Clay Imports Clay Tile Installation Roadmap Instructions
- June 11, 2024
- Clay Imports
Table of Contents
Clay Imports Clay Tile Installation Roadmap
Product Information
The product is a clay tile that does not require sealing but can benefit from the use of a conventional grout release for efficient grout application. However, it is recommended to do a grout test on a loose piece of tile before full grout application. The unglazed back of the tile is susceptible to absorbing moisture, which can damage the tile if excessive. The product is intentionally designed with chips and glaze flaking, which is a feature. Before installation, it is crucial to inspect all tiles upon receipt of the order. Ensure that the work surface is protected, and the cutting tool is appropriate for cutting this material. The surface must also be well-prepared for tile installation. The product is compatible with high-grade, flexible thinset and mastic tile adhesive. It is highly recommended to clean all tiles with a clean cloth to remove any residue and get a clean tile surface before installation. Due to the handmade nature of the product, slight variations in size, shade, irregular edges, and the appearance of fine cracks are inherent and can vary from piece to piece.
Product Usage Instructions
- Glue the tiles on a flat, dry surface with a high-quality, flexible tile adhesive using a trowel with recesses of 10-20 mm (1/2 – 3/4 in). Use 2 mm (1/16in) tile spacers for best results. Remove excess glue from between tiles quickly. Glue will require at least 24 hours to dry properly.
- Clean the tile surface with water after bonding using a sponge and/or cloth. Wring the sponge every time while cleaning the floor. Avoid getting tiles too wet as this may affect later steps. Allow the area to dry completely.
- The tiles should be thoroughly cleaned before grouting. After the tiles are clean and dry, apply 1 to 2 coats of grout release to the tile surface.
- Apply the grout to the tiles, ensuring it fills all gaps. Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge or cloth. Allow the grout to dry completely.
- Clean the tile surface with a damp sponge or cloth to remove any remaining grout residue. Allow the tile surface to dry completely.
Following these instructions will ensure proper installation and maintenance of the clay tile product. Clay tiles show variation in color and design aplication; these tiles will not be identical piece to piece. This is a result of the handmade process and the nature of glaze firing. Mixing tiles from different boxes during setting is suggested to produce a beautiful and natural appearance. Details that can be seen in a closeup, will be subtle when installation is completed. If properly installed, CLAY tiles will result in a beautiful,durable, easy to maintain surface that can be enjoyed for many years.
PLEASE NOTE that though this tile does not require sealing, using a conventional “grout release” will increase the efficiency of grout application. It is always recommended to apply a grout test on a loose piece of tile prior to full grout application.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
- Flexible tile adhesive, suitable for natural stone
- Flexible grout, we recommend Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA
- Water-cooled tile saw
- 1/2” Grout trowel
- 1/16” to 1/8” thick tile spacers
CARE AND INSPECTION
- Inspect all tiles upon receipt of your order. Expect to find a few pieces of tile with chips and glaze flaking. This is an intentional feature of this product.
- Though this product works well in wet areas such as showers and backsplashes, prior to installation, the unglazed back of your tile is susceptible to absorbing moisture. Until you are ready to install, do not let your tile to get wet. Excessive moisture absorption can damage your tile.
- Do not leave the tile outdoors for long periods of time.
- Do not let the boxes of your tiles get wet.
- Store your tile in a dry area.
- Protect your work space. Setting materials can stain your walls and potentially harm your countertop or other surfaces near the installation area. Cover all areas that are susceptible to damage with a durable, protective construction covering.
- Prepare your grid. Based on your specific installation, determine how to best design your layout and draw a grid of the installation surface.
- Prepare your cutting tool. Test your cutting saw to ensure that you are using the right blade for cutting this material. We recommend using a wet saw with a high grade, continuous diamond blade. If you notice excessive chipping, upgrade your blade.
- Ensure that the surface you are installing over is well prepared for tile. The setting surface must be properly cleaned and dry. Do not install over excessive paint overspray, oily or polished concrete or unsecured surfaces.
- Prepare your adhesive. Depending on your specific installation and subsurface, you need to determine which type of adhesive to use. This product is compatible with high grade, flexible thinset and mastic tile adhesive.
- Clay tile is a clay-based product and may have residue on the surface. Before starting the installation, it is highly recommended to clean all tiles with a clean cloth to remove any residue and get a clean tile surface. Please be aware that our tile is a handmade product. Due to this process, slight variations in size, shade, irregular edges and the appearance of fine cracks are inherent to this product and can vary from piece to piece. Prior to installation, we advise a blending of the tiles to create a more aesthetic appearance.
GUIDELINES
- Glue the tiles on a flat, dry surface with a high quality, flexible tile adhesive. Use a trowel with recesses of 10-20 mm (1/2 – 3/4 in). Use 2 mm (1/16in) tile spacers for best results. Remove excess glue from between tiles quickly. Glue will require at least 24 hours to dry properly.
- Clean the tile surface with water after bonding using a sponge and / or cloth. Wring the sponge every time while cleaning the floor. Avoid getting tiles too wet as this may affect later steps. Allow the area to dry completely.
- The tiles should be thoroughly cleaned prior to grouting. After the tiles are clean and dry, apply 1 to 2 coats of grout release to the tile surface.
- Grout should be applied to the tile within 1 hour of applying grout release. Always apply grout to a loose sample tile prior to full application. Pigments from some grouts can penetrate the surface of tile and result in permanent staining. WE ADVISE AGAINST USING BLACK GROUT. Once you have confirmed that the grout is suitable, begin applying to the surface. Only apply small sections of no greater than 6 square feet at a time. Grout should be cleaned from the surface with a damp sponge. Grout should not dry on the tile surface for longer than 10 minutes. For best results, wipe away excess grout at an angle to the tile lines. Continue cleaning until only a mild residue remains on the surface. Caution not to remove too much grout from the surface joints. Allow 24 hour for grout to dry.
- Following grout application, clean the tile surface thoroughly with a damp cloth. Clean the surface until all grout residue has been removed.
- Maintain your tiles periodically, recommended once a week, with soap and water.
Disclaimer : Since the installation of tile greatly determines the integrity of the project and the tile itself, Clay imports does not warranty this product and is not responsible for dissatisfaction of material following installation. Please inspect all tile upon receipt and notify us immediately if you have any quality concerns. This guide is meant to serve as a general resource. Because each project is unique, consult your tile installer before installing your tile.
FINAL THOUGHTS
- Please be sure to read products usage instructions on all materials used for your installation.
- For safety purposes, Clay Imports always recommends that you wear safety gear when installing tile. Gloves, safety glasses and close toed shoes can prevent injury.
- Mixing tiles from different boxes leads to the best results.
- Clean your tile occasionally with soap or a household, non-acidic cleaner.
- If you are uncertain about what steps to take for your installation, feel free to contact Clay Imports where we can provide our expertise on next steps required. We also suggest consulting your tile installer as each project is unique.
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