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 floors, a fall to the drainage point of no less than two inches.

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 can be done with a wet saw.

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 ceramic 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” notched trowel is recommended for most applications.

GROUTING

Select the type of grout you use based on the width of the desired joint. 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. Any grout line 1/8 or smaller you can use a non-sanded grout.

SEALANTS

It is not necessary to seal the ceramic tile. However, we do recommend sealing the grout after installation. 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

SOLI Hoshi tiles must be regularly cleaned and maintained to extend the life and beauty of the tile. The tile can be cleaned with a neutral mild detergent. Consequently, any spills should be cleaned quickly to lessen the degree of the stain. Do not use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads, steel wool or sandpaper.