Installation & Care Guide
HOW TO INSTALL CERAMIC TILES
A detailed installation & care guide
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Please read this guide in full before installation. Relative ceramic tiles are handcrafted using natural materials. Each piece is unique in shape, shade, and texture. These natural irregularities are a key feature of the product and should not be treated as defects. This guide is designed to embrace the artisanal nature of the material.
REVIEW YOUR ORDER
- Check all boxes upon delivery.
- Expect and embrace variation in caliber, tone, and flatness.
- Blend tiles from multiple boxes during layout.
- Order 10-15% extra for breakage, adjustments, and pattern matching.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
FOR INSTALLATION
- Porcelain-compatible adhesive.
- Trowel (appropriate size).
- Optional: back buttering for uneven tiles.
- Rubber mallet.
- Hand-operated tile cutter or diamond wet saw.
- Clean water and sponges.
- No spacers (natural joint formation)
FOR CLEANING & FINISHING
- pH-neutral porcelain-safe tile cleaner.
- Fila FOB Xtreme — ideal for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or splash zones.
- Soft cloths and mop.
- Clean water bucket.
TILES INSTALLATION — STEP BY STEP
DRY LAYOUT
Arrange and rotate tiles to naturally vary joints and tones.
ADHESIVE APPLICATION
Use a high-quality adhesive for porcelain tiles.
Apply to substrate with a trowel.
For slightly uneven tiles, apply adhesive on the back of the tile as well (back buttering).
TILE PLACEMENT
Do not use spacers. Let the tiles form organic joints.
Gently press tiles with a rubber mallet for contact and alignment.
CUTTING TILES
Use a manual tile cutter or wetjet diamond saw.
Always cut with care due to tile density.
CURING TIME
Allow adhesive to fully dry (typically 24–48 hours) before proceeding to grout.
GROUTING
Use a grout compatible with Ceramic tiles.
Grout carefully around naturally formed joints.
Clean excess grout immediately with water and sponge.
CLEANING & CARE
- Use only pH-neutral cleaners.
- Avoid acidic products that may harm the surface.
- Sealing is not required for normal installations.
- For extra protection in wet or high-use areas, apply Fila FOB Xtreme to resist stains while keeping the natural look of the tile.
- Do not over-apply. Follow product instructions for best results.
- Clean regularly with soft mop or cloth and clean water.
INSTALLATION SAFETY
- Always wear a dust mask and safety glasses while unpacking, cutting, or installing tiles.
- Use gloves when handling grout, mortar, or sealers to protect your skin.
- If you need to do a lot of cutting, try to do it outside or in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing in dust.
- After finishing your work, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water — especially before eating or drinking.