Use and Care Manual

When properly installed and maintained, cement tiles can be enjoyed for many years. Please be sure to familiarize yourself and the
installer with these instructions prior to starting the job. You and your installer are responsible for ensuring proper installation and
sealing of the tiles. If you have any questions, contact [e-mail] before moving forward.
CEMENT TILE
RECOMMENDED INSTALLATION
PRODUCTS & TOOLS
RECOMMENDED ADHESIVES
A high quality, medium-bed mortar is recommended. White mortar
is commonly recommended. Avoid using setting materials from
different production batches and check for bag-to-bag color
consistency. Cement tiles are not intended for installation methods
employing large quantities of water.
1. ARDEX X 5™ Flexible Tile and Stone Mortar
2. LATICRETE® 4-XLT
3. BOSTIK Single Flex
RECOMMENDED SEALERS
If a cement tile box is marked with a “pre-sealed” or “sealed” label,
the tiles do not need to be sealed prior to installation, only post
grouting. If there is no label, sealant must be applied both prior to
installation and post-grouting.
1. Miracle Sealants 511 Porous Plus- recommended for pre-installation
and post-grouting.
2. Drytreat STAIN-PROOF - recommended only for post-grouting.
a. This sealer is specifically for stain proofing. It is a solvent
base and does not enhance the color of the tiles.
3. Drytreat Intensifia - recommended only for post-grouting.
a. This sealer is specifically for enhancing color, it is not a
solvent although it does provide stain proofing.
RECOMMENDED GROUTS
We advise against using dark colored grout with light-colored tiles
and vice versa. Grout can stain the tiles and be difficult to remove
so be sure the grout matches the color of the cement tile as closely
as possible.
RECOMMENDED EDGE PROTECTION
This edge treatment may be used in replacement of bullnose or trim.
1. Schluter 11/16" edge treatment
RECOMMENDED WET SAW CUTTING BLADES
1. Alpha 10" Porcelana Blade #PT101A+-Continuous Rim
(TLSPT10A); or
2. BCE 10" Supreme Granite/Porcelain Blade-Continuous Rim (BCEDB10POR)
PREPARATION AND INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS
STORAGE
Do not allow the boxes to get wet! Store the material in a dry area.
Moisture or dampness can cause staining, fading, or effervescence
causing a white powdery effect on the surface of the tile. If
installing cement tiles inside, allow the tiles to season in their final
environment prior to installation.
CUTTING
Be sure not to damage the finished surface or corners of the tile.
Use a sharp diamond blade in conjunction with water to avoid
chipping of edges. Do not push the tiles through; let them move
naturally through the blade. Use recommended cutting tools
referenced above.
APPLICATION
These encaustic cement tiles may be installed in many different
applications. They are not recommended for pools/spas or exterior
Commercial floors.
SUBSTRATE
Pursuant to the TCNA, for tile installations, special attention should
be given to substrate stability, rigidity and preparation. Substrates
should be sufficiently flat to allow uniform coverage and avoid
excessive mortar thickness. Clean the surface well to remove all
dirt and residue and remediate all cracks or unleveled areas in the
substrate to ensure it is smooth and flat prior to installation. Install
over a cured concrete surface or suitable sub-floor like Hardibacker
or Ditra. Wall installation on drywall is acceptable when installed
with appropriate non-sag setting materials.
INSTALLATION
Please see the latest edition of the TCNA Handbook for further instruction.
1. Prior to installation and any cutting, inspect your order
carefully. Cement tile is subject to color and tonal variations
and it is strongly recommended to blend tiles from different
boxes to achieve a uniform effect.
2. Clean the tiles prior to sealing. Only use a pH neutral cleaner;
do not use any acids or alkalines to clean the tiles. Ensure the
tiles are thoroughly dry prior to sealing.
INSTALLATION,
CARE &
MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS