RECOMMENDED INSTALLATION

Highly compacted layers of quartz, clay and silica combine to create the characteristic striations of sandstone, making each tile unique. SOLI Sandstone tiles are available in six colors and a variety of finishes for formal and casual surfaces.

Important: While sandstone is suitable for exterior applications, special care regarding the use of waterproof membranes, grouting and sealing is required. As these installation recommendations speak to the basic method for installing sandstone, SOLI recommends contacting a professional installer to discuss best practices for your specific project.

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 may involve the use of a primer.

CUTTING

All cuts to SOLI Sandstone tiles can be made with a wet saw using a diamond blade.

ADHESIVE

SOLI explicitly recommends setting Sandstone tiles with an epoxy-based thinset in order to minimize the potential moisture buildup caused by water-based products. Suitable product recommendations include, but are not exclusive to:

Laticrete LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive

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 natural stones. 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 recommended for larger heavier stones. It is very important that each stone is embedded in the adhesive.

GROUTING

Before grouting, it is necessary to seal the stones. If you are doing a butt-joint installation, grout may not be necessary. Grout should be designed for external or internal conditions whichever may be the case. If you are leaving a grout joint 1/8“or smaller, non-sanded grout is recommended.

As Sandstone is extremely porous, installers should consider using an epoxy-based grout or combining dry grout with a latex admixture to minimize water absorption from the tiles. Options include, but are not limited to the following:

LATICRETE PermaColor™ Grout

Be sure to test the grout on a small area of the installation prior to moving forward with full coverage.

SEALANTS

To prevent possible staining and discoloration we recommend sealing all sandstone tiles BEFORE installation, and if using grout, AFTER the grouting process. Do not seal the back of the tile. As this material is extremely porous, multiple applications may be necessary.

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

SOLI Sandstone tiles must be regularly cleaned and maintained to extend the life and beauty of the tile. The tiles can be cleaned with a neutral mild detergent, or a PH neutral cleaner. Staining may occur if the tile 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.