RECOMMENDED INSTALLATION

SOLI Aztec mosaics can be used in an extensive range of environments. Applications include foyers, bathrooms, fountains, water features, pools, kitchens, feature walls and entertainment areas. This product is only suitable for vertical surfaces and should not be installed in areas exposed to open flame.

SUBSTRATES

All substrates should be firmly fixed, flat, clean, dry and free of contaminants such as dust, oil, paint, sealers etc. to ensure proper adhesion. Painted surfaces must be scuffed or sanded for the product and adhesive to bond correctly. Wet areas need special attention and require appropriate substrates, e.g. concrete, cement boards (compressed sheet), and/or treated plywood. The use of reinforced waterproof membranes is suggested.

WATERPROOF MEMBRANES

Waterproof membranes prevent leakage of water through to the sub-floor framing and/or habitable spaces below. Particular attention must be paid to: carrying the membrane up the wall, outside shower boxes, installation of bond breakers, and sealing around penetrations. It is strongly recommended that membrane systems be used in all wet areas. Some systems may involve the use of a primer.

CUTTING

Cuts to the individual stone pieces can be done with a saw blade suitable for cutting stone tiles. The mesh-backing can be easily trimmed with scissors or a utility knife.

ADHESIVE

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. SOLI does not recommend one brand of adhesive over another. Please check with your local tile supply store for alternative and comparable products. The adhesive 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 the Aztec mosaics.

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 1/8” notch trowel is recommended for most applications.

GROUTING

Grout should be suitable for joints up to 3/4″ in width and designed for external or internal conditions whichever may be the case. Sanded grout is generally recommended for any grout joint larger than 1/8”. Grouts are ordinarily a water mix but where some flexibility may be needed, a latex additive or similar product should be used. It is important to wait the interval recommended by the adhesive manufacturer before grouting to minimize dirt ingress between the individual stone pieces. The recommended grout joint for the Aztec mosaic is 1/16”.

SEALANTS

While the surface of the Aztec mosaics are glazed, the product does contain natural stone, which will require sealer in order to protect the tile, as well as the grout joints. Enhancer sealer will not have an affect on the color of the stone. Therefore, a simple penetrating sealer is suitable for most applications. There are various products available on the market, however, we recommend contacting your nearest tile supplier for the most appropriate sealer for your application.

CARE & CLEANING

Aztec mosaics must be regularly cleaned and maintained to extend their life and beauty. Most dirt and stains can be cleaned with a mild detergent and soft cloth or sponge. Do not use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads, steel wool or sandpaper.