Cement

----- Read this guide, IN FULL, prior to beginning any installation of cement tile -----

To ensure proper installation based on unique project and/or site conditions, clients are responsible for hiring a skilled installer that has experience in installing and sealing cement tiles. Zia Tile is not responsible for installation, ongoing care, or issues arising after receipt and installation of product. If client’s installer deviates from the instructions or recommendations below, this may result in costly and undesirable outcomes.

REVIEWING YOUR ORDER

• Please inspect your order thoroughly, upon receipt. Zia Tile cannot be held responsible for tiles that have already been installed.
• Each piece of cement tile is made by hand, and subtle variations in color, shape and thickness are to be expected. Irregular edges and minor crazing are normal and to be expected.
• To account for cuts, pattern, inherent variation, and potential breakage in transit, it is strongly recommended that all orders include a minimum of 15% overage to avoid costly add-on shipping and schedule delays.

BEFORE BEGINNING YOUR INSTALLATION

• Due to the inherent color variation of cement tile, it is very important to blend the tiles from all boxes in your order. You should then lay out all tiles in the installation area to ensure any variation is evenly distributed before beginning your installation.
• Grout color is an important design decision - almost as important as the tile color itself. For a traditional look, explore lighter neutral color Mapei Flexcolor CQ grouts. For a more modern aesthetic, grout color can be matched as closely as possible to the color of the tile. Visit our website or Instagram to view hundreds of installation examples to decide what grout color is preferred.

INSTALLATION

REQUIRED MATERIAL

For placing the tiles:

• Sponge
• Bucket
• 1/16” tile spacers
• High quality medium-bed thin set mortar
• Trowel
• Mapei Flexcolor CQ, neutral colored grout – avoid spreading dark or contrasting grout over the surface of cement tiles
• Grout float
• Grout bag – if using a contrasting grout color
• Water-cooled tile saw with diamond edge blade

For cleaning and sealing cement tiles:

• pH neutral cleaner such as Miracle Sealants Heavy Duty Cleaner (Acid Substitute)
• Paint roller, paint tray, sponge and water bucket - Lint-free cotton cloth
• For interior applications - 511 Porous Plus Sealer and Fila Matte Finish Protective Wax
• For exterior applications - 511 Porous Plus Sealer

LAYING TILES

• If cuts are required for your installation, all saw cuts must be made with a water-cooled tile saw.

FOR FLOOR INSTALLATIONS

• If the subfloor is even and in good condition, a high quality medium-bed thin set is sufficient to set the tiles. Please make sure the subfloor has completely cured (usually a minimum of 30 days) to prevent efflorescence spots from depositing on the surface of the tiles as moisture evaporates through them. Uncured or unsettled sub-surfaces can cause cracks to form in the tile as the sub-surface deforms, so always ensure the sub- surface has cured properly before installing cement tile. Use of an uncoupling membrane (such as DITRA) may also be advised.

FOR WALL INSTALLATIONS

• Only install cement tile on stable, even surfaces such as cement backer board. In dry areas (i.e. kitchen backsplash), cement tile may be installed directly to drywall. Never apply tile directly to a painted surface.

 FOR COMMERCIAL AND/OR WET AREAS:

• If installing on a flooring surface in a wet or commercial area, slip resistance can be increased by increasing grout joint size and/or applying an anti-slip product after installation is complete. Always consult with your licensed installer on slip specific questions prior to installation and note that cement tile has a DCOF rating > 1. See product spec sheet for additional information.
• Evenly apply the thin set mixture to the install surface using a trowel. Wet the back of each tile with a sponge before applying thin set to the back of each tile, making sure to apply the mixture in the same direction in order to prevent air pockets from forming.
• For a more level installation, use more or less thin set on the back of the tiles to account for depth variation. Tiles should be leveled as they are placed.
• Using only the palm of your hand, press the tiles into place. Do not use a rubber hammer or mallet as that can create small cracks that will grow over time. Ensure the tiles are perfectly flat during installation.
• Place in small sections, no larger than 2’x2’, at a time using 1/16” tile spacers to separate the tiles.
• Immediately wipe off any residual thin set from the surface of the tiles. Thin set can be incredibly difficult to remove without damaging the tiles if left too long.
• After the tiles have been laid, allow the thin set at least 48 hours to cure before sealing and grouting.

PRE-GROUT SEALING

• Cement tiles must be sealed on-site. Use a pH neutral cleaner before sealing; products made to clean natural stone are usually suitable. Use of acidic cleaners will damage the tiles and should be avoided.
• After your thin set has cured, your tiles have been cleaned and dried and prior to grouting, apply 511 Porous Plus sealer in thin layers until the tiles become fully saturated, wiping off any excess sealer before it dries. Do not over-seal as thick or excessive application of sealant can dry unevenly and result in an undesirable waxy film on the surface of the tiles. Allow sealer to cure, typically 24-48 hours; always follow the sealant manufacturer’s application instructions.
• Do not proceed to grouting unless your sealer is fully cured!

GROUTING

• Using MAPEI FLEXCOLOR CQ GROUT, fill in the gaps between the tiles with a rubber grout float. Grout in small areas, no larger than 2’x2’, at a time. DO NOT grout the entire floor at once, as the tiles can stain from excess grout that is extremely difficult to remove later. Instead, grout small areas and immediately wipe away the excess grout as you go. Contrasting grout can stain or leave a grout haze and should be avoided unless hand grouting or using a grout bag.
• Allow the grout to fully cure, usually 48 hours.

TOP COAT SEALER

• Completely clean and dry the tiles with pH neutral detergent, removing any residual mortar or debris. Never leave spills, drips, footprints, or any other marks on the tiles prior to sealing.

FOR INTERIOR INSTALLATIONS

• Apply Fila Matte Finish Protective Wax in thin layers until the tiles are fully coated, wiping off any excess sealer before it dries. Do not over-seal as thick or excessive application of sealant can dry unevenly and result in an undesirable waxy film on the surface of the tiles. Allow sealer to cure, typically 1-2 days before using the space. Always follow the sealant manufacturer’s application instructions.

FOR OUTDOOR INSTALLATIONS

• Apply 511 Porous Plus sealer in thin layers until the tiles are fully coated, wiping off any excess sealer before it dries. Do not over-seal as thick or excessive application of sealant can dry unevenly and result in an undesirable waxy film on the surface of the tiles. Allow sealer to cure, typically 24-48 hours before using the space. Always follow the sealant manufacturer’s application instructions. DO NOT use Fila Matte Finish Protective Wax in outdoor applications as UV rays can cause discoloration over time.
• ALWAYS cover the tiles with durable paperboard during and after installation to prevent damage and/or staining of the tiles until construction is complete.

TRIM

• We recommend installing cement from floor to ceiling or bringing drywall flush with the finished surface of your tile to eliminate the need for trim.
• If you have an exposed edge with your design, we recommend mitering your tile. Your experienced installer should be familiar with cutting the edges at a 45-degree angle to create a corner out of two tiles. This will mimic a finished trim piece and can easily be done on site to get the finished look without ordering custom trim.
• If you do require trim, we recommend Schluter strips, which can be found at www.schluter.com.

ONGOING MAINTENANCE

Over time, cement tile wears like a natural stone product, which is part of the appeal of this old-world tile. Clients should expect natural wear, fine lines on the tile surface (also known as crazing) and patina to occur to the finish over time.

CLEANING

• Vacuum or sweep tile regularly to remove abrasive material that can scratch the surface.
• Promptly clean up any spills, especially oil and grease. Un-cleaned spills can cause stains.
• Floors and walls can be wiped or mopped with warm, clean water and a pH neutral cleaner.
• Cement tiles should be cleaned using pH neutral cleaners ONLY. Use of acidic cleaners will stain the tiles. For regular cleaning, we recommend Miracle Sealants pH Neutral Tile and Stone Cleaner. For heavier stains, we recommend Miracle Sealants Heavy Duty Cleaner (Acid Substitute).

RE-SEALING

• Cement tile should be re-sealed at least every 1-2 years, or as often as needed depending on traffic and wear. For areas exposed to moisture, you may need to re-seal more often. Always re-seal in accordance with sealant manufacturer’s instructions.

INSTALLATION SAFETY

• Installers should always wear a protective face covering (e.g., dust mask) and eye protection when unpacking, cutting and installing Zia Tile products as well as working with the mortar, sealants, grout and other materials associated with the tile installation process in accordance with California Prop 65. WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm -- www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. If extensive cutting is required during installation, Zia Tile recommends this work be done outside or in a well-ventilated area. Finally, always be sure to wash your hands well with soap and water after working with tiles and before eating.
  

VARIATION SCALE