The popping out of floor tiles is just one of the nightmares for every homeowner in Singapore. At first, it creates a loud cracking noise while the floor tiles look inflated. Without any warning, it shatters into several pieces within a split second, leaving a huge mess. Singaporean homeowners are left frustrated and somehow traumatised by this situation. Other people are seeking services that offer floor tiles repair in Singapore.
These untoward events have gained the attention of many news media outlets, including the authorities. The Ministry of National Development (MND), a government institution which is in charge of national land use planning and development, acknowledged these unwanted cases of floor tiles popping.
So, what is causing floor tiles to pop in Singapore? Also, what are the ways they can prevent it from ever happening again?
What Is Popping Floor Tiles?
The commonly used materials for floor tiles are ceramic and marble. Their aesthetic appearance, sturdiness and smoothness make these materials highly preferred by Singaporean homeowners. Although these floor tiles may look unbreakable and sturdy. There’s always a possibility that these types of floor tiles would shatter if they are not properly installed during the construction. Moreover, there are also cases of popping floor tiles which is an unpredictable scenario that no one can anticipate. It is usually caused by extreme factors such as weather changes, earthquakes, wear and tear, and poor workmanship.
Weather and Temperature Changes
Many homeowners are unaware that weather and temperature changes can affect the installation process. Weather changes and temperature may lead to floor tiles’ dislodgement or popping out. Over time, the difference in thermal expansion or contraction of the tiles can cause a loss of adhesion between the tiles and the screed surface.
Although Singapore is not one of those countries that have extreme temperature changes, there have been several cases of tiles popping out due to weather changes.
There were an estimated 580 reported cases of dislodged tiles in December 2019. It is when the weather is colder and the temperature fluctuates unpredictably. This was far more than the year’s average monthly case count of 247. Heavy rain is also another cause of floors popping out in Singapore. The floor tiles’ material can absorb unwanted moisture and trap it. This results in the expansion and swelling of the floor tiles, creating pressure that causes them to pop out.
Poor Workmanship
Another possible cause of dislodged tiles would be poor workmanship. Contractors usually comment that one of the possible reasons why floor tiles pop up is because of poor workmanship during the installation of the floor tiles.
In order to maximise the flooring’s integrity, floor tiles must be installed over an extremely well-mixed cement screed. Air pockets form beneath the tiles when the sand, cement, and water are not mixed evenly to make the cement base. It creates unwanted air bubbles responsible for the prevention of proper tile adhesion. Thus, it increases the chance and possibility of floor tiles popping out.
The reason why many contractors are very meticulous when it comes to the evenness of the cement screed surface. In order to prevent this kind of scenario from happening.
Leakage Under Floor Tiles
There are several reasons why leakage does happen. It could have been caused by leaking pipes. The water that is coming out of the pipe could cause serious damage to your walls or to your floor tiles. The tiles become an ideal breeding ground for mould when they are constantly exposed to moisture and dampness. It would impose a serious health hazard.
In addition, the moisture that seeps through the tiles could ruin them over time and may result in popping floor tiles.
It is critical to repair the water leak before it causes further damage. So, how do you keep water from leaking through your tiles?
M3M: Waterproofing Tiles Repair Expert in Singapore
It is not an easy task to fix a leaking pipe in your property, and if you are in need of an expert, then you might want to consider M3 Multiservices Pte Ltd (M3).
M3M is one of the leading waterproofing service contractors in Singapore. The company offers a wide array of services, which include on-site analysis to fully understand the challenges and provide multiple options that are best suited for the needs of your property.
M3M provides a range of waterproofing services such as RC flat roofs, pitched roofs, fixed roof awnings, open balconies, wet areas (such as kitchens and bathrooms), walls, and basements, including waterproofing for floor tiles and even their repair.
Through the M3M service, you may protect your floor tiles from wear and tear caused by unwanted moisture or water leaks. As most people say, it is much better to be prepared for these kinds of scenarios. That is why M3M is committed to delivering quality service for its clients and exceeding their expectations when it comes to its business operations.
If you want to learn more about waterproofing and related topics. You are welcome to read our articles. You can also request or contact us for an on-site consultation. We’re looking forward to assisting you.