How To Install Ceramic Tiles

• Before beginning installation, blend tile from all boxes in your shipment, lay out the tile in the installation area and ensure any variation is distributed evenly.

• Prior to installation, clean any dust from shipping and residue with a pH neutral cleaner and soft cloth.

• The underlayment must be uniform and in good condition, a high-quality medium-bed thin set is sufficient to set ceramic tiles. Cement board or backer board are the most standard substrates. Waterproof underlayments are necessary for wet areas.

• Evenly apply the thin set mixture to the underlayment using a trowel. Wet the back of each tile with a sponge before applying the adhesive to the back of each tile, making sure to apply the mixture in the same direction in order to prevent air pockets from forming.

• Lay ceramic tile in accordance with the drying time required for the thin set used, pressing the tiles into place. Ensure the tiles are perfectly flat during installation.

• Place in small sections, no larger than 2’x2’, at a time and immediately wipe off any residual thin set from the surface of the tiles. Grout can be incredibly difficult to remove without damaging the tiles if left too long.

• Consistent open joints should be allowed for desired spacing - 3/16” recommended and the minimum is 1⁄8”.

• All saw cuts must be made with a water-cooled tile saw or snap tile cutter.

• After the tiles have been laid, allow the thin set at least 48 hours to cure before sealing and grouting.

• All matte finish ceramic tiles must be use a sealer as a grout release to avoid grout haze and staining. Use a pH neutral cleaner before sealing. Use of acidic cleaners will damage the tiles and should be avoided.

• For matte finish ceramics only: After laying the tile and prior to grouting, apply 511 Porous Plus penetrating sealer in a thin layer over the surface of the tile, wiping off any excess sealer before it dries. Do not over-seal, thick or excessive application of sealant can dry unevenly and result in an undesirable waxy film on the surface of the tiles. Allow sealer to cure, typically 24-48 hours; always follow the sealant manufacturer’s application instructions.

• Using only a high-quality sanded grout, fill in the gaps between the tiles with a rubber grout float. Grout in small areas, no larger than 2’x2’, at a time. DO NOT grout the entire installation at once, as the tiles can stain from excess grout that is extremely difficult to remove later. Instead, grout small areas and immediately remove any excess grout with a trowel before moving onto the next area.

• Allow the grout to cure, usually 48 hours.

• Clean the tiles with pH neutral detergent, removing any residual mortar or debris. Never leave spills, drips, footprints, or any other marks on the tiles prior to sealing.

• ALWAYS cover the tiles with durable paperboard during and after installation to prevent damage and/or staining of the tiles until construction is complete.

TRIM

• Ceramic tiles can be mitered on the edge or clients can use finished edge pieces such as Schluter strips

ONGOING MAINTENANCE

CLEANING