ARDEX G8S Flex Joint Mortar 16mm

Application Area
Indoor and outdoor floors and walls
For jointing polished tiles made of porcelain stoneware, ceramic, and earthenware
Glass tiles
Natural and concrete stone slabs resistant to moisture
Mosaics made of glass, porcelain, and ceramics
Specially for porcelain stoneware
For joint widths of 1 – 6 mm

Type
Cement-bound joint mortar with fine-grain fillers and special additives for fine surface joints with high strength and optimal processing quality with long washout time
When mixed with water, it forms a smooth, paste-like, and economical mortar that is easy to work with, does not burn in, 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 favorably affect 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 ca. 27.5 l water
5 kg ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 ca. 1.1 l water
The mortar is workable at 20°C for approximately 30 minutes. 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 setting of the mortar, a second application with ARDEX G 8 S FLEX 16 can be made 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 later be removed 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 cleaned, 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 to note
Porous surfaces of tiles and slabs may retain residues of the joint material. Especially heavily pigmented joint mortars generally require increased cleaning effort. These tiles may need to be re-cleaned the next day with suitable cleaning agents. Testing such coverings with a trial joint is therefore recommended.
When grouting, the joints should be rinsed beforehand. Moisture in the substrate and varying absorption capacities can cause color differences in the joints. Remove excess mortar from the joints before it sets. Do not leave a water film on the joints.
Cement-bound joints are not resistant to cleaning.
Acidic 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 mildly alkaline cleaning agents are recommended for cleaning tile coverings.

General Advice
Instead of cement-based joint materials, ARDEX WA epoxy grout or ARDEX RG 12 16 fine epoxy grout should be used in healing and swimming pool environments and other high-stress areas.
For grout joints in moisture-sensitive natural stone slabs indoors, ARDEX MG natural stone grout should be used or a trial grouting should be performed to ensure that 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 omitted.