Installation Guide

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ADHESIVE
Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. We do not recommend one brand of
adhesive over another. Please check with your local tile supply store for alternative and
comparable products. The manufacturer's literature will explain if the adhesive product is suitable
for interiors and/or exteriors, as well as walls and floors. Most thinset mortars (multi purpose and
polymer modified thinsets) are adequate for installing stone tile. A cement-based adhesive is
generally suitable on masonry substrates where no movement is anticipated. Where slight
movement could occur through thermal or pedestrian loads, a modified cement adhesive should
be used as a minimum. A 1/4” – 1/8” notch trowel is recommended for most applications.
It is very important to make sure the tiles fit tightly together. The use of a rubber mallet may be
required to gently tap the tiles into place. When using these tiles in a wet application, it is
recommended that you lightly score the back of the tiles diagonally in a grid pattern with a
masonry grinder. Stay ¼” away from the perimeter edge of the tile when doing this. In addition,
it will be necessary to back-butter the product with the flat edge of a trowel. This process will
ensure that the individual cubes will adhere to the surface and guarantee longevity of the product
in a wet application.
GROUTING
Grouting is not necessary for Cubist tiles. If small cracks or seams exist in between the cubes, a
non-sanded grout similar in color to the stone can be used to fill the gaps.
SEALANTS
To bring your application to its full potential, we suggest sealing. There are various products
available on the market, however, we recommend contacting your nearest tile supplier for the
most appropriate sealer for your application. You can change the look and color of the stones
depending on the sealer you select, ranging from color enhancement, to different levels of gloss
finishes, or just leaving them natural. Whenever using sealants and acids, please ensure that you
follow the manufacturer’s recommended method of application
CARE & CLEANING
SOLISTONE Cubist mosaics must be regularly cleaned and maintained to extend the life and
beauty of the tile. The stones can be cleaned with a neutral mild detergent. Consequently, any
spills should be cleaned quickly to lessen the degree of the stain. The porosity or water
absorption in these products varies and therefore staining will occur in different degrees if the
stone is unsealed. Do not use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads, steel wool or sandpaper.