Inspect and keep material in a dry area until the time of installation.
Make sure that the existing surface is clean, dry, structurally sound and free from any bond breaking or bond inhibiting materials. Bond inhibiting materials can include, but are not limited to sealers, waxes, oils, curing compounds, dirt, grease, form releases, paint, old adhesives, laitance from over-troweling, etc. If these materials are present on the concrete, they must be completely removed prior to any direct bond installations of tile.
Procedure to install tiles over cement backer board: Follow the cement backer board manufacturer’s instructions for the installation of the cement backer board. Once the cement board is installed, fastened and taped properly, use the following procedure. Dampen the board with a damp sponge to clean the surface and to slow down the porosity rate of the cement backer board.
There are several products that you can use to install the tiles. Most thin set products are good. For the best results however, Mosaic House recommends to use a LATICRETE latex fortified thin set mortar. Contact the manufacturer for the appropriate mortar (ie: indoor, outdoor, pool, etc. . .) Adhesive should be applied to the back of tile to ensure total surface bonding.
Use a water saw to cut the tile. Cut in a straight line and move the tile gently forward against the blade. Mosaic House recommends that the tile be installed by professional installers. Dip tile in water before installation to slow down the porosity rate of the tile.
All unglazed tile MUST be sealed with a penetrating sealer BEFORE GROUTING.
Maintain your tile with regular cleaning using a neutral cleaner.
How to seal Mosaic House cement and unglazed terracotta tile
Clean tiles thoroughly with a neutral soap. Soft disk pads are recommended (white pads). Rinse well. Wipe the floor with vacuum or a cloth. Let the floor dry for 48 hours (until the tile is completely dry).
IMPORTANT - Tile must be sealed before grouting
Make sure that the tile is COMPLETELY dry. This allows the sealant to completely penetrate the pores of the cement tile
DO NOT DILUTE. It is ready for use.
Brush the sealant onto the floor evenly and generously. Use a large paintbrush, sponge or cloth. Wait approximately 4 to 5 minutes and then wipe the sealer from the tile using a dry cloth. For floor applications, wait 24 hours before walking on the surface. Once the tile is sealed and dry, test the sealant by applying a drop of water onto the tile. The water should bead on the surface. If the water does not bead and seeps into the tile, this indicates that another coat of sealant will be needed to ensure complete protection.
It is recommended to seal the tiles once more after grouting. Please clean the tile and make sure that all excess sealer and grout is wiped off before adding the second coat. Repeat the instructions above.
Contact Mosaic House with any questions regarding the sealing process
Clean regularly using a non-acidic/abrasive cleaner
It is recommended to reseal the area every 1-2 years depending on wear. The area needs to be resealed when water droplets no longer bead on the surface