BAL AF Max is a specialist tile adhesive designed for situations where floors are subject to limited lateral movement, vibration or stress. Rather than relying on traditional uncoupling mats, BAL AF Max combines crack-bridging performance and tile fixing into a single product, simplifying installation while maintaining long-term reliability.
Formulated as a highly polymer-modified, rubber-based adhesive, BAL AF Max offers exceptional deformability. This elastomeric behaviour allows it to absorb and dissipate stresses within the substrate, helping to protect tiled finishes from cracking caused by minor movement. It exceeds the requirements of BS EN 12004 C1S2, classifying it as a highly deformable cementitious adhesive suitable for demanding applications.
BAL AF Max is designed for floor installations only and can be used internally and externally, in both dry and wet environments. Typical applications include fixing ceramic, porcelain and vitrified tiles, mosaics, terrazzo and selected natural stones over a wide range of backgrounds. These include concrete, cement:sand screeds, heated screeds, existing tiles, flooring-grade asphalt, timber floors (with correct preparation), and certain vinyl tile substrates.
One of the key technical advantages of BAL AF Max is that it removes the need for uncoupling or decoupling mats. This reduces material handling, speeds up installation, and simplifies build-ups, particularly beneficial on refurbishment projects where floor height is critical. Installation is completed in a single stage, with tiles fixed directly into the adhesive.
BAL AF Max is typically applied at a bed thickness of 3–6mm, with up to 10mm possible in limited areas. It provides a workable open time of around 20 minutes and a pot life of approximately 45 minutes at 20°C. Grouting can usually take place after just five hours, supporting fast-track project schedules.
Correct surface preparation remains essential. Substrates must be flat to SR1 standard, clean, dry and structurally sound, with appropriate priming carried out where specified. When installed in line with BAL guidance, BAL AF Max provides a durable, flexible solution for managing movement beneath tiled floors.
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