In the world of renovation and construction, choosing the right tile adhesive can mean the difference between a professional finish and medium-term problems. Whether you are laying porcelain stoneware in the living room, non-slip tiles on the terrace or tiles in a bathroom with constant humidity, it is essential to know the types of tile adhesive cement available on the market. In this ParatuReforma article we explain, in a clear and detailed way, the different types, their recommended uses and how to make the right choice to ensure a long-lasting installation without surprises.
What is tile adhesive and why is it essential in construction?
Cement glue, also known as tile adhesive, is a cementitious adhesive designed to fix ceramic tile and natural stone to different types of surfaces. It is one of the most widely used materials in the construction and renovation industry due to its high adhesion capacity, strength and ease of application.
Choosing the right tile adhesive is the key to avoid future problems such as peeling, cracked floors or tiles that peel off over time. At ParatuReforma, your online store specializing in construction materials, we want to help you understand what types exist and how to select the one that best suits your project.
Main components of tile adhesive mortar
- Portland cement as hydraulic binder.
- Controlled granulometry sand to guarantee a good texture.
- Polymeric and organic additives that improve its workability, adhesion, elasticity and water resistance properties.
Types of cement glue: Complete classification according to use and needs
When choosing the right tile adhesive, it is essential to consider the type of substrate, the size of the ceramic tiles, the environmental conditions (indoor/outdoor, humidity, temperature) and the end use of the space. Below is a detailed classification of the most common types of tile adhesive, with specific application examples:
| Type of cement glue | Description | Recommended uses | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cement glue C1 | Basic cementitious adhesive, normal setting | Dry interiors, small parts, conventional tiles | Not suitable for outdoors, humidity or large formats. |
| Cement glue C2 | Improved adhesive, better adhesion and flexibility | Interiors and exteriors, porcelain stoneware, underfloor heating | May require double gluing on large pieces |
| Cement glue C2TE | With reduced slippage and extended open time | Facades, wet areas, large-format ceramics | Longer drying time |
| S1 (deformable) | Deformable adhesive with medium elasticity (2.5-5 mm) | Underfloor heating, facades, large formats | Not suitable for extreme movements |
| S2 (highly deformable) | Adhesive with high elasticity (>5 mm) | Swimming pools, cold storage rooms, high facades | Requires longer setting time |
| F (fast setting) | Fast drying adhesive | Express reforms, fast-paced zones | Shorter correction time |
| T (reduced slip) | Ideal for vertical work or large parts | Heavy or large tiled walls | Slightly denser application |
| E (extended open time) | Increased setting margin after adhesive application | Hot climates, parts requiring adjustments | Requires care with drying time |
| For plaster/plasterboard (A2 or C2F) | Special for porous materials | Interiors with plaster or plasterboard supports | Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces |
| For swimming pools and immersion | Waterproof and flexible adhesive | Areas with permanent humidity, swimming pools, showers, etc. | Requires certified product for immersion |
| Porcelain tile adhesive cement | High adhesion and elasticity for porcelain tiles | Indoor/outdoor, porcelain tile, facades | Ensure format compatibility |
| Superflexible (C2TES2) | Maximum deformability and adhesion | Large-format, ventilated facades, heated floors | Higher cost |
| Thick layer | Special adhesive for thicknesses up to 30 mm | Placement on uneven surfaces | Not suitable for large or light formats |
| Glass or pavés | Waterproof cement glue for glass blocks | Screens, interior partitions | Technical application, requires compatible grouting |
Common uses of tile adhesive in construction and renovation work
- Laying of ceramic tiles on floors and walls.
- Installation of porcelain stoneware in interiors and exteriors.
- Coatings in wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and swimming pools.
- Adhesion on substrates such as plaster, plasterboard, concrete, cement, and even old surfaces.
Normative classification of cement adhesive according to EN 12004
European standard EN 12004 establishes the minimum characteristics that a cementitious adhesive for ceramic tiles must meet. Thanks to this classification, the performance and use of the product can be quickly identified.
Meaning of codes: C, D, R, F, T, E, S1 and S2
- C: Cementitious.
- D: Dispersion (in paste).
- A: Reactive resins (epoxy or polyurethane).
- 1 / 2: Adherence level (1 = normal, 2 = improved).
- F: Fast setting.
- T: Reduced slippage.
- E: Extended open time.
- S1 / S2: Deformability (S1 = deformable, S2 = very deformable).
Practical examples of designation: what does C2TE S1 mean?
A C2TE S1 adhesive is interpreted as:
- C2: Improved cementitious.
- T: With reduced sliding.
- E: Extended open time.
- S1: Deformable.
Ideal for porcelain floors, wet areas and large format surfaces.
Types of tile adhesives according to their adhesion
C1: Basic cementitious adhesive for interiors
Designed for interior installations with conventional high porosity ceramics. It is economical and fast setting, but not suitable for exteriors or large formats.
C2: Enhanced adhesive for indoor and outdoor use
It offers better adhesion, even in outdoor environments or with exposure to water. Perfect for porcelain stoneware, facades and areas with radiant heating.
Types of cement glue according to elasticity or deformability
S1: Deformable cementitious adhesive
Ideal for heated floors, facades or surfaces that may suffer slight dilatations. It offers a deformability of between 2.5 and 5 mm.
S2: Highly deformable cementitious adhesive for extreme conditions
Used in extreme conditions such as cold rooms, swimming pools or ventilated facades with large parts. Its deformability is higher than 5 mm.
Types of cement glue according to additional properties
F: Fast setting
Reduces waiting time for grouting or troweling. Perfect for fast renovations or areas of frequent traffic.
T: Reduced slip
Prevents tiles from shifting during installation. Ideal for large pieces and vertical jobs.
E: Extended open time
It allows to place the pieces even several minutes after having applied the adhesive, without losing adherence.
Differences between thin film and thick film application
Conventional mortar glue vs. thick-bed mortar glue
- Thin film (2-5 mm): Higher performance, controlled adherence, lower consumption.
- Thick layer (up to 30 mm): Useful in irregular floors or small pieces. Requires greater skill in application.
Key factors in choosing the right tile adhesive
Type of substrate: indoor, outdoor, absorbent or impermeable
Choose according to the nature of the substrate: concrete, mortar, plaster, plasterboard, etc.
Dimensions, weight and porosity of ceramic pieces
- Small format: C1 or A1.
- Porcelain or large format: C2TE S1/S2.
- Heavy parts or facades: mechanical anchorage + superflexible.
Frequently asked questions about tile adhesive and its application
Can I use C1 tile adhesive for exteriors?
No, C1 is for indoor use only. For outdoor use, C2 is recommended.
What does it mean for a tile adhesive to be “S1”?
It is deformable, ideal for supports with dilatation.
Which glue to use for porcelain stoneware?
The ideal is C2TE S1 or S2, with good adhesion and flexibility.
What is the best option for swimming pools?
A waterproof, chlorine and water resistant adhesive.
