Ardex X78 Microtec Standard Tile Adhesive Grey 20kg
Ardex X78 Microtec Standard Tile Adhesive Grey 20kg
- Semi-pourable, fibre-reinforced adhesive ideal for large format floor tiles.
- Extended open time of 60 minutes and 3-hour pot life for flexible installation.
- High yield – covers up to 5.6 m² at 3 mm thickness per 20 kg bag.
- Suitable for internal, external, wet areas, and underfloor heating systems.
- Meets BS EN 12004 C2 E standards for superior performance and durability.
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| Type | Adhesive |
|---|---|
| Brand | Ardex |
| Model | X78 |
ARDEX X 78 Semi-Pourable Floor Tile Adhesive
ARDEX X 78 has been specifically engineered to suit modern large-format tiles, offering a semi-pourable consistency that provides a solid bed fix without the need for back-buttering. Its high yield, extended open time, and easy workability make it ideal for commercial and residential floor applications — both internal and external, including swimming pools and areas with underfloor heating.
Key Features
- MICROTEC® fibre-reinforced for superior strength and flexibility
- Ideal for large format floor tiles and solid bed fixing
- Extended open time – up to 60 minutes
- Long pot life – up to 3 hours
- High yield – covers up to 5.6 m² at 3 mm thickness per 20 kg bag
- Suitable for internal and external use, including swimming pools
- Compatible with underfloor heating systems
- Low embodied carbon: 0.49 kg CO₂ eq/kg (A1–A3 production stage)
Technical Data
| Property | ARDEX X 78 Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | MICROTEC® Fibre-Reinforced Semi-Pourable Floor Tile Adhesive |
| Colour | Grey |
| Unit Size | 20 kg |
| Classification | BS EN 12004 C2 E – Improved Cementitious Adhesive with Extended Open Time |
| Bed Thickness | 1 – 6 mm |
| Pot Life | ≈ 3 hours @ 20 °C |
| Open Time | Up to 60 minutes |
| Adjustment Time | Up to 30 minutes |
| Groutable After | 24 hours @ 20 °C |
| Coverage | ≈ 5.6 m² per 20 kg bag @ 3 mm thickness |
| Yield | ≈ 16.65 L of mortar per 20 kg bag |
| Fresh Mortar Density | ≈ 1.6 kg/L |
| Tensile Adhesion Strength (28 days dry) | ≥ 1.0 – 2.0 N/mm² |
| Tensile Adhesion Strength (after water immersion) | ≥ 1.0 N/mm² |
| Tensile Adhesion Strength (after freeze/thaw) | ≥ 1.0 N/mm² |
| Underfloor Heating Compatibility | Yes – suitable for heated floors |
| External Use | Yes – including swimming pools and wet areas |
| Embodied Carbon | 0.49 kg CO₂ eq/kg (A1–A3 stage) |
Surface Preparation & Application
Ensure the substrate is clean, firm, and free from contaminants. ARDEX X 78 can be applied to dry or slightly damp substrates but must not be used on moisture-sensitive materials unless they are completely dry. For waterproofing, use the ARDEX WPC Waterproof Protection System prior to tiling.
Mix approximately 7.2 litres of clean water per 20 kg bag using a paddle mixer until a smooth, pourable consistency is achieved. Apply with a notched trowel and fix tiles within the adhesive’s open time. Tiles can be adjusted for up to 30 minutes.
Grouting & Finishing
Grouting can commence after 24 hours using ARDEX-FLEX Tile Grout or ARDEX EG8 Epoxy Hybrid Grout for hygienic or chemical-resistant applications.
Common FAQs
- Can ARDEX X 78 be used outdoors?
- Yes, it is suitable for internal and external applications including wet areas and swimming pools.
- Is ARDEX X 78 suitable for underfloor heating?
- Yes, it can be used with most heated screeds and underfloor heating systems.
- Do I need to back-butter large tiles?
- The semi-pourable consistency usually provides full coverage without back-buttering, except for very uneven or textured tiles.
- How soon can I grout after fixing?
- Normally after 24 hours at 20 °C, depending on the tile and substrate porosity.
- What primer should I use before applying ARDEX X 78?
- Use ARDEX P 51 for absorbent backgrounds or ARDEX P 4 for smooth, non-absorbent surfaces.
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Genesis (trims) — £19 + VAT · 1–3 days · cut-off 11:00 am
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Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery. You also have a statutory 14-day cancellation right from the date of receipt.
Items must be unused & in original packaging
Returned goods must be uninstalled, unaltered and in the same condition as received.
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How to start a return
Contact us first at info@tileexperience.co.uk or call 0208 689 4187. Send the item back with your name and order number. Return shipping is the customer's responsibility.
Refund to original payment method
Processed within 3–5 working days of us receiving and approving your return.
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Returns for Genesis, Marmox and Bihui carry up to a 20% restocking fee. Schluter trims: 35% standard return, 15% if returning with a replacement order.
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