Tiling an Outside Step

[paulrockliffe]

Just been asked if I'll tile an external step this weekend.

Before I crack on, has anyone any advice on what adhesive I should use and whether I need to be wary of low over-night temperatures if I have the last tile down around 11am?

Done plenty of tiling, but nothing out-doors, so some pointers would be great!

[B17NNS]

Cement based powdered adhesive (flexible if porcelain). Use a rapid-set. Good for around 5 degrees minimum.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/mapei-keraquick-rapid-s...

[paulrockliffe]

Thanks, is the ready mixed stuff the same? The FiL was talking about buying it ready mixed.

Concerned that it was colder than 5 over night last night, or would it be sufficiently set by then?

[B17NNS]

Not really, you want powdered cement based. 5 degrees to 35 degrees is the application temperature. You can grout/allow light foot traffic after 3 hours. Cure time on the Mapei is 24 hours.

Personally Id try to do it on a day when the temperature is unlikely to dip below 5 degrees overnight. If not possible perhaps cover it with hessian or something similar.

[paulrockliffe]

Thanks, OK. I'd happily leave it until it's warm again, but you know.....

I might take roll of loft insulation with me. I'll issue instruction re the powder now....