RECOMMENDED INSTALLATION

Formed from rapid cooling lava on Earth’s surface, SOLI Basalt tiles bring style and texture to any application. Suggested applications include interior and exterior feature walls, water features, fireplaces, and entertainment areas.

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, and in the case of installation where drainage is required (i.e., shower floor pans or spas), there should be a slope-to-drain ratio of at least 1/2 inch per foot. The use of metal lathing is recommended for larger heavier stones to ensure maximum support of the structure.

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 involve the use of a primer.

CUTTING

Basalt can be cut with a wet saw or with a hand grinder using a diamond or masonry blade.

ADHESIVE

Follow the adhesive 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 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 (multipurpose and polymer modified thinsets) are adequate for installing natural stone.

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 bonding agent is always recommended for larger heavier stones.It is very important that each stone is embedded in the adhesive. To make sure there is 100% coverage you can tap the stones into the adhesive with a rubber mallet.

GROUTING

We do not recommend grouting due to the butt-joint installation method for basalt tiles.

SEALANTS

To prevent possible staining and discoloration, we recommend sealing all basalt tiles both BEFORE and AFTER installation. A range of looks, colors and gloss can be achieved through the use of various sealers. Whenever using sealants and acids, please ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s recommended method of application.

BEFORE applying sealant, wash the tiles and let dry for 24–48 hours. This will ensure that moisture is not present under the surface of the tile. Failure to allow tiles to dry completely before application will result in permanent discolorations. We recommend testing all sealants on a single tile before application. 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

The Basalt Tile Collection can be cleaned with a neutral mild detergent, or a PH neutral cleaner specifically for natural stones. All natural stones are porous and have different levels of water absorption and therefore staining may occur in different degrees if the stone is left unsealed. Consequently, any spills should be cleaned quickly to lessen the degree of the stain. For tiles in high traffic areas keep surfaces clean from abrasive dirt. Do not use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads, steel wool or sandpaper. Do not let soap, bleach or other cleaning solutions set on the surface.