Problem : Debonding (Detachment of tiles from either between tile and adhesive or between adhesive and substrate)

• Probable Causes :
  • Poor preparation of substrate (sandy substrate).
  • Adhesive not strong enough.
  • Absorption of water from mortar by porous tiles that have not been sufficiently wet.
  • Insufficient contact between tile and tile bed due to: insufficient tapping of tiles into position, laying tiles too long after adhesive is spread, improper tools for spreading adhesive.
• Prevention :
  • Practise correct installation method.
  • Precautions must be taken during planning and design stage.