Installation Guide

SPLASHBACK TILE
Pearl Tile Installation Guide
SUBSTRATE
Tile must be installed over a suitable substrate to insure a proper installation. Glass tile
should be installed over a clean, sound, and flat surface, free of contaminates including
curing compounds. Substrate should be free of cracks. If used in a wet area you must
waterproof. See manufacturer’s recommendation on a membrane for crack and water
protection that is compatible with the setting material you are using. Pearl is reflective
therefore any inconsistencies in the substrate will result in a poor installation. For pools and
fountains we recommend installing a mortar bed according to TCA P601-98. EXPANSION
AND CONTROL JOINTS PER TCA EJ171-05 Expansion joints should be installed at all
“changes in plane” in the tile work and where tile abuts restraining surfaces, therefore
silicone caulking sealant must be installed in all corner joints in place of grout.
INSTALLATION
 To avoid affecting the color of Pearl tile, White modified thin-set is recommended for all installations.
 Apply thin-set using a trowel as recommended by the manufacturer.
 Apply as much adhesive as can be covered within 10-15 minutes.
 Grout joint should be a minimum of 1/16” and not butt set.
 The trowel size you can use is a 9" Trowel - 1/16" square notch.
GROUTING
 Grout joints should be packed full and free of voids and pits.
 Clean excess grout as the work progresses before it has hardens completely.
 Acids should never be used for cleaning grout haze.
 Use a damp sponge for the final cleaning and to smooth out the grout joints.
 It is recommended to use non-sanded grout.
 It is recommended to use grout release, then grout the tile, then use a sealant to the tile such as our
CUTTING
The recommended cutting method is to use a wet saw with a diamond blade that is
specifically for cutting Pearl. Edges can be sanded smooth after cutting.