Overview
- Clay tiles show variation in both color and design; 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.
- If properly installed, clay tiles will result in a vibrant, 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, such as Mapei FlexColor ™ CQ
- Water-cooled tile saw
- 1/2” Grout trowel
- 1/16” to 1/8” thick tile spacer
Care and Inspection
1. Handle cases of tile with care. Keep all boxes upright. Prior to installation, store material in a dry area. Moisture or dampness can damage the tiles.
2. Inspect your order carefully. Grow House Grow will not be responsible for material that has been cut or installed. Throughout the installation process and handling of the tile, be careful not to damage the finished surface, edges, and corners.
3. As a natural material, clay tile is subject to color and shade variation. It is recommended to mix tiles from the different cases as you create your layout.
4. This tile is a clay-based product and may have residue on the surface. Before beginning installation, it is highly recommended to clean all tiles with a cloth to remove any residue from the 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 and can vary from piece to piece.
Installation
1. 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.
2. 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 floor to dry completely.
3. 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.
4. 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. Take care not to remove too much grout from the surface joints. Allow 24 hours for grout to dry.
5. Following grout application, clean the tile surface thoroughly with a damp cloth. Clean the surface until all grout residue has been removed.
6. For continued maintenance, it’s recommended to wash your tiles with soap and water once a week.
Final Thoughts
- Please be sure to read and follow all instructions for products used during installation.
- For safety purposes, always work in a well-ventilated area.
- During a renovation, cover the floor with a breathable foil for best results. Avoid the use of plastic, cardboard, or other non-breathable materials.
- Avoid cleaning agents that contain acids.