Hi again.

Was under the impression that all adhesives are cement based. I'm obviously not grasping something. Any input???

Pre mixed tubbed stuff is usually acrylic based I believe but don't quote me on that. Maybe wait for the Mapie reps or BAL pst's to come online. They may give a more definate answer.

Originally Posted by Brad

Hi again.

Was under the impression that all adhesives are cement based. I'm obviously not grasping something. Any input???

Russ is right, ready mixed wall tile adhesive is usually acrylic based. Then there are cement based powdered adhesives for walls and floors, and finally Epoxy resin adhesives which are the only ones that are waterproof......Gaz

You can tell by the Codes on the adhesive. C (cement bases/ D Dispersion/ R Reaction Resin. etc

Cement tends to be my preference.
D isn't flexible enough (and i don't mean it isn't flexible in that way i just mean, you got what you got with Tubs where as you can change the cement ones a little to your preference) and R is just a pain in the....arm.

You might find this interesting. It's about the standards and definitions when it comes to adhesives and grouts.

Thanks for that Gaz. I'm a bit confused tho. You say that only epoxy adhesive is waterproof. What about powder and tubbed addy that claims to be waterproof?

Originally Posted by Brad

Thanks for that Gaz. I'm a bit confused tho. You say that only epoxy adhesive is waterproof. What about powder and tubbed addy that claims to be waterproof?

Misleading isn't it.......?....these brands that state this will tend to be sold in the DIY market and not trade bags/tubs........

Originally Posted by Brad

Thanks for that Gaz. I'm a bit confused tho. You say that only epoxy adhesive is waterproof. What about powder and tubbed addy that claims to be waterproof?

This will depend entirely on the respective companies definition of waterproof. I think you will find that they mean it (the adhesive and grout) does not breakdown when it comes into contact with moisture (like gypsum plaster does). Waterproof, by dictionary definition means that water will not "pass through" which it it obviously does with cement based adhesives and grouts, because of the very nature of it's texture.

so to cover all the bases what i really need to do with this outside water feature is use an epoxy resin addy?

Originally Posted by Brad

so to cover all the bases what i really need to do with this outside water feature is use an epoxy resin addy?

I would say no, Brad. Epoxy adhesive/grout is a bit over the top and is only really specified in high hygiene areas like kitchens. You Granite is highly unlikely to be affected by water staining, especially if sealed with an impregnator and if you want to be really sure just use epoxy grout, though if it was me I would use Mapei Ultraclolor Plus black. You don't really need epoxy for any of this.