2018/2019
All you need to know about
NATURAL
STONE
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Important information about Natural Stone
Installation
Shade Variation Natural stone products can have high variation in colour, veining, hue, surface texture and overall appearance. Please ensure the end user checks all materials thoroughly prior to installation. The installer and the end user are responsible for determining if the shade and mix is acceptable. Use of the product constitutes full acceptance. No claims will be recognised once the product is installed. Display samples are indictive only.
Blending is Essential To ensure an even blend of colour, mix all pieces for the job from multiple cartons / crates prior to installation. This will ensure as even a variation as possible and allow you to separate any pieces you may find best suited for cuts or less prominent areas. Natural stone has surface flaws, holes and colour variation.
A test run, or “dry lay” is required prior to actual installation. It is recommended that the end user inspect and approve the dry lay prior to installation as no claims will be recognised after installation.
Surface Preparation The surface to be tiled should be even, smooth and structurally sound. Concrete slabs and adequately fixed cement sheet are generally suitable substrates. Refer to your adhesive supplier for more detailed information and recommendations for natural stone adhesive. Follow their installation guidelines. Surface preparation may be different than commonly practiced for ceramic and porcelain tile installation. For optimum results the use of crack suppression products is recommended under larger stone pieces.
Adhesives and Grout Depending on the stone colour, white or grey premium modified thin set adhesive suitable for natural stone is recommended to avoid colour bleeding and absorption. Certain stone requires epoxy setting systems such as dark green marble. Refer to your adhesives company for their recommended adhesive and grout. Use non-sanded grout to avoid scratching. Dark coloured grout can stain natural stone and should be avoided.
Movement Joints Movement joints must be incorporated in the tile design. Movement joints should be every 4.5-5m in a grid pattern, over existing movement joints, at all sheet joints, where tiling abuts restraining surfaces e.g. perimeter walls, columns, bench tops and at all change of plane.
Sealing
Floor Surfaces
Other Surfaces
Natural stone is NOT pre-sealed. It is recommended to seal all natural stone with a good quality penetrating sealer. We suggest sealing prior to and after grouting. Please refer to Sealer supplier for more detailed instructions.
Frequently mop interior floors using clean un-treated dust mop. Most damage to natural stone is caused by sand, dirt and grit. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help minimise abrasive grit. Ensure the underside of the mat or rug is a non-slip surface. Do not use vacuum cleaners that are worn where metal or plastic attachments or wheels may scratch the surface.
Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of a ph neutral cleaner, Use a clean rag mop on floors and a soft cloth for other surfaces for the best result. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. DO NOT USE products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone. Rinse surface thoroughly after washing with soap and dry with a cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. DO NOT USE scouring pads or creams as they contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
Cleaning and Maintenance Avoid using acidic, alkaline or abrasive cleaners which may permanently scratch or damage the product. DO NOT use the following; Acidic Tub & Tile Cleaners, Acidic toilet cleaners, Ammonia, Powered Abrasive Cleaners, Soft Paste Cleaners, Vinegar, Window Cleaners or Abrasive Cleaning Pads and Citric Cleaners.
This is intended as a general guide only and is not comprehensive. Some installations require different or more detailed specifications. Please consult a professional installer, architect, or the technical department of your adhesive company for specific advice that is applicable to your circumstances.
Cleaning and Sealing Natural Stone
We insist that all natural stone is sealed to protect and extend the life of the stone. Sealing stone gives it the absolute best protection against stains and dirt and makes cleaning much easier. When sealing, the surface must be clean and dry. Never seal outdoors if rain is predicted within 12 hours. Never seal in extreme heat or windy conditions. It’s a great idea to always test the sealer in a corner before applying to large areas.
Miracle 511 Impregnator Solvent Based 19L (5G) 553513 3.8L (1G) 553514 946mL (1Q) 553515 473mL (1P) 553516
Miracle Porous Plus 19L (5G) 553517 3.8L (1G) 553518 946mL (1Q) 553519 473mL (1P) 553520
Beaumonts stock a range of top quality penetrating sealers. Please ask our friendly staff who will recommend the right sealer for the stone you have chosen. Sealing lasts up to 15 years.
tile.com.au
Miracle Tile and Stone Cleaner is a concentrated cleaner developed specifically for regular cleaning of all grouts, ceramic & porcelain tile, marble, granite, limestone, slate and travertine. Strong enough for most difficult stains yet gentle enough
Miracle Tile and Stone Cleaner 3.8L (1G) 553531 946mL (1Q) 553532
for daily use. Due to variations, sample testing is always recommended to assure maximum performance and suitability for intended use. Please follow manufacturers directions.