Step 1: Laying the tiles

It is always a good idea to put the tiles in place before fixing them to make sure that the pattern will be installed accurately. Once this is done, you may begin to fix the tiles.  

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• Make sure the surface to which the tiles will be fixed is flat and clean.

• If using tiling glue, please follow the manufacturer’s instruction. If using mortar place a thick layer on the surface under each tile. Please note that mortar forms a thicker layer under the tiles than glue.

• When placing the tiles on the surface do not hammer, use your hands to pressure the tile down to place. You may then use a soft mallet to align.

• Leave 0.5 - 1mm space between the tiles.  

• Once all the tiles are all placed, clean the surface with a damp cloth taking care not to move the tiles out of alignment in the process

 

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Step 2: Grouting and Polishing

This should only be done after the glue or mortar fixing the tiles has set

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For unpolished tiles:

• Apply the grout to fill the space between the tiles (we recommend using sand-free grout).

• Wipe off any excess grout immediately after application, otherwise some staining may occur

• Once the grout has set, you can start polishing the surface.​

• Polishing the surface is a multi-step process requiring the use of proper equipment, hire a professional for top quality results, below are the basic steps to polishing the floor surface: Level out the surface: Use a 30 or 40 - grit diamond resin pad (this is usually passed only once over the tiles)

  • Level out the surface: Use a 30 or 40 - grit diamond resin pad (this is usually passed only once over the les)

  • Polish for shine and to minimize absorption: Start with a 80-grit diamond resin pad (this is usually passed only

    once over the tiles), Increase gradually the grit (100, 200, 400, 800, 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, 8000, 10000) until you achieve the desired shine. The higher the grit the shinier and more crystalized (impermeable) the tile will be.

     

For pre-polished tiles:

Apply the grout only between the tiles and immediately remove any excess grout. Do not spread the grout on the entire surface.

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Step 3: Sealing

Like natural stones and marble, encaustic cement tiles are porous, therefore it is important to correctly seal the tiles to reduce the natural absorption, minimize stains and facilitate maintenance.
You can use a penetrating water based sealer (eg. Purigo-5S) or an impregnating emulsion based sealer (eg. Sikagard-703W)

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Precaution: We recommend testing the sealer on one le before applying it on the whole surface.

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Precautions:

Do not use any acids, harsh or alkaline detergents to clean the tiles, only use PH neutral cleaners diluted in water. Be careful while handling and installing the tiles, not to chip the edges and corners or damage the surface.
If the tiles are not directly installed, store them in a dry, clean place to avoid any staining and moisture absorption.

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With proper installation and care the tiles will last for many years and age beautifully.

BlattChaya cannot be held responsible for mishandled les or errors related to installation, polishing or maintenance. We are available to answer any question you might have regarding the tiles.
You can contact us by mail : info@blattchaya.com or by phone: +961 1 695 222 / 333.