Encaustic Floor Tiling Installation Guide
The Encaustic tile installation can be a bit more complicated than installing other types of tiles, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a relatively simple process.
INDEX
Encaustic Tile Floor - Installation Guide
1. Prepare the surface:
Before installing the Encaustic tiles, the surface on which they will be installed must be cleaned and leveled.
The surface should be checked for cracks or holes.
Uneven areas should be filled and leveled with a self-leveling compound to ensure a smooth, even surface for the tiles.
2. Measure and plan:
Measure the area where the tiles will be installed and plan your layout.
It is important to take into account the drawing of the Encaustic tile mosaics and plan it in a way that complements the design by making the most of the tile pattern.
Some designs are made up of 4 or more tiles to make a drawing. You should try not to break the pattern halfway.
In case of installing an effect like an Encaustic tile rug, be sure to carefully measure the distance that will be from the wall to each part of the mosaic or border so that the rug is centered or in the desired place.
3. Apply the adhesive:
Apply a bed of tile adhesive on the surface with a notched trowel.
The adhesives can be cement, cement-glue, special adhesives and even silicone depending on the surface.
Be sure to distribute the adhesive evenly over the surface.
Not leaving a uniform layer of adhesive can cause breakage and small cracks in the encaustic mosaic floor.
4. Lay the tiles:
Place the slabs over the adhesive, starting in one corner of the room.
Carefully align the mosaics with design you have planned, making sure the pattern of the tiles lines up correctly.
Many tilers prefer to start at the door or entrance of the room to ensure that that part looks straight in rooms that are out of square.
It is possible to cut the tiles with an angle grinder (radial) or other specific tools.
It is not necessary to leave an expansion joint.
5. Level the slab:
These Encaustic tiles are handmade so thickness may vary.
It is here where we play with the pressure helping us with the hand or a level, so that the surface is smooth.
6. Grout:
Once the authentic cement tile mosaichas been installed. the gaps between them will be filled with grout.
The grout is applied with a rubber trowel, and it is important to work the grout into the spaces to ensure it is evenly distributed.
Grouting is done one square meter of mosaic at a time and the excess is cleaned before starting on the next square meter.
In case you want to use a colored grout, the Encaustic tiles must be covered by applying vinyl tape to the edges of the surface of each of the tiles.
The Encaustic tiles they are very porous and waiting too long can cause the grout to stick and stain the tile.
Use a damp sponge to clean any excess grout from the surface of the authentic cement tile mosaic.
7. Seal the tiles:
After everything is absolutely dry and clean, the tiles must be sealed to protect them from moisture and stains.
You should apply a water repellent sealant (filler) to the mosaic with a brush or roller and allow to dry for several hours before using the area or apply an optional second coat to ensure complete waterproofing.
The encaustic cement tiles are relatively heavy and more porous than Ceramic tiles, so it is important to use a suitable sealant specifically for encaustic mosaic floor after installation.
OTHER NOTES:
WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TREATING TILES PRIOR TO INSTALLATION.
Encaustic tiles- Installation guide: NOTICES.
Although many guides propose the opposite, in Crafted Tiles we do not recommend sealing encaustic tiles before installation.
The slab must dry and allow moisture from the adhesive to breathe before being sealed. Otherwise, moisture will be trapped, staining the surface.
On the other hand, many companies recommend treating the slab before grouting.
We can leave this as optional, since although it facilitates the application of the grout- the sealant product that slips through the sides between the Encaustic tiles will prevent the grout from sticking to that part of the tile.
This will cause the grout to flake off more in that part but also prevent it from doing its waterproofing function.
It is always good to follow the manufacturer's recommendations when installing cement tiles, you may get in touch at any time with Crafted Tiles to make sure that the installation process be a success.
If you are not comfortable with the process, it is best to hire an installer for professional encaustic tiles.
