Installation & Care Guide
HOW TO INSTALL STONE TILES
A detailed installation & care guide
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Please read this guide in full before installation. Relative recycled stone tiles are a technical product that requires professional handling. Always hire a qualified tile installer with experience in stone or engineered surfaces. Improper installation may result in performance issues or damage.
REVIEW YOUR ORDER
- Inspect all tiles immediately upon delivery.
- Blend tiles from all boxes to distribute shade and pattern variation.
- We recommend ordering 10–15% overage for cuts, waste, and future repairs.
- Store all materials in a dry, covered location to prevent efflorescence or damage before installation.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
FOR INSTALLATION
- Wet sponge & buckets
- High-quality tile adhesive:
- Standard sizes: C2 TE S1
- Large tiles (≥50.5 cm sides): C2 FT S1
- Trowels: - 10 mm notched for standard sizes - 15 mm half-moon notched for large tiles (with double spreading)
- Wet saw with diamond blade
- Straight edge and level
- Expansion joint profile material
FOR CLEANING & FINISHING
- Neutral pH cleaner (e.g. FILA CLEANALL)
- FILA PS87 – for stubborn residues and deep cleaning
- White Scotch-Brite pad – for gentle scrubbing
- FILA FOB Xtreme – penetrating sealer for stain and water protection Finishing wax – choose a surface-appropriate wax (e.g. FILA PARQUET WAX)
- Fleece wax spreader or soft brush – for smooth and even application
TILES INSTALLATION — STEP BY STEP
DRY LAYOUT
Arrange tiles dry to preview layout and blend variation.
ADHESIVE APPLICATION
a. Use recommended adhesive based on tile size.
b. Apply to substrate using appropriate notched trowel.
c. For large tiles, use double spreading (back buttering + surface).
d. Maintain uniform adhesive thickness.
TILE PLACEMENT
a. Press tiles firmly into adhesive.
b. Use a level to ensure flatness.
c. Avoid walking on tiles during curing.
CUTTING TILES
a. Use a wet-cut diamond saw for precise cuts.
b. Always follow safety precautions when cutting.
CURING TIME
Allow adhesive to fully dry per manufacturer’s guidance before grouting (usually 24–48 hours depending on product and climate).
SUBSTRATE PREPARATION
Ensure the screed is completely dry, level, and stable.
Surface must be clean, free of dust, oils, and any bondinhibiting substances.
Compatible with heated screeds.
Install expansion joints every 3–4 linear meters or per project engineer's advice.
GROUTING
Use Piu line cementitious grout, suitable for narrow joints.
Work in small sections (about ¼ m²) using a rubber float in all directions.
Immediately emulsify with a wet sponge; change water frequently.
Do not delay cleaning during grouting — grout haze becomes difficult to remove.
POST-INSTALLATION CLEANING
- If grouting is done correctly, no additional cleaning may be needed.
- For light residue: use white scotch Brite pad + warm water.
- For stubborn marks: use FILA CLEANALL (does not strip surface treatment).
- For heavy or colored stains: use FILA PS87 (will remove surface treatment — reapplication needed).
- Avoid acidic cleaners or harsh degreasers.
SURFACE FINISHING (WAXING & SEALING)
- Wait 48 hours after installation and grouting.
- Before applying Ceramatt finishing wax, tiles can be sealed with Fila FOB Xtreme for added stain resistance.
- Apply only after cleaning and full drying.
- Fila FOB Xtreme provides natural-look protection without altering the surface appearance.
- Apply Finish wax in a thin, even coat using a fleece applicator or brush.
- If certain areas appear darker or absorb more moisture, reapply a second coat.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
- Use only pH-neutral cleaners (e.g. FILA CLEANALL).
- Avoid harsh, acidic, or abrasive products.
- Spot clean spills promptly.
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.