Installation Guide
Tile Installation Guide
GENERAL GUIDELINES TO LAYING TILES IN INTERIORS
1. It is essential that prior to laying the tiles, that the substrate is completely dry and free of dirt, grease, oil or other
contaminants. Before setting the tiles in place, check the quality, tone and thickness, making sure the tile is free
from any visible defect. Mix pieces from various boxes to obtain the best random pattern. Handle the pieces
carefully to avoid smudging or chipping along the edges of the tiles.
2. Do not wet or submerge the pieces in water before installation. Traditional mortar is not recommended. Tiles must
be installed in accordance with local building codes and ANSI standards. Use of a latex-modified thinset is
recommended, applied in accordance with the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions.
3. It is recommended that 1/16” (1.5mm) grout joint should be used for laying the tile.
4. When laying out plank and rectangular tiles, do not use patterns that overlap more than 15% of the longest side of
the piece. Please see the graphic in this document.
5. If additional construction needs to be competed after tile installation, the tile must be protected in order to avoid
surface damage.
6. During installation and grouting, remove any extra thinset or grout before it dries dry and hardens. Before using a
chemical cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do a patch test on a piece of the tile that is not visible.
EXTERIOR APPLICATIONS
Unless specifically stated otherwise, tile recommended for floor or wall applications refers to interior applications only.
Any exterior application of for tile should be conducted in accordance with local codes and ANSI standards.
LAYING RECTIFIED TILES
Although the guidelines for laying rectified tile are generally the same as for other types of tile. Rectified material is
particularly delicate, especially around the edges. It is therefore very important that these guidelines are followed.
Particular attention is paid to the following:
1. It is very important that the substrate is flat. The
surface upon which the tiles are to be placed
should levelled, and any void in the substrate
filled.
2. Handle the material carefully to avoid chipping of
the glaze along the edges of
the tiles.
3. Do not submerge the tiles in water prior to
installation.
4. Always use a minimum grout joint of 1/16”
(1.5mm).
5. Installations of rectangular tiles should not
overlap any more than 15% of the length of the
tile, (see the graphic).