Installation Instructions
tecspecialty.com
H.B. Fuller Construction Products Inc.
1105 South Frontenac Street
Aurora, IL 60504-6451
TEC
®
Sturdi Flex
™
Thin Set Mortar Product Data
©Copyright 2013 H.B. Fuller Construction Products Inc.
TEC
®
, Sturdi Flex™, EZ Level
®
, AccuColor EFX
®
and Super Flex™
are trademarks of H.B. Fuller Construction Products Inc. DS345/346 R1213-1
Physical Properties
Description
Physical State Dry powder
Color Available in white and gray
Pot Life 2 to 3 hours
Initial Cure [at 72°F (22°C) 16 to 24 hours
Final Cure 21 days
Foot Traffic Rating (ASTM C627)
Residential to Extra Heavy Commercial
(depending on substrate)
Storage
Store in cool, dry location. Do not store open
containers.
Shelf Life
Maximum 1 year from date of manufacture in
properly stored, unopened package.
5. INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Mixing
For best results, maintain all tiling materials, substrates, room and adhesives
at 50°-70°F (10-21°C) for 24 hours before and 48 hours after installation.
Thoroughly mix 50 lbs. (22.68 kg) Sturdi Flex™ with 1 to 1
1
⁄2
gallons (3.8 to 5.7 L)
clean, cool water.
Add powder to liquid for ease of mixing. Mix material to a thick creamy
consistency, then allow the mortar to stand for 10 minutes. Remix and apply.
Avoid breathing dust and contact with eyes and skin. Avoid using high speed
mixing, not to exceed 300 rpm, to prevent entraining air.
Application
Apply mortar using flat side of trowel to promote better substrate contact, then
comb in one direction with the notched side of the trowel. Spread only an area
that can be tiled while surface is still tacky (typically 20-30 minutes). Press tiles
into setting bed, then push in a direction perpendicular to the notched trowel
ridges to achieve optimum coverage. Apply mortar in a heavy enough layer so that
complete contact (no voids) between mortar and tile is accomplished when tile is
positioned. It may be necessary to “back-butter” large tiles to achieve complete
coverage and firm support. Periodically remove and check a tile to assure proper
coverage. Keep a minimum of
2
⁄3
of the joint depth between tiles for grouting.
Open time and tile hand adjustability may vary with job site conditions. Stir
occasionally during use to maintain the smooth, creamy consistency of the
product. Do not add additional water.
Clean-up
Clean tools, hands, and excess materials from face of tile, while mortar is still
fresh, with warm soapy water.
Grouting/Curing
Grouting may be accomplished when tiles are held firmly in place, typically 16 to
24 hours after installation is completed. No traffic is permitted over the tiles prior
to grouting. Cold temperatures or high humidity may extend curing time. Unglazed
tiles may require sealing prior to grouting so discolorations will not occur. The use
of TEC
®
brand grouts is highly recommended.
6. AVAILABILITY
TEC
®
Premium Tile and Stone Installation Products are available nationwide.
To locate TEC
®
products in your area, please contact:
Phone: 800-832-9002
Website: tecspecialty.com
7. WARRANTY
For warranty details, see your sales associate or tecspecialty.com.
8. MAINTENANCE
Not applicable
9. TECHNICAL SERVICES
Technical assistance
Information is available by calling the Technical Support Hotline.
Toll Free: 800-832-9023
Fax: 630-952-1235
Technical and safety literature
To acquire technical and safety literature, please
visit our website at tecspecialty.com.
10. FILING SYSTEM
Division 9