Experiencing widespread cracking when applying tile adhesive in winter? Here's a simplified guide to preventing cracks.

Ⅰ.Before construction: 3 things to do to avoid potential hazards.

⒈Choose the right materials: Prioritize "low-temperature crack-resistant" polymer powders (Tg ≤ -5℃). For ordinary polymer powders, prepare plasticizers (3%-5%) and film-forming additives (2%-4%); also have a thermometer/hygrometer, a fan heater, and a humidifier ready.

⒉Control the environment: Maintain a temperature of at least 5℃ (use a heater if necessary, but avoid direct airflow), and a humidity level of 40%-60% (use a humidifier if it's too dry).

⒊Substrate preparation: Moisture content ≤8% (no ice or dew), remove dust and oil stains, fill small cracks with putty, and apply crack-resistant treatment to large cracks.

Ⅱ.Under construction: 4 steps to prevent cracking

⒈Mixing the adhesive: Add water according to the instructions (reduce by 5%-10% in winter). Add the additive to the regular adhesive powder and stir for 3 minutes until there are no lumps. Use within 2 hours. 

⒉Application: Apply a single layer 0.5-1mm thick. For thicker applications, apply in 2-3 coats (with a longer interval between coats than in summer, approximately 50% longer). Apply in the same direction, and apply an extra coat to the corners and edges.

⒊Observation: Check the adhesive film every hour. Stop if wrinkling or whitening occurs, adjust the environment, and then continue. Do not open windows during application. 

⒋Cleaning tools: Wash the scraper and bucket with clean water within 1 hour; do not wait for the adhesive to dry.

Ⅲ.After construction: 2 steps of stable maintenance

⒈Curing time: At least 72 hours (extended to 96 hours at 0℃-5℃). Maintain the specified temperature and humidity, and avoid touching or exposing it to strong winds. ⒉Repairing cracks: For fine cracks (<0.5mm), apply a thin layer of adhesive powder after grinding; for wide cracks (≥0.5mm), remove the cracked film and reapply the coating.

Ⅳ.Avoid these pitfalls (3 reminders)

⒈Avoid forcing construction in low temperatures, as insufficient temperature can easily lead to cracking; 

⒉Do not choose fast-drying adhesive powders (which dry on the outside but remain wet inside, inevitably leading to cracking), instead choose a "slow-drying, stable film-forming" type; 

⒊Record the construction data (temperature, humidity, and quantity used) for future adjustments.