to describe this phenomenon, but do you know the reasons why this happens? Let us at DRN Projects, Agents of T.R.I.M. (Tile Reglue Injection Method) explain why this happens.
Poor Installation
When installing tiles, there is a specific troweling technique called ‘back buttering’ that is vital for correct tile adhesion. Incorrect troweling, along with lack of installation care can leave large hollow air pockets beneath the tile which can quickly become loose due to poor adhesion.
Dirty Tiles
Did you know that when new tiles are unboxed, they need a wipe down prior to install? Dirty tiles which have not been cleaned properly before installation have a much higher risk of becoming loose tiles than those that have been thoroughly cleaned. This is because the bonding agent sticks to the dust, rather than your tile. Putting in the extra effort when doing your tile installation is imperative to a long lasting finish.
Fluctuating Temperatures
When we mention temperature, there’s many ways temperature can play a part in loose, popped, tenting and peaking tiles. For example, direct sunlight on your patio tiles, especially if you live in a hot area like sunny Queensland, can cause your tiles to delaminate off the substrate. Artificial cooling and heating, like air conditioners constantly at full blast on scorching summer days or the fireplace emitting extreme warmth to the home; The tiles surrounding your fireplace or around the home, can come loose. This is because the tiling and the substrates heat and cool at different rates which means that they expand and contract differently, causing these issues.
Insufficient Expansion Joint Placement
Tiles expand and contract due to structural and environmental changes. Expansion joints are essentially a pressure release area for the tiling matrix. If there are inadequate expansion joints, the movement of the tiles can become restricted. As the tiles attempt to expand, they may push against each other, causing them to lift against each other or peak. Without enough space for movement, the stress and shear forces exerted on the tiles increase.
Old/Low Quality Tiles
Your home is a member of your family, while we understand the current cost of living is a real strain on families, wouldn’t you want to give your family member the best quality available? As they say, ‘Buy it Nice, or Buy it Twice’. Low quality tiles are often made from cheap materials and aren’t as dense or as straight. This means the level of porosity of the tile is higher, allowing moisture to enter the tile (especially if it is poorly sealed), which then leads to cracked or chipped tiles. You also need to consider that your family will be walking, running, and if you have little ones, commando rolling all over these tiles for many years to come. You want them to last.
This is especially important for investment property owners, while it would be preferable to have the same tenant, you don’t know how many people will be coming and going from your property. Durable tiles will go a long way and save you 1000’s.
Existential Pressure Caused by Society
(Not really, but it’s relatable.)
The real question is, is this easily redeemable? Do you have to rip all those tiles off and replace them all?
While it is a great excuse to renovate, it does cost you a lot of $$$ and there is a more budget-friendly and efficient option to repair those pesky drummy tiles.
So, how can DRN Projects, Agents for T.R.I.M. help?
T.R.I.M. (Tile Reglue Injection Method) involves using Injectabond – a specialised adhesive that is injected beneath the affected tiles on your floor, wall, internal or external tiles through access points in the adjoining grout. There is no need to move out, no need to tear up tiles for resurfacing, no mess or dust, and best of all, this will save you thousands of dollars. On average, it costs about 1/3 of the cost of replacing tiles.
Not only is it budget-conscious, but it is also more suitable for time-poor households such as busy career people or families with small children. Once we have finished the injection, the treated area is suitable for foot traffic 2-12 hours following tile glue injection.
Now that we have given you the rundown, what have you got to lose? Give TRIM (Tile Reglue Injection Method) a call for your obligation FREE quote.