CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive
CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive is a C1F classified rapid-setting adhesive designed for interior floor and wall tiling applications, providing fast 3-hour setting times for multi-skilled builders working on domestic and light commercial projects.
This water-resistant, fast-setting adhesive is suitable for bed thicknesses from 3-6mm and can be used for interior tiling applications. Mixed with water, it fixes ceramic floor and wall tiles, vitrified tiles, mosaics, quarry tiles and brick slips. With a 3-hour setting and grouting time, CX-03 enables rapid project completion. When used with Dunlop Flexible Additive, this adhesive can be enhanced for use with porcelain tiles and in exterior applications. Exceeds BS EN12004 requirements for C1F tile adhesives.
APPLICATIONS
CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive is suitable for:
- Interior walls
- Interior floors
- Interior dry areas
- Wet areas and bathrooms
- Power showers
- Exterior applications (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive)
- Underfloor heated screeds (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive)
- Electric undertile heating systems (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive)
SUITABLE SUBSTRATES
CX-03 can be applied to:
- Concrete, cement:sand screeds and rendering
- Calcium sulphate-based screeds (anhydrite)
- Plaster (minimum 4 weeks old)
- Existing unglazed ceramic tiles, quarry tiles and natural stone
- Plasterboard (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive)
- Fibre reinforced cement boards and tile backer boards (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive)
- Existing T&G floorboards and plywood floors (with appropriate preparation)
- Asphalt (internal flooring grade)
- Existing vinyl tiles (not cushion floor variety)
- Underfloor heating systems (when properly commissioned)
COMPATIBLE TILE TYPES
CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive is compatible with:
- Glazed ceramic tiles
- Unglazed ceramic tiles
- Porcelain tiles (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive diluted 1:1)
- Natural stone – translucent/water sensitive (use white adhesives CF-03 or CLF-03 recommended for light-coloured stone)
- Natural stone – non translucent
- Ceramic mosaics (sheet-mounted on mesh, paper or plastic)
- Porcelain mosaics (when used with Dunlop Flexible Additive diluted 1:1)
- Natural stone mosaics (use CF-03 white adhesive for translucent varieties)
Note: Not suitable for swimming pools. For these applications, please contact our technical team for product recommendations.
Coverage
A 20kg bag of CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive provides the following coverage at 3mm thickness: approximately 10m² for dry wall areas, or approximately 5.7m² for floors, exterior applications and wet areas. Coverage depends on substrate flatness, trowel size and application method.
Technical Specifications
| Size | 20kg |
| Colour | Grey |
| Classification | C1F (exceeds BS EN12004) |
| Pot Life* | 45 minutes |
| Open Time* | 10-15 minutes |
| Setting Time* | 3 hours |
| Grout After* | 3 hours |
| Bed Thickness | 3-6mm |
| Shelf Life | 12 months |
*Depending on temperature, background conditions and site environment
Please refer to the product datasheet before use. For technical advice or substrate-specific guidance, contact the Dunlop Technical Helpline on 01782 591120 or email info@dunloptrade.com.
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FAQs.
1. What makes the CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive unique for my project?
CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive is specifically designed for contractors and DIY enthusiasts who require a fast and reliable tiling solution. With a fast setting time of just 3 hours, this adhesive is perfect for projects with tight deadlines or areas that need to be reopened quickly. It offers flexible application with a 45 minute pot life, giving you plenty of time to work whilst still providing a fast solution. The adhesive is particularly valuable for interior and limited exterior applications, providing a strong, water-resistant bond that can meet the challenges of different tiling environments.
2. What types of tiles and surfaces can I use this adhesive with?
The CX-03 is compatible with a wide range of interior surfaces, including:
- Concrete
- Cement-sand screeds
- Plaster (minimum 4 weeks old)
- Plasterboard (With Dunlop flexible Additive)
- Existing unglazed tiles (With Dunlop flexible Additive)
- Fibre-reinforced cement boards (With Dunlop flexible Additive)
- Tile backer boards (With Dunlop flexible Additive)
Important considerations:
- Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free from contaminants
- Use Dunlop Flexible Additive for existing glazed tiles or vinyl tiles
- Check that the background is sound and stable
- Verify plasterboard weight limits (maximum 32kg per square meter)
3. How do I prepare my surface before using the CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive?
Surface preparation is critical for a successful tiling project. Follow these key steps:
- Thoroughly clean the surface
- Ensure the area is completely dry
- Remove dust, grease, or loose materials
- Check for and repair any uneven areas or damages
- For porous surfaces, apply Dunlop Multi-Purpose Primer:
- Dilute 1:1 with water
- Improve adhesion
- Ensure even coverage
- For plaster backgrounds, apply two neat coats of Dunlop Multi Purpose Primer
Additional preparation tips:
- Work within a temperature range of 5°C to 25°C
- Avoid tiling in damp conditions
- Verify surface levelness
- Properly prime to ensure the best possible bond
4. How much material will I need and how long before I can grout?
Coverage for the CX-03 Fast Set Tile Adhesive varies depending on the surface: approximately 2kg per square meter for dry wall areas and 3.5kg per square meter for floors, exterior, and wet areas. The recommended bed thickness is 3-6mm, with the option to use up to 12mm in limited areas. After applying the adhesive, you can grout after just 3 hours, making it an excellent choice for time-sensitive projects. Always add an extra 10% to your calculated quantity to account for cuts and waste. The quick setting time means you can complete your tiling project much faster compared to standard adhesives, with tiles ready for grouting in just a few hours.
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