Choosing the Right Adhesive for Flexible Stone: Visual Guide

Flexible Stone (soft ceramic panels) requires the right adhesive to ensure durability, aesthetic appeal, and long-term performance. This guide provides a clear comparison of the main adhesive options and practical installation tips.

Adhesive Comparison Table

Adhesive Type	Form	Mixing / Use	Coverage / Quantity	Pros	Cons	Recommended Use
Two-Component Epoxy Resin	Powder + Liquid	Mix 80% powder + 20% liquid, no water	~2 kg/m², full coverage (≥90%)	Strong bonding, durable, professional finish	Requires skill, time-consuming, sensitive to temperature	Interior & exterior, large/heavy panels, long-term projects
Tile Adhesive	Powder (mix with water 1:4)	Stir 5–6 hours, use promptly	3–4 kg/m², full coverage (≥90%)	Convenient, export-friendly, widely available	Slightly less durable than epoxy	Interior & exterior, export projects, general installations
Structural Silicone Adhesive	Pre-filled cartridge	Spot application, use with caulking gun	Based on spot size	Quick, easy, minimal skill needed	Not durable, may cause bulging, not for exterior	Temporary interior installations or display areas

Installation Tips

Surface Preparation

• Substrate must be flat, solid, and clean

• Remove dust, grease, and standing water

• Waterproofing is required for wet areas or exterior walls

• Smooth surfaces (tiles, steel) should be roughened, primed, or mesh-reinforced

Panel Fixing

• Large/heavy panels (≥1200×2400 mm) require a row of nails on the upper half only

• Avoid nailing in the middle/lower section to prevent slipping or hollow spots

Gap Recommendations

• Interior: Leave 1–2 mm micro-gaps, optional to fill

• Exterior:

• Small panels: 8–10 mm gap

• Medium panels: 6–8 mm gap

• Fill with appropriate grout for waterproofing

Cleaning and Finishing

• Remove excess adhesive after drying with a troweland semi-dry sponge

• Do not wet-clean immediately, to prevent white streaks

Working & Curing Times

Key Takeaways

1. Professional choice: Two-component epoxy resin for long-lasting, durable installations.

2. Convenient alternative: Tile adhesive for export projects and general installations.

3. Limited use: Structural silicone only for temporary interior applications.

Tip: Full adhesive coverage (≥90%) is essential for proper bonding, especially for large or heavy panels.

Contact WIFi Ceramics for Expert Advice

For more guidance on Flexible Stone installation, adhesive selection, or technical support, contact WIFi Ceramics: Email: sales@wificeramics.com

Our team can provide detailed advice tailored to your project, including recommended adhesives, installation tips, and troubleshooting support.