We have purchased a house with a woodburner. We'd like to tile with brickslips over the existing surface, which has an almost powdery texture it. what would be the best adhesive to use
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @M Rogers. It's fantastic to have you join us and many thanks for your question on tiling.
Typically, https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/home/leaving?allowTrusted=1&target=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bunnings.com.au%2Fdavco-5l-ultraprime-primer_p6658124%3Fsrsltid%3DAfmBOoo3IOnftyEquT_Ip0HHFMBYcvK7hv-Kyr7iBWI2Yx995_UlIoc1 is used over porous substrates such as rough finished concrete, or https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/home/leaving?allowTrusted=1&target=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bunnings.com.au%2Fdavco-5l-primex-surface-primer_p6650246 over non-porous substrates such as compressed fibre cement or trowel finished concrete.
https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/home/leaving?allowTrusted=1&target=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bunnings.com.au%2Fdavco-20kg-smp-evo-tile-adhesive_p6650266 would then be a suitable adhesive. However, I am not aware of what substrate you have there. The powdery nature does not help the situation, as the primer and adhesive are only as good as the substrate they are applied over. A powdery surface indicates the substrate is not well-bonded, which could cause issues. It would be worth doing a test section to determine if this substrate is suitable for tiling over. Alternatively, if it is not and the tile pull away, you could remove it and clad the wall with compressed cement sheeting. It's important that you follow all of the heater manufacturer's guidance and local regulations regarding setbacks and use appropriate non-combustible materials surrounding the fireplace. If in doubt, I recommend enlisting the services of a professional tiler for the install.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
