Sika tells PBM about its range of jointing solutions, and also discusses the benefits its new Leeds Distribution Centre will bring to the sector.
A merchant’s customers know what makes a job great: clean lines, long-lasting results and no call-backs — however, even the best-laid slabs can fail if the jointing compound doesn’t match the surface.
Whether a project involves laying natural stone, porcelain or block paving, using the wrong jointing compound can mean cracks, stains, movement or weed growth. However, Sika explains that it engineers professional-grade jointing compounds that are tailored to each surface type because in paving, one product doesn’t fit all.
Indeed, every surface performs differently under pressure, moisture and time. That’s why matching the jointing compound to the paving type is very important.
For example, porous stone demands a permeable joint to prevent water pooling and frost damage whilst non-porous porcelain needs an impermeable seal to stop water ingress and edge damage. Block paving, meanwhile, requires strength and flexibility to withstand constant movement and traffic.
If corners are cut here, the whole installation can fail.
Accordingly, Sika says it has a range that accommodates all product types. Natural stone, for example, adds character but its porous nature requires a drainage-friendly joint that won’t stain or crack. Here, Sika FastFix All Weather is described as the go-to solution; one that is easy to brush in, rain-resistant and colour-matched for a premium finish.
Porcelain, meanwhile, is dense, low-absorption and can be unforgiving with poor prep. It needs an impermeable joint to protect from frost and maintain clean lines and here, Sika FlowFix is said to deliver flowable, high-strength grouting that “locks tight and looks sharp… for porcelain perfection.”
When it comes to block paving, driveways and paths demand flexible strength to handle shifting and loads. Sika Setting Sand is recommended by the supplier as a sweep-in, set-fast solution that’s easy to use and resistant to weeds and movement.
Minimise Risk. Maximise Results.
When your customers are working to a schedule and budget, mistakes aren’t an option. Helping them choose the right jointing compound will speed up installation, reduce maintenance issues, protect their reputation and will ensure satisfied customers across the board.
Click here for more information on Sika Jointing Compounds.
Over the summer, Sika also officially opened its new 280,000 sq ft Leeds Distribution Centre.
Strategically positioned just a short distance from the supplier’s existing manufacturing site in the city, the hub consolidates stock from across the UK and Europe into a single, modern location in a move designed to “enhance service speed, strengthen supply chain resilience and provide increased operational capacity in response to growing customer demand.”
Tom Forsyth, General Manager at Sika UK, said: “The opening of our new Leeds Distribution Centre represents a major milestone in our UK growth strategy. By consolidating operations into a single, high-performing hub, we are not only increasing efficiency but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering a market-leading service to customers across the UK.”
Darren Bunting, Business Unit Manager for UK Distribution, added: “This facility has been designed to meet the evolving need of our customers, with enhanced capacity, integrated systems, and the agility to respond faster and more effectively than ever before. It is a proud moment for our distribution team and a clear statement of Sika’s dedication to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.”
With cutting-edge technology, integrated systems and “sustainable design at its core,” the new centre supports Sika’s goal to consolidate deliveries. By the end of 2025, the aim is “one order, one delivery, and one invoice” for catalogue products, helping reduce complexity for customers.
