The Re-Tile system introduces a new way of thinking about tiles: not as single-use materials, but as valuable products designed for reuse and recycling. Such an innovative approach naturally raises many practical questions from our partners, customers, and stakeholders.
In the following FAQ, we address the most common questions surrounding the Re-Tile system, from design and installation, to dismantling, logistics and clean return flows. This provides clarity on how the system works today, what challenges we are tackling, and how together we can build a circular future for tiles.
What is the Re-Tile System and how does it work?
The Re-Tile System is a circular ceramic tiling solution developed by Mosa and ARDEX. It combines Mosa tiles with ARDEX CircuTec® binder technology, allowing tiles to be reused or recycled at the end of their lifecycle. This ensures materials remain in circulation instead of becoming waste.
How is the Re-Tile System different from conventional tile installation methods?
Unlike conventional systems, the Re-Tile System is designed for dismantling: tiles and adhesive can be detached from each other and from the building structure, enabling safe reuse and recycling. Conventional methods often mix materials that hamper dismantling and make safe reuse and recycling very difficult or even impossible.
What are the main sustainability benefits of the Re-Tile System?
The system reduces waste, preserves natural resources, and enables transparent reporting of environmental impact.
How does the Re-Tile System contribute to CO₂ reduction and circularity?
By reusing tiles and recycling materials back into production, the system avoids virgin raw material extraction and reduces emissions related to new production. CircuTec® products also have a significantly lower CO2 footprint than traditional installation products.
Who is responsible if there is a complaint or issue?
We stand by the quality of our products. Each party involved in the Re-Tile System is responsible for their own product and committed to make the combination a success . If an issue arises, it will be addressed promptly and fairly by the party responsible, ensuring a smooth and worry-free resolution for our customers.
Can the Re-Tile System be used with all Mosa tiles?
The Re-Tile System is available for Mosa’s Cradle to Cradle Certified® tiles, which covers over 99% of the Mosa collection . Depending on the product group and application, our Sales team is ready to advise you on the best fit.
Why is it necessary to use ARDEX CircuTec® binder technology specifically?
Only ARDEX CircuTec® binder technology are fully compatible and guarantee clean separation, safe recycling, and C2C compliance.
Can I combine the system with other adhesives or installation products?
No. Using other materials hinder dismantling and make safe reuse and recycling very difficult or even impossible. System products such as waterproofing underneath the CircuTec layer or typical grouting products are still required.
Are there any design limitations when using the Re-Tile System?
The Re-Tile System covers a broad range of applications and works with all designs of Mosa’s Cradle to Cradle Certified® tiles. The range of application covers dry and wet interior areas in normal-load internal living areas or similar up to tile formats of 0,36 m2.
What documentation is needed during the design and installation phase?
You need to record where and how (invoices, photo’s etc.) the tiles are installed, and ensure no additional materials that hinder recycling are used.
How can tiles be dismantled and reused without losing performance?
When installed with ARDEX CircuTec® binder technology, Mosa tiles can be removed depending on the tile, the substrate and the method of deconstruction. For more details, please refer to the deconstruction instructions. After a quality check and cleaning, they can be reinstalled with the same durability and performance as new tiles. This ensures full reusability and supports circular building practices.
What conditions must be met to ensure tiles are accepted for return?
Only Mosa Cradle to Cradle Certified® tiles installed with ARDEX CircuTec® binder technology and free from contaminants are accepted. Tiles must be dismantled carefully and sorted on-site to avoid damage. If tiles are contaminated with other materials (such as other adhesives, sealants, or construction waste), the return may be rejected, or additional processing cost may apply.
What happens if tiles are damaged during dismantling?
Damaged Mosa Cradle to Cradle Certified® tiles should be set aside. They cannot be reused, but they can be recycled into new raw materials.
How does the take-back system work in practice?
Customers submit a request through the Mosa website. Upon approval, Mosa coordinates the return and processing in collaboration with the requester.
Who is responsible for transport when tiles are returned?
Transport is organized in consultation with Mosa.
Is there a cost for returning tiles to Mosa?
A handling or transport fee applies, depending on location, volume, and condition of the return.
Can customers outside of Europe participate in the Re-Tile take-back system?
Currently, the system is rolled out in Netherlands and Germany. Expansion to other regions will be investigated.
How do you guarantee that returned tiles are safe and high-quality?
Circular demolition partners ensure Mosa Cradle to Cradle Certified® tiles are removed intact and sorted for reuse or recycling. Mosa provides guidelines and support.
What happens to tiles that cannot be reused?
The Mosa Cradle to Cradle Certified® tiles that are damaged are recycled either into new Mosa tiles or as raw materials for other industries.
Are there any process changes required to use the Re-Tile System?
No, Mosa tiles can be installed in the usual way with ARDEX CircuTec® products. For technical installation details please refer to the technical data sheets. There is no special grout required. For optimal deconstruction, a cementitious grout should be used. CircuTec products do not comply with EN 12004 and do not require a CE marking.
