Marble Tile floor installation by PRO tile installer/setter
Marble tile installation can be a stunning addition to any space. It's important to approach the installation process with care to ensure that the end result is not only beautiful, but also durable and long-lasting. In this blog, we will discuss the process of installing marble tile on a bed of mortar mix, starting from finding the highest point of the house with lasers to the final step of filling the small gaps with grout.
Step 1: Finding the highest point of the house
The first step in installing marble tile is to find the highest point of the house. This is important because it ensures that the floor is perfectly level everywhere in the house. One way to do this is by using a laser level. A laser level projects a level line across the room, and by measuring the distance from the line to the floor, you can determine which areas need to be raised or lowered to achieve a level surface. Once you have determined the high point, you can then begin to level the rest of the floor to match it.
Step 2: Installing an anti-fracture membrane
Before installing the marble tile, it is recommended to install an anti-fracture membrane. This is a thin layer of material that is placed between the subfloor and the tile. It helps to prevent cracks from forming in the tile by absorbing any movement that may occur in the subfloor. This is particularly important in areas that are prone to movement, such as near windows and doors. Applying a primer after a thorough clean up of the floor is a key to long lasting resilient installation.
Step 3: Applying thin set to the floor
The next step is to apply thin-set mortar to the floor using a notched trowel, again, making sure the floor is clean from dust and grease. Thin-set mortar is a specially formulated cement-based adhesive that is used to attach the marble tile to the floor. It's important to use the correct type of thin-set mortar for your particular application, as different types are designed for different types of tile and substrate.
Step 4: Blobbing the mortar mix
Once the thin-set mortar has been applied, it's time to apply the mortar mix. This is done by placing a blob of mortar mix on the floor where the tile will be installed. The purpose of the mortar mix is to provide a bed for the tile to rest on, as well as to help level the tile. It's important to use just the right amount of mortar mix, as too much will cause the tile next to the new tile to lift and too little will leave it unsupported.
Step 5: Applying thin-set to the back of the tile
Before placing the tile on the mortar mix, it's important to apply a layer of thin-set mortar to the back of the tile. This ensures that the tile is fully bonded to the floor and prevents air pockets from forming under the tile. Use the notched trowel to spread the thin-set mortar evenly over the back of the tile.
Step 6: Placing the tile
Once the tile has been back-buttered with thin-set mortar, it's time to place it on the bed of mortar mix. Carefully position the tile over the blob of mortar mix and gently tap it down with a rubber mallet. It's important to ensure that the tile is level and flush with the surrounding tiles.
Step 7: Filling gaps with non-sanded grout
Once all the tiles have been installed, it's time to fill the gaps between them with grout. Non-sanded grout is recommended for marble tile, as sanded grout can scratch the surface of the tile. Use a grout float to spread the grout over the tiles, making sure to fill all the gaps. Once the grout has set, wipe the surface of the tile clean with a damp sponge.
In conclusion, installing marble tile on a bed of mortar mix requires care and precision. By following the steps outlined in this blog,
Silica Dust Facts:
Silica is one of the most abundant naturally occurring minerals in the world.
1. Amorphous and crystalline are the two types of silica.
2. Dust produced by mechanical action on silica-containing materials is a known health hazard.
3. Quartz is the most common form of respirable crystalline silica. It is in numerous everyday products, including art clays and glazes, caulk, cleansers, cosmetics, paint, pet litter and talcum powder. When inhaled, dust particles settle deep in the lungs. This can contribute to elevated rates of lung cancer, particularly among individuals with consistent occupational or environmental exposure to silica dust.
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