TOOLS
The proper choice of tools and implements is very important: angle grinder machine or water jet cutting table with diamond blades, notched trowel, spirit level, and white rubber mallet, rubber trowel for grouting, cross-spacers for joints and mixing vessels for adhesive preparation.

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 involve the use of a primer.

ADHESIVE
The adhesive type must be chosen in relation to the material absorption and the substrate properties. Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The manufacturer's literature will explain if the adhesive product is suitable for interiors and/or exteriors, as well as walls and floors. Most 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. To make sure there is 100% coverage, you can tap the stones into the adhesive with a rubber mallet.

GROUTING
The grouting process consists of filling the space between pieces, better known as joints. The installation joints must be clean and free of bonding Products, traces of dirt and grime. This way, adherence of grout will be improved and more effective.
Grout may not be necessary depending on the method of installation and the type of stone you are using. If using a tile with a rectified edge, a non-sanded grout will be suitable, as typically those grout joints will be 1/8“ or smaller. You also have the option of creating a butt-joint installation. It is important to wait the interval recommended by the adhesive manufacturer before grouting to minimize dirt ingress between the tiles and avoid the opportunity for dislodging of the tiles.
The grouting material should be applied 24/48 hours after the covering application, in order to help the evaporation of the water used to prepare the bonding mixture. This way is possible to avoid moisture stains that might end up causing efflorescence pathologies.

SEALANTS
To prevent possible staining and discoloration we recommend sealing all stone tiles BEFORE installation and AFTER grouting. Due to the porosity of this product, 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.
You can change the look and colour of the stones depending on the sealer you select ranging from colour enhancement, to different levels of gloss finishes, or just leaving them natural. Whenever using sealants and acids, please ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s recommended method of application.

PROTECTION
In case of laying polished or honed floor coverings, it is advisable to protect the surface until the building work is over. This is mainly not to damage the material and make the cleaning easier.

CARE & CLEANING
Stone must be regularly cleaned and maintained to extend the life and beauty of the installation. The stones can be cleaned with a neutral mild detergent, or a PH neutral cleaner specifically for natural stones. All natural stones are porous and have different levels of water absorption and therefore staining may occur in different degrees if the stone 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.