Installation & Assembly

Installation
of Floor Tiles
Page 1 of 4
Always consult a tile installation
professional prior to installing
the tile.
Always read the warnings, warranty
and instructions provided thoroughly
and contact the manufacturer(s)
prior to application if you require
clarification regarding proper
handling & use.
The use of safety glasses,
respirators, dust masks, gloves
and knee pads is strongly
recommended when handling
any materials that contain
chemicals.
The steps and materials used for
installing tile floor are different
than installing wall tiles. Ensure
you select the right materials and
are following the right processes
for your installation project.
Preparing to install floor tile
Before tile installation, please ensure enough cartons for the
entire project are obtained of same caliber, shade, and tonality.
Tile cutting, wastage as well as installation patterns will
necessitate having extra tiles available for the job. It is also
recommended to save extra tiles from the same lot in case
any future replacements are required. Work with a professional
to calculate how much tile will be required and to plan
or perform the installation.
All tiles should be inspected for any visual defects prior
to installation. For best results in any tile project, tiles must
be blended from various cartons to achieve an aesthetically
consistent blend to avoid forming any unwanted patterns
in your new floor.
Prepare the substrate
The substrate must be properly prepared before laying any tile.
It is not recommended to install tile directly onto a wood
subfloor. No matter how firm the subfloor; the plywood will
expand and contract at a different rate as the tile, causing
cracks to develop in the grout lines or tiles over time. On a plywood
subfloor, you need either a layer of cement backer board or an
underlayment membrane between the subfloor and tile for the
thin-set adhesive to achieve a good bond.
When applying cement backer board over a plywood subfloor,
be sure to adhere the two surfaces together with thin-set adhesive;
and screw the cement backer board down with special screws
that countersink into the backer board.
Ensure a suitable subfloor / substrate that meets the geographical
building code requirements for your region. Make sure the subfloor is
uniform, level, the right thickness and in good condition. Clear the
substrate of any dirt, debris or contaminants that can prevent
adhesion. It is recommended to consult a professional installer
to determine if there are any special requirements for your project.

Summary of content (4 pages)