 Ceramic tile must be installed over the proper backing or "substrate" (i.e., sub-floor, sub-wall, subcountertop or existing hard surface). Discuss the specific type of substrate winth your professional installer. 
Pre-Installation Procedures
Installation Time TableThe following guide is an approximate time table for completion of ceramic tile job:
50 square feet and under
51-175 sq. ft 176-350 sq. ft 351-500 sq.ft each additional 200 sq. ft
one day
two days three days four days add one day FLOORSSuitable Subfloors: All subfloors that are structurally sound and free excessive movement are suitable for tile installation. They include:
Unsuitable Subfloors: These are not suitable because they tend to flex, expand, contract or wrap. Any excessive movement will loosen the tile and break the grout. These sub-floors must be replaced or covered with a suitable underlayment prior to ceramic installation:
WALLS
Dye Lots. Ceramic tile is a kiln-fires, natural clay products and is subject to shade variation. rim pieces can be off-shade from field tile. Shading in ceramic tile is a normal condition. Crazing is the appearance of fine surface lines on glazed tile. Crazing is caused by aging, heating and cooling. Since tile is a natural procedd and part of the beauty of ceramic tile. 
Scratching. Most tile used in countertops and vanities is glazed, matte or gloss and resist scratching. If you have a high-gloss finish be aware that the surface is subject to scratching. Bright glaze scratches easier than matte. Primary or deep colors have a tendency to scratch more easily. Some scratching may occur during shipment. Use care while using metal cookware/tools/ The surface of tile is fired to high-density and can be scratched by metal, leaving marks on the tile surface. This marking will be particular concern when choosing light colors of tile.
Grount. Normal setting will cause some cracking of the grount, particularly in corners and edges. This condition should be taken care of promptly. Caulking and grout may be purchased from The Floor Club to repair initial cracks and to insure proper maintenance. Efflorescence (whitening of the grout) is cause by the setting of soluble salts in gray cement-based materials or from grouting materials floating to the top. Clean with the grout and tile cleaner and rinse well for several days after cleaning. Sealing. It is recommended that all grouts used in the installation of ceramic and marble be sealed. Since the grout must "cure" for a minimum of 30 days before sealing, it is usually the responsibility of the homeowner to seal the grout. 
The Arizona Floor Club
15575 North 83rd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Phone:
FAX: e-mail:
The Arizona Floor Club © 2008 |
Privacy Policy
 
|
