Cement Tile Installation Guide

 

Cement tile installation

This document is designed as a guidance note for certified trade professionals and the ultimate responsibility for laying these tiles remains with the tiler. We cannot accept any responsibility for any issues arising from the incorrect placement of these tiles as a result of this guidance.

The installation of cement tiles is a simple and quick process. The tiles need to be placed on a perfectly levelled and clean surface, therefore prepare the concrete slab before and let it dry completely before placing the cement tiles. Never lay onto fresh concrete. It is important the surface where they are placed is dry, otherwise the moisture will evaporate through the tiles, leading to composition of saltpetre deposits in the form of white stains.

  • Leaving a space between the end of the floor and the wall is recommended, just enough so the skirting covers this small space. Finish with a good quality silicone sealer after the final sealant and not with grout. This will allow for expansion and contraction.

  • The tiles must be kept clean while fixing so as not to stain them, they are porous before the sealant is applied. Spread tile adhesive on the back of the tile and the floor using a rake comb with fine tooth spacing (double spread also known as “buttering”) in order to improve adhesion and preventing any air pockets that could result in the tile unsticking in the future.

  • The tiles should be placed one by one without using a hammer or any other tool. Use palm of the hand to press flat and even. There should be a minimal gap between the tiles of 1-2mm for good alignment of any pattern. If using over underfloor heating gap should be 2mm+

  • When the installation is finished and the adhesive is dry, clean the surface with water to remove thin layer of pigment powder that covers the tiles.

    Sealing 1st coat

  • Before grouting apply a water repellent to the tiles like MN Stain Stop by Lithofin so that grout residue does not stain the tile. The tiles must be completely clean and dry from installation first. (At least 24 hrs from having been set )

  • Protect the tiles from foot traffic whilst the sealant is drying (minimum 24 hours).
  • Use a spatula to fill spaces with the grout, do not spread grout over the whole tile, just the joints, do not fill the gaps above tile height, remove any excess immediately with a damp cloth. Use white or grey grout only to avoid staining.

 

Sealing 2nd coat

Once the grout has dried the tiles need 2nd sealing with MN Stain Stop ( By Lithofin) tiles should be clean and dry before sealing.

OPTIONAL 3rd COAT of SEALANT

  • If you have been using Lithofin Stainstop MN as the impregnator/ sealant for this tile, we also recommend the use of Lithofin Multiseal as a final top coat. This sealant will give the tile a slight satin sheen but it will greatly assist in keeping the tiles clean for regular maintenance. Apply as per manufacturer’s guidelines.

  • NB this product is not suitable for wet rooms or outdoor areas and surface colour may deepen when using this product.

  • Shake the tin well and apply 2-3 thin even coats with a suitable applicator ensuring no excess is left on the surface.

  • Leave to dry for a minimum of 4 hours. This sealant will cure fully in 48 hours.

  • Please contact the distributor of Lithofin products to get up to date instructions and products as these may change.

  • There are many other tile products that can be used, Lithofin has been recommended, but please research what is available to you.

  • Clean and maintain the tiles with Lithofin easy care.

    We will not accept any liability after the tiles are laid. Laying the tiles constitutes acceptance of the goods.