One. Do ceramic bricks need to be soaked in water?
Glass bricks should not be exposed to water.
Since the absorption rate of tempered bricks is less than 0.5%, it does not require pre-wetting before installation. If tempered bricks are pre-wetted, the surface sealant may be washed away, which can lead to contamination or scratching during installation.
Two, the difference between water-permeable and water-impermeable tiles
Ceramic tiles inherently have gaps between them. Soaking them in water is done to allow the pores to fully absorb water, which ensures that their water absorption rate reaches the minimum standard during installation.
If the mortar is not properly wetted before application, it will not absorb enough water, and the tiles will then absorb the water from the mortar, leading to voids.
- Hollow tiles cannot withstand significant external forces and are prone to cracking upon impact. As the area of the hollow tiles increases, it is likely to result in lifting or detachment.
Therefore, soaking tiles is important, but this does not mean that all tiles need to be soaked. Tiles with a water absorption rate of less than 0.5% do not require soaking before installation, while glazed tiles and floor tiles used in kitchens and bathrooms, which typically have a water absorption rate greater than 10%, do require soaking before installation.
Three. How to prepare tiles for water resistance.
Find a large basin and fill it with water. Then, place the tiles to be soaked in the water, ensuring they are completely submerged. It is important to handle the tiles gently during the soaking process, as excessive handling can damage the glaze on the tile surface, affecting its appearance.