2 answers
Benjamin
Student
Eagle Lake, ME
9
Questions
Asked
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What would you say is the most important part of Tile/marble setting?
other then the obvious issues example: exact measurements, good placement...ect.
#tile/marble #carpentry #mistakes
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2 answers
Rich Speedy
Install countertops and tile
1
Answer
Reno, Nevada
Updated
Rich’s Answer
I’ve been at job sites where the lack knowledge of different natural stone types caused the installation to completely fail. For example, serpentine marbles set with traditional water mixed Mortars will cause the stone to warp severely enough that the bond will be broken resulting in failure of the installation as well as ruining of the material. The correct way to install that type of stone is with either coating the backsides with epoxy and sand letting that dry prior to a water mixed mortar or setting the stone in a straight Epoxy mortar. At one particular luxury hotel job in downtown Los Angeles I literallly watched as approximately $5000 in green marble (a serpentine marble) curled and fell off the wall because obviously the installers did not know the characteristics of that particular marble. That’s my best answer, knowledge of different material characteristics
Nick Manning
tile
5
Answers
Reno, Nevada
Updated
Nick’s Answer
Depends on what you are installing. Countertop's, islands and floors don't need much preparation compared to walls and ceilings. Also depends on what adhesive is being used and what type of stone you are using too.
For example, 3x6 tile on a shower wall is time consuming to install verses 12x12, larger is faster and more room to manipulate. But one thing in common they have is if that wall isn't level the joints wont be even. Joints being where one wall meets the next wall. So, if the wall isn't level you'll have a curve. So prep work is the most important part rite from the get go.
A few other key point I would like to add about importance of stone work are listed below from experience and taught knowledge.
-Safety: Don't stab yourself with a box cutter, wear safety glass's when cutting, fear power tools(you will respect them more), wear mask when needed, knee pad's and kneeling pads are your friend long term, good rubber gloves are a hand reptile saver. Muriatic acid cleans thinset well(extreme warning when using, see labels on bottle).
-Sticking something to a wall: Wiping it with a damp sponge(helps it stick).
-Clean: Tools, will last longer and work better if treated well.
-What works: There are many tools that do many different jobs but there are tools that work for an unintended purpose. Research and learn tips and tricks you can use because there are many. Most of the time if your stuck the web can help.
Overall try your best and never stop learning. This type of work can be hard but rewarding. Be a pro for your clients!
For example, 3x6 tile on a shower wall is time consuming to install verses 12x12, larger is faster and more room to manipulate. But one thing in common they have is if that wall isn't level the joints wont be even. Joints being where one wall meets the next wall. So, if the wall isn't level you'll have a curve. So prep work is the most important part rite from the get go.
A few other key point I would like to add about importance of stone work are listed below from experience and taught knowledge.
-Safety: Don't stab yourself with a box cutter, wear safety glass's when cutting, fear power tools(you will respect them more), wear mask when needed, knee pad's and kneeling pads are your friend long term, good rubber gloves are a hand reptile saver. Muriatic acid cleans thinset well(extreme warning when using, see labels on bottle).
-Sticking something to a wall: Wiping it with a damp sponge(helps it stick).
-Clean: Tools, will last longer and work better if treated well.
-What works: There are many tools that do many different jobs but there are tools that work for an unintended purpose. Research and learn tips and tricks you can use because there are many. Most of the time if your stuck the web can help.
Overall try your best and never stop learning. This type of work can be hard but rewarding. Be a pro for your clients!