Tile Installation Recommendations - Sandstone Natural Stone Tile

Sediment and style go hand in hand with the SOLISTONE Sandstone Tile Collection. Highly compacted layers of quartz, clay and silica combine to create the characteristic striations of sandstone, making each tile unique. Available in four colors and a variety of finishes for formal and casual surfaces.

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 floors, a fall to the drainage point of no less than two inches. 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 SOLISTONE Sandstone tiles can be made with a wet saw using a diamond blade.

Adhesive

Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. We do not recommend one brand of adhesive over another. Please check with your local tile supply store for alternative and comparable products.

SOLISTONE explicitly recommends setting Sandstone tiles with an epoxy-based thinset in order to minimize the potential moisture buildup caused by water-based products. The 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.

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 and Cleaning

SOLISTONE 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.

Download these recommendations and care guide in PDF format

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