Cold weather creates certain problems in tiling if you go ahead with daily routine of fixing tiles without understanding the impact of the weather. In India particularly, there are only a few areas where sub-zero freezing temperatures are observed. However, are those the only areas where one should be careful in tiling? - answer is a big NO. Wherever you are, if weather gets cold, it definitely will have impact on tiling procedure and curing time. Let us go over them one by one to understand and fix the issues.

1. If temperatures goes sub zero after tiling - before getting cured?

Water in tile mortar freezes and coverts into ice. It mostly ruptures portland cement gel structure which in turn mean a significant loss in strength, flexibility & durability. It permanently damages the structure and subsequent course correction is extremely costly and tough to achieve.

2. How does the.change in temperature impact the setting time?

A basic rule suggests that when there is a low temperature, with every 8 degree celcius fluctuation in temperature below 21 degree celcius, setting time of portland cement takes double time to cure. For example, in controlled environment, if it takes 24 hours to set at constant 20 degree celcius then in the same controlled environment it will take 48 hours to set at constant 12 degree celcius. In real life, there is no controlled environment and constant temperature. Hence, setting time will vary. However, it is 100% sure that it will take more time to cure - almost 1.5 to 2 times at every 8 degree. It is hence advisable to use appropriate tile adhesive depending on the need of settling time in cold weather which reduces the setting time significantly.

3. What precautions are to be taken in cold weather tile installations?

As cold weather increases the time for portland cement to cure and get strength, it is advisable to avoid installation area for quite longer than normal periods. One should try to keep all the traffic away from installation area after tiles are fixed until fully cured. Allow extended cure time. Even grouting must not be done on same day or next day to make sure that tiles are fixed appropriately and cured fully.