ARDEX G8S Flex Joint Mortar 16mm

Application Area

Interior and exterior floors and walls
For jointing polished tiles made of fine stoneware, porcelain stoneware, and ceramic ware
Glass tiles
Natural and concrete stone slabs resistant to moisture
Mosaics made of glass, porcelain, and ceramics
Especially suitable for fine stoneware
For joint widths of 1 – 6 mm

Type

Zinc-bound joint mortar with fine-grain fillers and special additives for fine surface joints with high strength and optimal processing quality, with long wash-out time. When mixed with water, it forms a smooth, paste-like, and economical mortar that is easy to work with, does not burn out, has high bond strength, and adheres firmly and crack-free in the joints. The surface of the joint is fine.

Properties

ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16, after curing, exhibits water- and dirt-repellent properties, which positively influence the visual appearance, condition, and durability of the coverings. Its high deformability and good edge adhesion reduce stress in thermally stressed tiles and significantly contribute to the safety of the coverings.

Processing

In a clean mixing container, add clear water and mix the ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 powder into a lump-free, paste-like mortar. Mixing ratio:

125 kg ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 approx. 27.5 l water
5 kg ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 approx. 1.1 l water

The mortar is workable for about 30 minutes at 20°C. Higher temperatures shorten the processing time, lower temperatures extend it. The mortar has high bond strength and can be easily pressed into the joints with a jointing trowel or rubber squeegee. Moderate setting allows for larger tiles to be preferred and enables efficient work. After slight initial setting, a second application with ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 can be applied if necessary. Once the mortar has sufficiently stabilized, the inserted tiles are cleaned with a damp sponge or sponge board. After longer standing times, the tiles should be moistened to facilitate cleaning. Residual mortar film can be removed later with a damp sponge.

For pre-wetting the tiles, conventional pressure or garden spray devices are suitable. These devices apply a uniform water film to the tiles to be washed, preventing excess water during pre-wetting and reducing the risk of staining.

ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 can be processed at temperatures above 5°C.

Important Notes

In porous surfaces of tiles and slabs, residual mortar may settle. Particularly heavily pigmented joint mortars generally require increased cleaning effort. These tiles may need to be re-cleaned the next day with suitable cleaning agents. Spot joints of such coverings cannot be omitted. When grouting, the joints should be rinsed beforehand. Moisture in the substrate and varying absorption capacities can cause color differences in the joints. If necessary, scrape out the joints before applying the mortar. Do not leave a water film on the joints.

Zinc-bound joints are not acid-resistant. Acid cleaners, such as those made with citric acid, vinegar, or other acids, can cause long-term damage to the joints. When using such cleaning agents, the joints should be pre-cleaned. Generally, neutral or slightly alkaline cleaning agents are recommended for cleaning tile coverings.

General Recommendations

Instead of cement-based joint materials, ARDEX WA epoxy grout or ARDEX RG 12 16 fine epoxy grout should be used in health and swimming pool buildings and other high-stress areas.

For grouting moisture-sensitive natural stone slabs without staining indoors, ARDEX MG natural stone grout should be used or a test grouting should be performed to ensure no permanent edge staining occurs when using ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16.

Despite preventive protection against mold, thorough and regular cleaning and maintenance of the joints cannot be dispensed with.