Tile Today Issue 94 | August 2017

TILE TODAY 94

FULLY ENDORSED BY THE AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL

THE CASE FOR STONE-EFFECT TILES

COVERINGS USA SHOW 2017

BEAUMONT TILES LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE ITALIAN TILE COLLECTION TRENDS

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PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

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I N S TA L L AT I O N

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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94

contents

TILE TODAY TRENDS 10

The popularity of stone-effect porcelain tiles shows no signs of slowing down, especially for the local market. Digital ink jet technologies also have a role to play.

14

The Coverings trade show that was held in Orlando, Florida earlier this year should be seen as a more serious priority for Australian buyers, according to international correspondent Joe Simpson.

M AR K ETS 26

The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that ceramic tile imports peaked in the March quarter of 2017.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 29

Restaurant Augusta located in Göttingen, Germany underwent a major tile renovation of its 200sqm cellar vault.

TECHNICAL 32

Ceramic tile could be a useful solution when it comes to finding a suitably safe cladding for commercial building façades.

36

The appropriate tiling technique should be applied when tile fixers need to tile over difficult surfaces.

INSTALLATION 38

Installing tiles on steel, stainless steel or polyester surfaces requires epoxy adhesives.

R EGUL AR DE PAR TM E NTS 41

Featured Products

44

Industry News

READ ON THE GO: Scan code to view the latest FREE digital versions of the magazine on our website. Simply click on the front cover once you have scanned the code.

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FO REWOR D

MEET THE TEAM

Since the last issue of Tile Today, there has been a number of positive signs that the Australian tile industry remains confident and self-assured about its future.

I was invited to the launch of Beaumont Tiles’ exclusive distribution deal with the Decoratori Bassanesi collection. The range seemed to be a good fit with its Beaumont Studio locations which were launched a year ago to provide a high end retail experience for professional end-users.

The Italian-themed event was elevated by the presence of the representatives from Decoratori Bassanesi who all exuded natural, sophisticated charm.

Vicky Cammiade Publisher

In WA, Labyrinth Tiles is moving into wholesale for the first time in 25 years and is reaching out to tile retailers who may be interested in stocking its product.

Clear Software celebrated its 10th anniversary recently and floor equipment supplier Floorex just added to its number of branches.

At Tile Today, there has also been a few changes. Trudi Woodward is taking on the role of advertising sales manager for the magazine following Ashley Cooper’s retirement. She has extensive media experience and looks forward to working with you to help implement your communication and promotional strategies.

Betty Tanddo Editor

As a result of ransomware that corrupted its data, the infotile.com website is being re-developed so that the information and articles can be easily accessed.

We take our role as the only publication for the tile industry seriously and would welcome any feedback.

Until next time, Anthony Stock Contributing Editor

Betty Tanddo Editor Joe Simpson International Correspondent

FRONT COVER IMAGE Ege Seramik’s Urbandwood tile is a one-of-a-kind, slightly textured glazed porcelain tile that has the look of rugged, weathered natural wood. Available in one multicolor earth-tone, it is produced using the company’s advanced inkjet techniques.

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Philip Ashley Machinery Editor

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T RENDS

New markets for tiles that replicate stone With textured tiles at the forefront of interior design trends, the case for stocking a broad range of stone-effect tiles has never been stronger. International correspondent, Joe Simpson reports.

T

he past few years has witnessed a surge in the demand for stone-effect tiles largely due to advances in printing technology that have allowed the creation of much more realistic and sophisticated looking products. This, coupled with increasing consumer appetite for low maintenance products, has seen consumer turn in increasing numbers to stone-effect porcelain tiles; a trend that shows no signs of abating.

There can be no doubt that much of this popularity is also down to consumer lifestyle choices. Australia is a nation of busy people who are constantly on the go and porcelain tiles are durable, suitable for hightraffic areas of the home and much easier to look after and clean than its natural stone counterparts, which usually require sealing or ongoing specialist treatment.

Manufactured using ultra-fine porcelain clays fired at extremely high temperatures, porcelain stoneeffect tiles are much harder, denser and less porous than natural stone and, therefore, less susceptible to damage from the elements. This means they need less maintenance and are harder wearing, and they don’t require sealing or treatments to keep their look or finish in top condition.

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Porcelain tiles are also produced to specific standards, ensuring quality, consistency and uniform sizing, while virtually eliminating defects that would occur with natural stone, making them easier for the installer to lay and much harder to chip or crack.

As a result, ceramic stone-effect tiles are both practical and versatile making them an established best seller for retailers.

When it comes to fitting, ceramic tiles are also easy to cut and install, and require no special treatment or maintenance; selling points that really appeal to consumers.

Keraben’s Metropol has a stone-effect design conspicuous for its bold personality, inspired by grainy textures and subtle relief patterns.

With so many different shapes, sizes, colours and finishes now available, driven by the advances in manufacturing techniques, particularly digital inkjet printing, it is clear to see why so many homeowners favour stone-effect ceramic tiles over the natural alternative.

However, while offer the customer a choice of designs that might not be within their budget if they were to use real stone, research shows that consumers find the process of choosing tiles difficult, so, for retailers, education and informative in store marketing is key.

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T RENDS

Cercom’s Stone Box includes the chromatic variety of slate in its Multicolor and Multicolor Selected tiles.

The benefits of ceramic stoneeffects should be clearly explained to consumers to guide them through the decision making process. The quality and accuracy of high definition printing these days, ensures that ceramic tiles are hard to distinguish from natural stone, yet they generally come at a lower price point.

Retailers should focus on promoting the practical benefits of stone-effect ceramic tiles, explaining them in terms of aesthetics and authenticity of today’s high definition digital inkjet printing technology, and emphasising the wide range of styles and finishes that are now available.

One hot area in terms of design is the use of stone-effect tiles combined with raised prints to create added texture and feature areas. Surfaces 10 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

have a tactile, three-dimensional quality, bringing visual intrigue to design schemes within an organic, natural colour palette.

Wave designs are becoming increasingly popular, as homeowners value the tranquil, spa-like feel, that they can bring to bathrooms.

For a glamorous, more opulent take on natural stone, marble-effect ceramic tiles ooze elegance with their intricate veining and detail.

Digital inkjet printing also brings high-end options, such as book matched marble slabs, within reach of average home owners for the first time.

Previously the exclusive preserve of the well to do, these new porcelain slabs can be used to create plush feature walls behind beds or an opulent feel for kitchens, bathrooms or hallways.

Many of these faux marble panels come in a stunning high gloss finish that is able to bounce light around a room, and also complement ontrend background colours of beige, grey, greige and white.

With modern ink jet technologies, it doesn’t matter if the homeowner is after marble, slate or limestone, there’s a porcelain alternative that will give them the same desired look. ■

Ceramiche Coem’s Brit Stone is a range of unpolished and polished rectified stone-effect tiles in 750 by 1,500mm, 600 by 1,200mm, 450 by 900mm, 150 by 900mm and 300 by 600mm formats.

Colour options are Ivory, Sand, Grey, Dark, Graphite and Ocean.

Get in touch with us today!

T RENDS

Technology turns tile into stone

Natural stone products can be convincingly emulated with the use of digital ink-jet technologies.

N

atural stone will always have its adherents because of its unique nature and its authenticity. But if imitation is a sincere form of flattery, the stone sector should be concerned about the developments in decoration and production processes that tile makers have mastered.

Ink-jet printing is the catalyst for the huge advances in replication of natural stone, timber, brick, concrete, fabrics and other surface finishes which are printed on the surface of a tile.

These advances are frequently applied to tile formats, which grow ever larger and as a consequence, the achievements in aesthetics are even more noticeable and pronounced.

Ink-jet decoration of tile relies on the terminals of the printer heads, which contain millions of pixels and are capable of precisely distributing ink over the body of the tile, prior to commencement of the firing process.

Some digital printers have as many as six heads. Additional heads can be used to render more vivid colours which have revolutionised the art of tile decoration.

These heads do not touch the body of the tile.

Some colours are more difficult to render than others, particularly dark shades and black.

Silk screen printing and rotocolor processes are still evident in some

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countries, particularly in China.

But it is anticipated that ink-jet printing will eventually dominate the market.

One of the advantages of inkjet printing relates to the ability to print right to the very edge of the tile. This cannot be achieved with silk screen or rotocolor processes.

Tile manufacturers enjoy a host of benefits associated with inkjet technologies, from reduction of time spent cleaning rotocolor equipment and the elimination of seragraphics which were essential to the silk screen printing process.

Digital ink-jet printing is both accurate and flexible. Vivid designs can be rendered from digital images and reproduced with the same quality. Almost any image can be added to the surface of a tile. This provides designers and specifiers with opportunities to create unique designs for use on practically any surface.

In simple terms, all of the classic natural stones are now effectively imitated by leading tile manufacturers in a stunning variety of sizes, colours and textures. For obvious reasons, stone was one of the first natural products that tile manufacturers strived to imitate.

If the looks match the practical benefits of durability and low maintenance associated with ceramic tile, a market can be created in

commercial environments where natural stone is still embraced by developers and specifiers. â– From Tony Stock Top: Elements Lux by Keope is available in six sizes and five versions with a honed finish. The featured Calcatta marble authentically resembles the intense variation found in natural stone. These products are less porous, more durable and low maintenance compared to the marble they emulate.

Below: Tracks by Fiordo (Italy) accurately replicates the smooth surface of natural limestone in four colours and several sizes.

Bottom: Genus is produced by Italian company Imola in warm beige colour tones in 1200 x 1200mm, 600 x 600mm, 300 x 600mm and 750 x 750mm formats, complemented by a 250 x 750mm wall tile.

T RENDS

Decorative cement tiles from Aguayo Tiles, one of the largest makers of cement products in the Dominican Republic.

Coverings 2017:an overview The Coverings event claims it is the biggest tile and stone show in North America. This year it exceeded expectations, writes international correspondent Joe Simpson.

Colorker’s Brooklyn range is a multi-purpose tile ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

I

t was somewhat of a surprise that so many European manufacturers chose to launch new products at Coverings. In the past ten years or so, the global tile industry seemed to decide that an annual product launch at Cersaie was the most cost-effective way to introduce its latest products to tile buyers.

Even the major Spanish producers have tended, postrecession, to hold back very little for Cevisama.

However, with Coverings spaced six months ahead (or behind) Cersaie, some of the major players have gone back to spring and autumn launches instead of the single annual collection model.

They are using the trade show to not only spearhead sales into the North American market, but also as the international debut of selected products.

This makes Coverings even more important as an event, but judging by the attendance at Orlando, Florida > continues p. 16

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T RENDS

this year, this message has yet to hit home with most Australian tile buyers.

Given the sheer ease of attendance at this well organised exhibition, I believe these buyers are missing a trick.

When a large-scale company such as Florim presents an entire stand of brand-new designs – many of which are a significant step forward from the collections shown at Cersaie 2016 – it is probably fair to say that Coverings now deserves to be considered as a key date for the buying team from every serious Australian distributor and retailer.

Recent tile trends Digital ink jet decoration and, latterly, digital glazing, have been real gamechangers in the ceramic tile sector.

Coverings provided ample evidence that digital decoration allows precise, detailed and accurate printing of virtually any design. It also allows continuous printing on textured or 3D surfaces.

Digital decoration provides full edge-to-edge printing on tiles even at high speeds for pattern matching, such as book-matched stone panels, continuous fabric-effects, etc.

At Coverings, most of the dominant trends of recent years, such as faux wood, concrete, light marbles, brick patterns, chevrons, hexagons, 3D forms and dramatic distressed decors, could be seen. These trends are continuing to develop in interesting directions; with more dramatic colourways and patterns coming to the fore, and mixed material combinations adding impact to base tiles.

Aparici’s encaustic tile style Bondi series.

The move towards fabric-effect tiles at Cersaie was much more widely seen at Coverings than either Revestir or Cevisama. The overall standard was very strong, with soft, tactile surfaces, retrained colourways and excellent tonal balances. Mainly the province of the top Italian factories, the most up-to-date fabric effects span twill, suede, leather, seagrass, hessian, jute, velvet, tweed, canvas, linen and denim.

Modern luxury remains popular with elegant white marble-effect tiles. Black and white is a timeless favourite and, so Carrara and Statuario were frequently paired with black marbles for an up-market twist on this classic combination.

At the same time, the tile sector is seeing a growing trend towards tiles that recall traditional artisanal tiles, celebrating the craftsmanship Tiles with naturalistic motifs from Cerdisa.

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of hand-made ceramic tiles.

Pearlescent glazes, rich pastel hues and brick shapes all helped to breathe life into small format wall tiles.

Terracotta effects are growing in popularity, many with an aged facade that was previously unattainable.

Informed use of texture is now the key to the appeal of many floor and wall tiles today. Utilising the latest generation of through-bodied porcelain and digital decoration, manufacturers are using texture to add detail and visual interest into classic tiling solutions that replicate both stone and, in particular, wood.

Here, the texture is often linked to rich, dark hues such as burnt oak, coffee and tobacco.

In fact, when it came to woodeffect tiles, darker woods, paint effects and distressed finishes were prominent at all three shows. Added interest was sparked by fashionable chevron and parquet patterns; the use of end-grain textures; antique and reclaimed patinas, and tactile relief finishes.

Another theme at Coverings was plaster, concrete and other mainstream construction materials, either recreated in a very realistic form or tweaked with subtle changes in texture, tone or grain.

Other ranges offered hints of postindustrial plaster, resin, plaster and stucco – particularly spatulated effects with a softer, more feminine, surface. > continues p. 18

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Two technical developments are mica or gloss inclusions, and the newest version of semi-polished surfaces. The first are made by applying gloss glaze, via ink jet, in small dots to mimic mica inclusions. These introduce a sense of movement to both wall and floor tiles, because the dots catch and reflect light based on the position of the viewer relative to the light source.

The trend in polishing, so far confined to just a few manufacturers, is sprinkling glass grains onto the glazed surface, and then running the polishing heads so that they only contact these grains and not the surface of the tile. The result is glosson-gloss polish, but with good slip resistance.

Coverings saw another wave of decorative tiles emerge, delivered in a limited palette of restrained earth tones. Some of the best cementeffect tiles also featured cementine and hydraulic tile decors that recall Moroccan cement encaustic tiles but with a contemporary twist. These geometric configurations repeat in a subtle way that work well with this dusty colour palette.

Others went for a scratched plaster-effect surface of plaster in neutral and powdery shades like sand, taupe, grey and anthracite.

So it is clear that the Heritage decorated cement-effect floor tile is here to stay, at least for the next couple of years. The appearance of these tiles is based on the juxtaposition of colours but can be used to create more sophisticated patterns, in keeping with the Art Deco and Liberty styles.

Reinterpreted in current colours, this trend has moved beyond the art studio into the mainstream.

3D tiles from Atlas Concorde were part of the Coverings Installation Design Showcase.

The Waterfall range from Lea Ceramiche represents the best elements of slate.

The Sofia range from Bardelli is a “precious ceramic rug� designed

by Marcel Wanders.

One of the most unexpected trends of 2016/17 has been the widespread revival of cotto- and terracotta-effect tiles. By re-working this iconic material using digital ink jet, they give terracotta a present-day appeal. Tones include kiln-scorched tones, distressed surfaces, simulate ageing, as well as the patina and lustre of genuine fired brick.

Other interesting motifs include another take on corten steel wall and floor tiles, this time utilising the monolithic potential of mega slabs.

Touring the displays The wide assortment of tiles on display, from factories across the globe, was extremely impressive; with USA-based producers providing ample evidence of just how far American tile production has advanced in the past decade.

This means that all the established virtues of Coverings, such as its excellent venue, choice of flights, plentiful supply of hotel rooms and, above all, its superb conference program, are now supplemented > continues p. 20

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20mm

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by a truly international selection of leading tile manufacturers.

Along with the growing coterie of US-based manufacturers, there were sizable delegations from Italy, Spain, Turkey, Brazil, China and a smattering of leading producers from other tile producing nations.

Ceramics of Italy was, once again, centre stage. This pavilion featured 76 stands and 116 brands.

Returning for a second year, the central stand, Strada Dinamica, served as an industry information hub and authentic Italian café: a good place to meet colleagues, enjoy an espresso and relax.

Conceived by New York architecture firm e+i studio, the space was modelled after a lively streetscape with landscaped benches, standing communal tables and two kiosks housing a cafe, coffee bar and information desk. Nearly all of the surfaces were clad in Italian tile, such as the thin, jumbo-sized porcelain slabs from Florim’s Magnum Oversize collection covering the benches, tables and countertops.

Thick, large-format floor tiles from Lea Ceramiche were set on a raised flooring system by Newfloor.

The surrounding Italian manufacturers demonstrated the latest in artisanal ceramics, highend mosaics and ceramic-porcelain hybrids through to oversized porcelain slabs, anti-bacterial grouts and easy laying floor systems.

This year, textile and wood-effect designs, matte blacks, deep blue hues, 3D and large-format tiles, along with rustic styles invigorated with a modern touch dominated the exhibition floor.

For the eighth consecutive year, Ceramics of Italy participated in the Coverings Installation Design Showcase, an initiative that allows the association to promote the extensive uses of Italian ceramics together with creative design and expert installation. For the first time, Coverings partnered with Orlando Lakefront – a tiny home and RV community in College Park, Florida — to create small spaces that were moved to the tiny home community at the event’s conclusion.

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This display was co-ordinated by tiny home expert Kim Lewis, who put together a modern retro bungalow concept titled Palm Springs. It highlighted colourful, 3D and marble-look tiles from Atlas Concorde and tiles with naturalistic motifs from Cisa and Cerdisa. The company also hosted an informative VIP lunch and tour, giving specifiers an insider’s view at the Italian ceramic tile industry.

The Italian contribution to the conference program included Cristina Faedi from Confindustria Ceramica, along with other tile industry experts, leading a debate called “Trends in Tile: Moving”.

Sustainability experts, including Confindustria Ceramica’s Andrea Contri, also participated in a presentation called “Health, Safety, Environment, Design: Selling Tile Sustainability”.

Not to be outdone, Turkish Ceramics had a central relaxation hub called the Turkish Charging Station, a lounge-like area providing real

Turkish coffee among other essentials. Participating exhibitors also featured a wealth of new products.

Ege Seramik’s Urbanwood is a slightly textured glazed porcelain tile that has the appearance of weathered natural wood, ideal for inside-out areas. With random, neutral colours, the product is made using advanced, high definition, inkjet techniques in a 200 by 1,200mm plank format.

Usak Seramik introduced Tufo Anthracite to the USA: a 600 by 1,200mm technical porcelain floor tile inspired by this natural stone.

Kale Seramik’s Kalebodur brand focussed on Kaleinterflex, a fibrereinforced laminated porcelain sheet measuring 1,000 by 3,000 by 3mm. One of the biggest, thinnest and most flexible porcelain ceramics in the world, its offers wide application possibilities due to its size and fine structure.

Bien Seramik presented Alaturca, a series of tiles reflecting the spirit of old Ottoman and Turkish > continues p. 22

Ege Seramik’s Urbanwood is a slightly textured glazed porcelain tile that has the appearance of weathered natural wood.

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T RENDS

Cementine Retro IS Inspired by traditional hexagonal or square concrete floor tiles

motifs. They have been given a boost with state-of-the-art decorating technology.

Made in the USA Alongside a strong representation from indigenous producers such as Crossville, Florida Tile, Lunada Bay, Red Rock Tilewoks, Seneca Tiles, SomerTile, StonePeak Ceramics, Trikeenan Tileworks, Wholesale Tile by Aquayo and others, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) provided useful insights regarding the official tile installation handbook.

The new classification for enormoussize tiles which, in America at least, are now referred to as gauged porcelain tile panels/slabs.

Currently known in industry parlance as the “thin tile” standards, the latest standards use the term “gauged” to cover a number of precise thicknesses that can carry different loads and be used in various ways, taking a similar approach to standardised wire gauges and gauged sheet metal. Two classes of gauged tile products are defined — those for wall applications from 3.5 to 4.9mm and for floor and wall applications from 5.0 to 6.5mm.

ANSI A137.3 standardises the minimum required properties for the products and ANSI A108.19 standardises the methodologies for installing these products in interior installations by the thin-bed method with specific mortars.

In another important project, the US tile industry has united in a marketing and education initiative to inspire consumers and provide information on the benefits of tiles.

The campaign, called “Why Tile”, was introduced at Coverings.

Why Tile is an industry effort with input sought from various organisations including the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF), the Tile Contractors Association of America, and the Tile Heritage Foundation (THF), in addition to manufacturers worldwide.

The website, WhyTile.com provides extensive messaging on the benefits of tile, focusing on four main tenets: Design, Easy Care, Healthy Spaces, and Heritage. The site has an Inspiration Gallery; downloadable Project Guide, schematics,

maintenance tips; and a Test Your Tile IQ feature where users can take a simple 10-question quiz for a chance to win a prize.

Spanish innovation That other international giant, Tile of Spain, displayed some of the most advanced technology and design choices from 97 Spanish ceramic and stone manufacturers.

Highlights of the Spanish Pavilion at Coverings included Aparici’s encaustic tile style Bondi series. This porcelain selection has a smooth finish with an anti-slip rating due to a technique the company has recently developed. Sensations from texture are the basis of the Markham Wall, a pure white, 450 by 1,200mm wall tile in satin and gloss finishes, also seen at the Cevisama event.

Colorker’s Brooklyn range is a multi-purpose tile ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, that taps into the industrial trend. The three colours – Pearl, Corten and Steel – come together to form urban elegance in a space.

The Cambridge line by Grespania provides a wood-look effect with the technical benefits of porcelain tile. The > continues p. 24

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T RENDS

smoked wood finish distinguishes it from similar products. It is available in four colours: Caramel, Coffee, Midnight and Moon.

Ibero Porcelanico unveiled Habita, a 280 by 940mm woodeffect porcelain tile with the natural beauty of recovered wood. It has four tonalities within two different colour palettes to recreate the warm and cool hues of nature.

Inalco’s Iseo is a large format wall and floor tile inspired by natural materials that resembles quarried stone with an elegant, bush-hammered texture. This tile is available in four slimline formats or in standard thickness with an optional non-slip finish.

Inspired by vintage ceramic tiles, Remake by Keraben brings warmth and a distinct personality to walls and floors. Available in five shades including White, Cream, Grey, Mink and Multicoloured, the range has an option for an artistic patterned finish.

Saloni’s Eternal porcelain tile set takes a fresh approach of two types of marble to create a contemporary, chromatic interpretation. Eternal is completed with multiple relief options and various technical finishes for durability.

Following the wood-look trend, Merbau from STN Ceramica is a floor and wall tile that adds personality with its worn appearance.

From the Dolce Vita collection, Vives introduced US buyers to Borgo Multicolor from the Corso series. The exotic design alternates through a variety of colours with a white base to enrich the contrast of the space. It is available in a 100 by 200mm size format.

The Ceramics of Italy pavilion featured 76 stands and 116 brands.

Artistic ventures One of the unique attractions of Coverings to Australian visitors is the opportunity to see committed tile makers active in the USA. For 2017, as in previous years, they were generally grouped in a compact village of small stands so the impact value per square metre is significantly enhanced.

One exhibitor to catch the eye was Metropolitan Tile, who included some neat explorations of the recent brick trend.

Royal Thin Brick can be used on walls or floors, providing many options for adding the look of real brick while keeping costs down. This tile is tumbled after firing to capture the essence of worn reclaimed bricks. During the tumbling process, crisp edges are worn down, and sharp corners are rounded or knocked off. The appearance of distressed brick is made complete with a traditional wire cut face that gives it added texture and variation.

Another standout manufacturer was Lunada Bay Tile. The company produces hand-crafted glass, ceramic, pewter, stone and wood tiles with the emphasis on simplicity, texture and colour.

There were two particularly striking ranges on offer this year.

STARSTILE AT COVERINGS Starstile and its sister brand Urban Feelings exhibited for the fifth year in a row at Coverings. The stand was successful for both the brands, registering orders for the latest product ranges. It also attracted new customers to the company. Both Starstile and Urban Feelings will exhibit in Atlanta, Georgia, in the 2018 edition of the trade fair.

24 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Origami Mosaic takes inspiration from the ancient Japanese art of paper folding. The result are delicate angles and subtle geometries that take the typical forms of origami and remakes them in 3D glass mosaic. There were four patterns, with shapes including hexagons, squares and elongated hexagonal cuboids.

Tommy Bahama has partnered with Lunada Bay Tile to generate tiles featuring hand-crafted glass blends influenced by exotic, virgin habitats from around the world: the Maldives, Cocos Keeling and Kangaroo Island to name a few.

They come in 1 by 1-inch square, 1 by 2-inch and 1 by 4-inch brick, 1/2 by 4-inch brick, zigzag chevrons, and an effective mix of 1/2 by 1/2-inch squares and 1 by 2-inch brick named Vineyard. The blended colours have subtle notes of stronger hues artfully combined with neutrals. This is striking addition to the mosaic pantheon.

Finally, Bloom, Curves, Dunes and Wave plus Circle, Link, Pinwheel and Trio by Nicole Rodriguez formed part of an impressive portfolio of decorative cement tiles displayed by Aguayo Tiles. This is a funky twist on the encaustic and geometric trend realised with total creative assurance. ■

MARKETS

Tile demand determined by building trends Ceramic tile imports have peaked recently based on the latest ABS data, writes Peter Halliday.

T

here are two interesting features contained in the import data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in early August.

The first is that data covers the March and June quarters of 2017 with a breakdown of imports by the new HTISC (Harmonised Tariff Item Statistical Code) categories based on water absorption and tile size. The second shows that ceramic tile imports peaked in the March quarter of 2017.

The final import volume for the 2016-2017 financial year was 45,509,514 square metres. This represents a 0.2 per cent fall on the previous financial year. The total customs value of imports was AUD468,764,777. This compares with AUD495,852,088 last financial year, a decrease of 5.5 per cent.

Fig.1 shows the remarkable growth of imports over last seven years. After continuously recorded increases since the June Quarter, 2013, we have seen two quarters of negative growth in December 2016 and June 2017. Imports reached their highest ever level in the March Quarter, 2017 at an annualised rate of 46,860,750 square metres.

The question that arises from this type of situation is, “Has the ceramic tile market peaked”?

It is noted that the record level of tile imports follows record high building

approvals which peaked in May 2016. the director of construction statistics at the ABS, Daniel Rossi said, “The June 2017 building approval data showed that the number of dwellings approved is now 15 per cent below the peak in May 2016”. He also noted that dwelling approvals have been relatively stable in trend terms over the first six months of 2017 so it can be assumed that ceramic tile imports will fall from the record high levels following a decline in building commencements.

Over 90 per cent of tile imports were sourced from five countries in 2016-2017. China is still the biggest source for all tiles imported into Australia. China increased its market share of imports from 66.6 to 67.8 per cent. Australia is one of the few global regions where China is still increasing exports of ceramic tiles.

Imports from China rose 2 per cent.

Italy was the second biggest source for tiles, exporting 4,166,146 square metres to Australia, a fall of 3 per cent on the previous financial year.

Malaysia fell by 5 per cent while Spain fell by 20 per cent, although this followed a large increase in the previous year. Thailand increased exports to Australia by 15 per cent.

The total ceramic tile import data by country of origin is shown in Fig.2.

The average price per square metre of

FIG.1 CERAMIC TILE IMPORTS – MOVING 12 MONTH TOTAL

26 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

imported tiles reduced from A$10.88 to A$10.30 over the financial year.

The new HTISCs give a fresh insight into the type of tiles that make up the ceramic tile import figures.

While the old categories divided tiles into two broad categories —unglazed and glazed — the latest categories are more aligned to the ISO tile classes which classifies tiles firstly by moisture absorption.

The HTISC classes further breaks down the category by the traditional customs sizes, distinguishing between large tiles and mosaic sized tiles (capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is greater than, or less than 7cm). Fig.3 highlights these categories and the import data is broken down over the first two quarters of 2017.

It can be clearly seen that over 52 per cent of tiles are larger porcelain tiles, 20 percent are tiles with low moisture absorption and only 12.3 percent of tiles imported are traditional wall tile type with a moisture absorption of over 10 per cent.

State imports shown in Fig.4 show that in 2016-2017, New South Wales lifted its share of the national tile import total for the third successive year. In 2013-2014, total imports to New South Wales was 35.6 per cent of the national total. In 2016-2017

FIG.2 TOTAL CERAMIC TILE IMPORTS 2016-2017 DECLARED DESTINATION STATE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN

New South Wales*

Northern Territory

Queensland

South Australia

Tasmania

Argentina 1,960

Belgium

2,923

4,254

3,341

1,599

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Czech Republic

177,795

28,472

1,861

952

12,807,312

274,674

6,818,080

1,495,542

144,054

1,256

7,515 4

France

23,836

178

Germany

59,692

4,593

Hong Kong (SAR of China)

33,288 169,246

1,090

Indonesia

105,364

9,245

Iran

1,897

1,017

30,580

7,719

153,988

26,658

21,715

400

Israel 1,772,862

Japan

48,800

Jordan

10

15,555

621,417

153,727

164,356

2,091

17,021

2,974

Malaysia

921,847

41,301

1,252,890

250,508

Mexico

2,201

1,908

17

Morocco

4,090

238

Netherlands

6,165

New Zealand

6,227

Philippines

6,975 28,488

23,428

5,014

Korea, Republic of

Portugal

13,828

174,406

52

2,974

60,004 1,039

9,965

280,920

4,382,354

5,908

6,177

54,708

6,903,479

2,421,728

30,864,870

258,495,963

1,080

2,231

12,082

90,619

61,874

2,230

525

930

22,193

3,382

5,048

57,954

975,463

66,809

16,548

147,642

3,144,903

4,802

10,214

52,308

515,227

292,885

3,261,063

108,990

50,498

476,458

5,201,329

810

1,210

12,918

950

950

19,650

903,680

675,477

4,166,146

97,115,575

50,468

2,301

106,582

2,314,066

Sri Lanka

132,990

925

220,559

25,257

133,564

10,972

3,212

186,754

1,792,932 30,126,650

215,541

4,103,855

816

480

5,423

80,238

2,793

7,122

326,704

9,492

15,657

609,302

999

7,751

68,528

50,231

54

3,855 679,575

10 1,419,538

9,634

6,975

68,536

119,906

2,339,714

80

3,290

3,110

30,249

140

140

1,137

3,487

61,033

19,120

30,006

292,825

3,487

Spain

7,238

42,238

Serbia

9,174

239 43,101

80

1,658

7,617

6,547

3,110

Seychelles

163

1,921

Romania

South Africa

2,674

312

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

140,145

239

India

Italy

4,277

159

25,472

Total Customs Value AUD

898

270

Egypt

Hungary

Total Square Metres

898

Bulgaria China (excluding SARs and Taiwan)

Western Australia 4,277

Australia (Re-imports)

Brazil

Victoria

15

400

3,079

7,350

104,529

15,809

372,932

199,684

1,514,741

31,075,148

30,188

205,897

513,611

4,709,714

Sweden

20

20

2,978

Switzerland

30

30

4,491

Taiwan Thailand Tunisia

26

Turkey

90,205

Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America Viet Nam

2,367

2,414 717,398

648

State Share

13,028

192,588

13,035

17

4,620

20

9,421

266,483

180,797

101,156

1,182,881

6,808,665

26

7,570

34,720

45,071

375,620

4,787,959

1,149

15,649

107,964

2,181

696,484

6,740,739 340,028

1,140

9 495,678

5,418

80,785

4,460

5,546

1,699

13,197

267

20,710

10,663

1,442

184

180

12,470

314,651

127,171

35,628

16,498

2,717

196,061

1,796,116

Zimbabwe

Total

169,836

14,047

100

11,420

18,618,431

351,876

9,811,664

100

2,055,415

213,268

10,407,232

4,051,627

45,509,514

468,764,777

41%

1%

22%

5%

0%

23%

9%

100%

Data source: ABS * NSW figures inc 217 for ACT www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #94 | 27

MARKETS

FIG.3 CERAMIC TILE IMPORTS BY STATE Financial Year State Total

2012 – 2013

% of Annual Total State Total

2013 – 2014

% of Annual Total State Total

2014 – 2015

% of Annual Total State Total

2015 – 2016

% of Annual Total State Total

2016 – 2017

% of Annual Total

DECLARED DESTINATION STATE New South Wales*

Northern Territory

Queensland

South Australia

Tasmania

Victoria

Western Australia

Total SQM

11,769,901

447,759

6,582,414

1,877,920

156,089

7,871,037

3,724,185

32,429,304

36.3%

1.4%

20.3%

5.8%

0.5%

24.3%

11.5%

100.0%

13,125,816

607,672

7,428,412

2,067,966

183,187

8,824,870

4,659,182

36,897,106

35.6%

1.6%

20.1%

5.6%

0.5%

23.9%

12.6%

100.0%

15,138,141

682,979

8,563,024

2,142,032

210,162

9,920,488

5,092,978

41,749,973

36.3%

1.6%

20.5%

5.1%

0.5%

23.8%

12.2%

100.0%

17,876,255

572,244

9,697,908

2,150,700

204,007

10,163,057

4,914,468

45,578,639

39.2%

1.3%

21.3%

4.7%

0.4%

22.3%

10.8%

100.0%

18,618,431

351,876

9,811,664

2,055,415

213,268

10,407,232

4,051,627

45,509,514

40.9%

0.8%

21.6%

4.5%

0.5%

22.9%

8.9%

100.0%

Data source: ABS * Incudes ACT: 3004 SQM

FIG.4 SIX MONTH CERAMIC TILE IMPORTS - JANUARY - JUNE 2017

SQUARE METRES

CUSTOMS VALUE AUD

6 MONTH TOTALS

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL

HTISC Code

Description

March Qtr, 2017

June Qtr, 2017

March Qtr, 2017

June Qtr, 2017

March Qtr, 2017

June Qtr, 2017

March Qtr, June Qtr, 2017 2017

6907211001

Tiles, cubes and similar articles, water absorption coefficient by weight not exc 0.5% (excl. 690730 and 690740), whether or not rectangular, largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is <7 cm

77,989.82

35,122.88

98,079.97

25,743.83

13,112.70

1,523,823.80

0.5%

Tiles, cubes and similar articles, water absorption coefficient by weight not exc 0.5% (excl. 690730 and 690740), whether or not rectangular, largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is >=7 cm

5,130,436.37

6,288,759.34

56,868,572.42

74,301,751.37

11,419,195.71

131,170,323.79 52.3%

58.3%

Tiles, cubes & similar articles, water absorption coefficient by weight exc 0.5% but not exc 10% (excl. 690730 & 690740) whether or not rectangular, largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is <7cm

17,657.45

3,883.14

73,945.60

38,042.83

21,540.59

11,988.43

0.1%

0.1%

Tiles, cubes & similar articles, water absorption coefficient by weight exc 0.5% but not exc 10% (excl. 690730 & 690740) whether or not rectangular largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is >=7cm

2,432,880.97

1,941,775.95

20,819,189.00

14,599,574.75

4,374,656.92

35,418,763.75

20.0%

15.7%

Tiles, cubes and similar articles, water absorption coefficient by weight exceeding 10% (excl. 690730 and 690740), whether or not rectangular, largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is <7 cm

1,141.72

5,966.08

14,090.40

93,065.05

7,107.80

07,155.45

0.0%

0.0%

Tiles, cubes and similar articles, water absorption coefficient by weight exceeding 10% (excl. 690730 and 690740), whether or not rectangular, largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is >=7 cm

1,128,422.22

1,562,640.67

8,538,685.38

10,672,342.25

2,691,062.89

19,211,027.63

12.3%

8.5%

6907301007

Mosaic ceramic tiles, cubes and similar articles (excluding those of 690740), whether or not rectangular, the largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is < 7 cm

43,452.67

35,044.28

71,293.00

15,318.91

78,496.95

1,686,611.91

0.4%

0.7%

6907309008

Mosaic ceramic tiles, cubes and similar articles (excluding those of 690740), whether or not rectangular, the largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is >=7 cm

47,763.57

49,215.92

28,331.20

658,998.88

96,979.49

1,287,330.08

0.4%

0.6%

6907401009

Finishing ceramic tiles, cubes and similar articles, whether or not rectangular, the largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is < 7 cm

73,843.00

22,583.37

40,345.93

60,437.33

96,426.37

1,300,783.26

0.4%

0.6%

6907409010

Finishing ceramic tiles, cubes and similar articles, whether or not rectangular, the largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is >=7 cm

2,105,839.46

30,333.87

23,828,925.12

9,164,171.26

2,936,173.33

32,993,096.38

13.4%

14.7%

113,781,458.02

111,229,446.46

6907219002

6907221003

6907229004

6907231005

6907239006

Grand Total

11,059,427.24

10,775,325.50

21,834,752.74

225,010,904.48

100.0%

Data source: ABS * Incudes ACT: 3004 SQM

the percentage share of the national total had risen to 40.9 per cent or 18,618,214 square metres, almost twice the size of Queensland imports.

The growth in New South Wales imports was 4.2 per cent.

Queensland imported 9,811,664 square metres. Victoria was the 28 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

second largest import destination with 22.9 per cent of the national total with imports continuing to rise.

Imports to Northern Territory fell for the second consecutive year as did South Australia to a smaller degree. Western Australia recorded a 17.6 percent decrease on the previous

financial year and over 1 million square metres less than at the peak of the market in 2014-2015. ■ Peter Halliday is the managing director at Decor8 Tiles

0.7%

100.0%

P ROJ E C T SP OTLIGH T

The Restaurant Augusta dining room.

All technical installations are arranged below ground, but accessible via inspection covers.

Going gourmet in Göttingen, Germany International correspondent Joe Simpson writes about the tile renovation at Restaurant Augusta.

F

irst used for potato storage for Germany’s oldest refectory, then as a jazz club and, more recently, as a disco bar, the cellar of Göttingen’s Alte Mensa is now the third location operated by the starrated gourmet chef Daniel Raub.

The renovation of this 200sqm cellar vault required great sensitivity; with architectural and engineering ingenuity needing to go hand in hand with sympathetic interior design.

The materials used not only had to be suitable for this historically important location, but also had to withstand the stresses imposed by a hectic gastronomic establishment.

As far as the ceramic floor tiles for the restaurant were concerned, the designers turned to a company with significant relevant experience, Agrob Buchtal.

Behind its beguiling decorative facade, Alte Mensa has been completely renovated over the past three years, in close collaboration with the historic monuments protection authority and the municipal archaeology office. The main objective was to restore the original shape and room layout, and to preserve any historically-significant structure that was uncovered during the works.

From 1922 to 2009, the refectory provided up to 2,000 students with

30 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

meals on two floors every day. Since February 2016, conferences as well as festive and cultural events, take place in the building.

The Georg-August-University, which has had the site renovated for EUR3.5 million, sees this project as one way to respond to increasing demand for bigger and more flexible facilities for events in the Göttingen town centre.

The Augusta restaurant is intended to complete the Alte Mensa conference building with a highquality gastronomic offering, while helping to enliven Wilhelmsplatz with an outdoor catering area. The university selected Raub as their partner for this venture.

Renovation challenges A stairway leads down to a vaulted cellar, which is typical of the massive buildings in the centre of Göttingen.

During the renovation, it was found that the cellar’s ceilings, erected in 1825, were too low for their planned use.

To overcome this difficulty, the pillars and exterior walls were underpinned in accordance with plans drawn up by the engineers Gockel, Baunatal. The insulation, as well as building services such as ventilation, electricity and water, were

arranged below ground, so that the room height could be increased by a total of 400 millimetres. During the seven-month construction period, a second entrance was also created for the cellar.

The key decisions concerning the interior were made by Raub himself.

“As regards to the floor covering, for example, it was important to me that all individual areas convey the impression of a unified whole”, he says.

That is why it became apparent, during the talks with the architect Tanja Gockel, that ceramic tiles were the best solution. With this ecologically and economically advantageous material it is possible to design the diverse zones as a visual ensemble despite their different taskspecific requirements. An example for this is the counter area, which directly adjoins the dining area but requires a quite different slip resistance, because, in this area, liquids and other slippery media can get on the floor, Gockel explains.

A solution had to be found which, on the one hand, harmonizes with the look and texture of the historic masonry while, also being robust and hard-wearing. This led to a decision in favour of porcelain stoneware tiles from Agrob Buchtal’s Valley range.

The kitchen area features tiles from the Emotion Grip range. The available slipresistance categories range from R9 to R12V4.

Visual harmony was created not only by the authentic surface look and earth-brown colour, but also by natural raw materials, such as coloured clay minerals, that are used in Valley’s manufacture. In addition, the range offers a wide range of formats and slip-resistance categories, so that the requirement for a 750 by 750mm tile in the rarely offered R11/B slip-resistance category for the counter area could be satisfied without sacrificing visual consistency.

But in the dining area, the chosen large format tile with R10/A slip resistance, complements the cross and barrel vaults, as well as the rubble wall.

Unglazed porcelain floor tiles, like those used here, are inherently hardwearing and stress-resistant. These

advantages are further improved by the factory-applied Protecta coating.

During the firing process, this coating is bonded to the biscuit and closes the micropores that are typical of unglazed ceramics. In this way, the penetration of potentially stainforming substances is effectively prevented. It also obviates the need for labour-intensive impregnation.

This benefit was confirmed by Raub, who subjected different floor coverings to a practical test. “I spilled wine or other liquids on them, and the tile was the only material with which I had no problem afterwards,” he states. “That convinced me, because this quality offers me aesthetics and functionality at the same time”.

Because of its aesthetic versatility and practical flexibility, Agrob Buchtal’s Valley collection has been used throughout the restaurant: from the dining and the counter areas through to the sanitary rooms.

This brings visual calm to the overall concept and yet creates an attractive contrast to the plastered walls and other elements of the interior design.

In the sanitary rooms, Valley tiles were combined with wall tiles from the Pasado range, alongside the Cuna decorative tile from the same series.

With its irregular lines and unique individuality, Cuna, represents the naturalness that is the core aesthetic of this building.

In the kitchen and storage rooms, Gockel decided in favour of Emotion

Grip ceramic tiles; also from Agrob Buchtal. “The creative scope that this range offers me is amazing, especially when designing functional rooms.

The kitchen is a workplace in which many aspects must be taken into account. “With colours and surfaces matched to each other, different slipresistance categories up to R12V4, and a wide range of formats including a mosaic in R10/B, Emotion Grip is an ideal collection for this application,” she explains.

This project shows that ceramic tiles are far more than just an attractive and practical finish. Used creatively, they can become an integral part of a project, offering visual continuity and meeting statutory health and safety requirements while freeing up the designer to experiment with a broad range of furniture and surface finishes. ■ All photos by Jochen Stüber, Hamburg.

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T EC H N ICAL

Avoiding disasters using tile Tile has role to play when it comes to building safety in large commercial projects.

I

n the United Kingdom, efforts are made to contain fires in tower blocks within the concrete unit in which they start. Allegedly, the tragic fire in Grenfell Tower in London recently was started by a freezer that malfunctioned. Apparently the flames leapt through an open window and set the faรงade cladding alight.

Some witnesses claim that the gap behind the cladding created a passage of air which fanned the flames of the fire, other witnesses state that fire quickly spread upwards along the line of a fire escape which was apparently adjacent to exposed gas pipes.

In practice, ventilated facades installed with suitable inert fireproof materials like ceramic tile can play a significant role in the climate control of a building.

The reason for the rapid spread of the fire are yet to be determined. However, it has quickly become clear that the installed cladding was not fireproof.

Within a fortnight similar cladding was being removed from tower blocks in London and other cities.

I have heard many accounts of expensive tiles being specified for use in private apartments being substituted by cheaper tiles of same dimensions and colour when the building work draws to its end and the budget has been exceeded.

Occupants may never spot the difference and the supposedly inferior tile may perform just as well as its more expensive counterpart.

However, substituting one cladding material and installation system for another is entirely different and the corresponding risks associated with failure are far greater.

Note: This article is not about illustrating the Grenfell fire disaster to highlight the benefits of ceramic tile. It is about the practical benefits associated with use of tile on building facades, where mechanical ventilated installation can play a significant part in reducing the costs of heating and

32 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

cooling a building. There are specific reasons why ceramic tile should be more extensively specified for use in commercial environments.

In Australia where homes have been destroyed by bushfire, use of ceramic tile as a cladding material remains relatively rare, but interest is growing.

Ceramic tile is not the only solution when it comes to finding a suitably safe cladding for a building faรงade but it may be the best. Why? Consider the following.

According to EN 13501-1, a standard that was published in February 2002, ceramic tile is the prime material in relation to the fire reaction tests defined in the standard.

The fire performance of flooring and wall cladding materials (including tile) are evaluated on the basis of the following parameters:

1. Heating power: Defined as the quantity of heat developed in the burn-up of a substance. According to this parameter, ceramic floor and wall tilings display complete inertia to combustion, in the range of temperatures that usually occur in a fire.

2.

Oxygen index: This is the minimum required oxygen concentration to keep a material burning. Ceramic materials are fire proof at any oxygen concentration.

3.

Ignition or spontaneous combustion temperature: These are temperatures at which a material starts to burn in the presence or absence of a flame, respectively. Once again, ceramic materials are fireproof.

4. Development of the flame: This corresponds to the rate of advance of the flame > continues p. 34

FIGURES 1. AND 2. DETAILS OF KERAION SYSTEMS WHICH ENABLES TILES TO BE HUNG SECURELY IN SIZES UP TO 1200 X 1200MM. FIGURE 2

FIGURE 1

Expressfix For moisture sensitive stone and tiles Fast turnover of jobs Early & high traffic Reduces lipping of floor tiles Long adjustment time www.bostik.com.au ÂŽBostik and the Bostik brand mark is a registered trademark of Bostik S.A ÂŽ2017 Bostik Australia Pty Ltd ABN 79 003 893 838. All rights reserved.

T EC H N ICAL

front.

5. Flammability: This is defined as the rate at which the flame travels from one side of the material to the other.

6. Length of the flames.

7. Combustibility: A parameter that considers the heat produced by combustion of the material and the speed at which this take place.

8. Density and toxicity of smoke: Many materials used in nonloadbearing structures produce smoke emissions. Smoke density is measured according to the standard of the National Bureau of Standards. Smoke is hazardous in itself, since it reduces visibility, hindering possible escape from a building in flames. However, it entails a risk of asphyxia and poisoning, since carbon monoxide is present in larger or smaller quantities in all combustion smoke. One the other hand, the use of organic materials of a petrochemical nature (PVC, polyurethane foams, and acrylic fibres) leads to increased concentrations of hydrocyanic acid and other toxic substances.

In relation to points 4, 5, 6 and 7, ceramic tiles are entirely inert to combustion. Correspondingly ceramic tiles produce absolutely no toxic smoke or gas emissions.

Even when tiles are fixed with ceramic tile adhesive, studies by the Rubber and Plastic Research Association of Great Britain have concluded that, “bonding materials used in ceramic tile installation display very satisfactory fire performance, demonstrate good mechanical strength, and produce hardly any emission of fumes or potentially toxic substances.”

The Institut De Promocio Ceramica reports: “It may be noted that analysis of laboratory tests and actual experience indicate that nonloadbearing building structures contribute most to the intensity and spread of flames, as well as to the formation of smoke and toxic gases.

Therefore, appropriate selection of these materials represents the most effective prevention measure.”

This finding directly questions the 34 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

suitability of the material chosen to cover Grenfell Tower and buildings in other parts of the world.

In its final analysis, the Institut De Promocio Ceramica determined: “It may be concluded that ceramic floor and wall tiles are the most appropriate preventive coverings in the case of fire, given their incombustibility, inhibiting capacity for flame propagation, and absolute innocuousness in relation to the production of smoke and toxic gases.

In addition, their delaying action in fire propagation can be useful for protecting the loadbearing structures, in addition to the temperature differential that their insulation capacity can establish between the fair face of the tiling and the base of the structure.”

Installation systems In commercial and private settings, tile can be adhered to correctly prepared building facades using ceramic tile adhesive. However, most adhesive manufacturers recommend

that the height of the tiling should not exceed 3.4 metres, in anticipation of reducing the danger associated with a tile or tiles that delaminate and fall to the ground.

Although this occurrence can be avoided, the vast majority of building facades clad in ceramic tile or natural stone are installed mechanically. This is particularly true in Europe, the United States and Australia. A growing number of fixing systems are available.

Naturally the structure must be capable of bearing the added load of the tiles and the fixing materials.

The KerAion system by Agrob Buchtal is one of the most advanced mechanical fixing packages. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the process and the components which allow users to securely install large ceramic panels (up to 1200 x 1200mm) to building facades.

Lightweight Quadro façade panels (18.5kgs per square metre) are available in a variety of colours. The key advantages of the system include: • the low weight facilitates easy t r a n s p o r t , > continues p. 50 3. Buchtal Tiles have been mechanically installed in the Ivy building, Surry Hills, Sydney

Ultralite S1

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DS DAR AN ST

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• 60% higher yield than conventional cementitious adhesives • Suitable for installations over heated screeds • Ideal for installing thin porcelain tiles on floors and walls including external facades • Bonding all types of mosaics on internal and external surfaces including swimming pools • Bonding natural stone on internal and external surfaces ** • Bonding all types and sizes of ceramic tiles • Internal and external applications • Excellent capacity of absorbing deformation in the substrate • Excellent back-buttering properties • Particularly long open and adjustment times to make C2TE S1 installation easier U

A

TI

Available in 13.5kg bags

M

TI

IC

TIL

ES

CE M EN

O

SA

DHE

SIV E S F O

RC

ER

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Pot life

8 hours

Open time

30 minutes

Adjustability time

45 minutes

Application temperature

from +5°C - +40°C

Application types

trowel

Ready for grouting

walls: after 4 - 8 hours floors: after 24 hours

Colour

grey and white

Shelf life

12 months

Packaging

13.5kg bag

Consumption*

5.4 – 6.8 m2 per 13.5kg bag

VOC content

<0.1 g/l

* consumption will vary depending on notched trowel size and method used ** NOT moisture sensitive

For further information please contact Mapei on 07 3276 5000 Email sales@mapei.com.au Website www.mapei.com.au Scan to download technical data sheet

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T EC H N ICAL

Tiling techniques: back-buttering and spot fixing As tile formats seemingly get larger and larger, correct substrate and background preparation becomes more important.

T

o a degree, small formats and mosaics can be carefully applied to cover undulating surfaces. Large format products are less forgiving consequently surfaces have to be as flat as possible.

However, in some circumstances, tile fixers will be challenged to tile over difficult surfaces like brick or structurally sound walls that are simply not flat.

Spot fixing is an old technique that has been widely employed to overcome uneven wall surfaces.

Tilers place a substantial blob of stiff adhesive on each corner of the

tile and one in the centre. The blobs are large enough to keep the back of the tile away from the uneven wall surface, after the tile has been pressed into position.

These days, some tile fixers still spot fix tiles despite the fact that AS 3958-1 2007: 54.6.2c states: “spot fixing where the tiles are fixed with four or five dabs of adhesive is not recommended and should be avoided at all times”.

Spot fixing is frowned upon because it does not comply with the contact coverage requirement stated in AS 3958. In essence, it is important to avoid creating voids behind the

Tile fixers need to achieve a minimum of 65 per cent contact coverage when tiles are adhered to residential walls. In commercial environments, wet areas and pools the figure can rise to 90 per cent. Using the correct adhesive, trowel and application method is vital. (Image from Mapei Australia.)

36 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

installed tiles. But sometimes spot fixing is unavoidable, for example, when narrow slithers of tile have to be fixed in spaces where a conventional trowel simply does not fit such as gaps above or beside fixtures like windows. Then the fixer can add adhesive to the back of the tile and press it into place, ensuring that each piece is flush with adjacent tiles.

If spot fixing is taboo, what can be done to overcome uneven wall substrates?

In an ideal world, certainly in one where larger formats have become commonplace, substrates should be prepared in accordance with standards and they should be flat, dry and smooth.

Recommended fixing techniques include thin-bed fixing. This technique should ensure that the final bed of adhesive does not exceed 3mm and voids behind the tiles are kept to a minimum.

In internal applications where there are dry conditions, notched trowel techniques should be employed using the following size trowel in relation to the tile format. (a) 200 x 200mm – 8mm notched trowel (b) 250 x 250mm – 10mm notched trowel (c) 300 x 300mm – 12mm notched trowel (d) 400 x 400mm and above – 12mm notched trowel and buttering of the tile Tiles are pressed firmly into the ribs of adhesive created by the notched trowel. The adhesive is generally applied horizontally on walls to prevent any moisture travelling downwards via the ribs of adhesive.

Ceramic tile adhesive should be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Particular care should be taken to avoid spreading too much adhesive to the substrate, as it may dry before tiles can be fixed and it will lose its ability to adhere correctly to the tiles.

Note in (d) that it is necessary to use added adhesive “buttered” evenly onto the back of the tiles. Contact coverage has to be maximised. The additional adhesive “buttered” on to the back of the tiles is often essential where contact coverage of adhesive is required to reach or exceed 80 per cent.

Internal residential walls Residential floors Commercial and industrial walls Commercial and industrial floors Wet areas Swimming pools External walls Exterior floors, decks and roofs

65% 80% 80% 90% 90% 90% 90% 90%

Different adhesives are chosen for specific backgrounds. For example, cement-based adhesives are primarily used on mature cement-rendered surfaces, concrete and brickwork.

Other thin-bed methods employed to fix tile are the “floating method” and the “buttering method”. It is good practice to combine traditional application of adhesive, using an appropriate notched trowel, with back-buttering techniques, especially when large format tiles are specified.

The back-buttering process is carried out by applying adhesive to the wall with the notched side of the trowel, a thin coat of adhesive is then applied to the entire back of the tile using the straight edge of the trowel.

The tile is then pressed into position.

A range of thick-bed adhesives are available to cope with uneven surfaces, and should be employed as described above, to the maximum thickness as specified by the manufacturer.

Builders will be fully aware of the necessity of providing flat, smooth, clean surfaces which are suitable for tiling. However, if and when fixers are challenged to tile over tricky backgrounds, there is generally a method that can be used, for brick: 1. Choose the right adhesive.

2. Wire-brush the bricks to remove any course materials.

3. Prime the brickwork, or use an adhesive with a built- in primer.

4. Allow enough time for the extra thick adhesive to dry before grouting.

Techniques like spot fixing save time and use fewer materials but are not always reliable. AS 3958-1 might be out of date and in urgent need of renewal following the introduction of slim products and other materials, however in practice it is an often used method. ■ From Anthony Stock

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I NSTA LL ATION

Bonding to difficult substrates and tile Epoxy adhesives are effective when greater chemical resistance or strength are required, according to Fred Gray.

E

very now and then we come across tiles or substrates that can’t be installed or installed on directly with our regular or even premium cement based adhesive.

A cement or dispersion based adhesive may not be able to achieve the bond to the tile or the substrate as required.

The water they contain may cause an undesirable physical change in the tile, like in the case of moisture sensitive stone.

Corrosion needs to be controlled or a high pH, for instance, may be too corrosive. It may also be that the adhesive does not have the required chemical resistance for your particular installation.

So what do you use when you want to install tiles on steel, stainless steel or polyester surfaces? Conversely, what do you use when you want to install steel or epoxy backed tile to concrete surfaces?

When executing installations with steel or polyester, it is desirable there is the least amount of involvement of underlayment’s or other improvisations where structural integrity is otherwise intact. Direct bonding is preferred.

But the use of underlayments may not be always avoided or desired. For instance, in the case of a steel access floor where bonding to it may not be the problem, but background rigidity and deflection is.

The point to keep in mind is, just because we can bond to it, does not mean we should and other factors may preclude direct bonding.

Fibreglass swimming pools are a good case in point. I don’t consider the surfaces ridged enough to tile, especially when the pools are near empty, but once the bond beams are installed, the coping and waterline areas are far more rigid and stable to support a tile system.

So I regularly specify direct tiling to copings and waterlines on drop in fibreglass pools with epoxy tile adhesives. I have even specified tiling systems over polyester lined concrete shells with epoxy adhesive and had great success.

Tiles being installed to a polyester lined concrete pool shell.

38 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Tile over polyester lining on concrete pool shell – finished.

The process is fairly straight forward for fibreglass pool shells with an epoxy adhesive, but there are a few things to keep in mind along with the normal tiling caveats.

The first thing is that these shells come with waxes and other bond inhibiting contaminants, like mould releases on them from the manufacturing process. It is important to remove them all prior to the tiling process.

This can be achieved in a variety of ways but for me, the simplest and most effective method is to mechanically clean the Gelcoat surface with a piece of 80 -120 grit sand paper to remove these waxes and contaminants. We bond very well to the Gelcoat so there is no requirement to remove it, sand through it, or expose the glass mat, but just to mechanically clean it to remove all the wax and other contaminants. Then simply wipe it down with a damp sponge to clean and you are ready to tile with an epoxy adhesive.

Check your adhesive supplier that their adhesives can be used this way. Secondly, these pools generally have water in them or are relatively full when being tiled so preventing spillage of the epoxy adhesive into the water is important. Epoxy adhesive that sits for a short length of time on the Gelcoat, even on an immersed surface, is likely to leave stains that can be difficult to remove.

Plastic sheeting floats, so it provides a good method of stopping epoxy adhesive from getting to places that are difficult to clean.

In a similar vein, bonding stone that has polyester or epoxies reinforcement coatings on the back are problematic for cement based adhesive but generally handled very well with epoxy adhesive. They don’t come with Gelcoats on them, so removing wax or mould release is not generally required. > continues p. 40

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I NSTA LL ATION

Steep plate that had a primer on it is not suitable to tile on. The paint was removed to expose a bright surface, epoxy coating applied to protect the steel and allowed to dry. Then tiled on with the same epoxy.

However, just be careful and ensure the coating is well adhered to the tile and is not the weak link in the system.

I have seen many coatings come away from the tile with relative ease whilst the epoxy adhesive has bonded very well to the coating.

Bonding tile to steel is another interesting area because if you leave a good quality cement based adhesive on your trowel, it will stick to it. However, steel usually corrodes to various degrees if unprotected and when tiled on, this corrosion can affect the integrity of the tiling system and the steel element being tiled on, depending on its environments.

So how do you correctly tile a steel column, steel stair or a steel road bridge? What should you watch out for or be mindful of aside from its rigidity? The main consideration is that you control any possibility of corrosion that may affect the structure or the tiling system. For instance, steel generally comes with paint or some sort of corrosion protection system on it that may or may not be suitable to bond a tile to.

The coating is also more than likely not designed to support a tiling load even if you can bond to it. So if you remove the steel’s protective coating in order to make it viable to tile on, you will have to replace it with an effective protective system that works with the tiling system when you tile.

Alternatively, it could be that you are presented with an already corroded piece of steel without any protective system on it for tiling.

Removing unsuitable coatings or corrosion and preparing steel for tiling generally means bringing the metal 40 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

back to an acceptable bright condition by some sort of mechanical means like grinding or grit blasting (see image above).

Once the surface is made bright, it should be immediately protected from the oxidisation process by covering it with a suitable protective system – like an epoxy coating. Even the same epoxy that you use to tile over it with would be convenient.

I normally specify that the epoxy is mixed to a suitably viscous state so it can be brushed on or flat trowelled, nominally 1mm thick, over the prepared steel to totally cover the surface. Once this dries, it can be tiled on, with the same epoxy adhesive – perhaps a little more viscous. Again, check with your adhesive supplier to ensure their adhesives can be used this way.

Some glass tiles with metalized coatings on them are sensitive to high pH from cement based adhesives. These coatings tend to produce or present with blackened flaky look through the tile. Similar to what you see on degrading mirrors. Epoxy adhesives are generally a good choice for dealing with these tiles.

Epoxy adhesives are very unique products due to their superior strength, chemical resistance, abilities to coat surfaces, and provide waterless fixing solutions. Despite their generally higher price, are very productive problem solvers. ■ Fred Gray is the technical services manager at Laticrete Australia

F E AT U RE D PR O D U CTS

Contemporary, wood-look tiles

Colour consistent grout Fusion Pro offers same or better performance than traditional 100% solids epoxy grout. No mixing is required and is highly resistant to stains. It is easy to apply and clean off, leaving full grout joints with no shade variation or efflorescence issues. There is no waste.

Custom Fusion Pro pre-mixed grout is available in a range of colours.

Treverkmore is a series of wood-effect tiles that convey the elegance of wood and the simplicity of stoneware. This range offers five colours in a collection that gets its individuality from a high degree of shade variation and rich surface patterning. The range also comes in a matching external finish that creates flow throughout a home.

ACT AUSTRALIA 1300 794 321 www.actaus.com

COLORTILE 1300 265 678 www.colortile.com.au

Super smooth cement grout Prism coloured grout is stain resistant and provides uniform colour with no efflorescence issues and full joints, making it suitable for large format tile installations. Weighing in at 7.7kg, Custom Prism will cover the same area as 12kg of traditional coloured grout.

ACT AUSTRALIA 1300 794 321 www.actaus.com

Warm and natural Circle Wood is the latest product offering from the Novelties collection by RAK Ceramics and interprets the real essence of wood. It is ideal for all kinds of indoor wall and floor coverings.

Circle wood is a glazed gres porcelain tile and is available in a wide range of colours including ivory, grey, greige, nut, beige and brown in plank size 19.5 x 120.

RAK CERAMICS 1300 661 727 www.rakceramics.com

A coastal environment Inspired by hues of the seaside landscape and fine shaded texture, Keystone can add a natural look to any home. This tile range can be used inside, alfresco and externally. Keystone is digitally printed with organic face variation, available in three sizes: 300 x 600, 600 x 600 and 600 x 1200. Colours: grey and white.

BEAUMONT TILES 03 8773 6000 www.beaumont-tiles.com.au

www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #94 | 41

F E AT U R ED P R ODUCTS

Strong resistance ACT Australia has launched Custom CEG-Lite 100% solids epoxy grout. It is a two component super lightweight epoxy grout with superior workability and coverage to traditional epoxy grouts. CEGLite is available in a number of colours.

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Up-cycling at its best Originâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s subtle undulating finish is created by its reclaimed glass and porcelain base. Its flexible laying options include herringbone, brick and straight stacked. The timeworn patterns are available in three contemporary shapes. They come in all colours and in a mix of four patterns.

SOUTHERN CROSS CERAMICS (03) 9561 9911 www.scceramics.com

Tiling smarter, not harder Easy Grout is a premium, pre-mixed and ready to use wall and floor tile grout suitable for interior tiling applications, according to Davco. Thanks to its innovative formulation, Easy Grout is ready to go once the lid is opened. No messy mixing and excess grout. It is resistant to stains, mould and bacteria and no efflorescence is guaranteed. And no sealing required.

PAREX DAVCO 1800 653 347 www.parexdavco.com.au

Bringing nature indoors Crest is a line of porcelain tiles inspired by the grace and splendour of snowy mountain peaks. Its designs mimic the beauty of marble, granite and sandstone to set a distinctive mood and tie interior designs together. Crest comes in four hues including beige, light beige, grey and light grey.

AMBER TILES 1300 139868 www.ambertiles.com.au

Everlasting tile The Cordoba range from Starstile is a complete collection of sizes and finishes, coming in lappato, matt and p5 (outdoor) as well as in 600 x 600, 300 x 600, 300 x 300 and the new 450 x 900. Suitable for any kind of application from residential to light commercial.

STARSTILE (FENICE INTERNATIONAL) www.starstile.it

42 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

NEWS

LOCAL NEWS La moda tiles through Beaumont The Decoratori Bassanesi collection, exclusively available through The Beaumont Studio, features irregular shapes with gossamer shades and thick mirrored silk-screen printed weaves.

Crafted from the finest Italian porcelain, it draws inspiration from upmarket contemporary designs that have been deconstructed, then rebuilt by Dutch designer Lex Pott and renowned architect, product designer, interior decorator and art director Paola Navone.

Beaumont Tiles design specialist Rachel Gilding believes Australia’s interior design tastes are evolving, especially for bathrooms and kitchens.

“Less is not always more in 2017 as tile choices are as much an architectural statement as an essential surface coating,” she said.

“The new Decoratori Bassanesi collection promises home renovators and interior designers a curation of the lavish and an opportunity to turn their living spaces into the intricate connections of decoration and design that they have long been craving.

“In a high end home, the Italian design lends itself to a sophisticated look that is impossible to imitate or mistake, further adding to its appeal. “[It] enables homeowners to channel the decadent art deco movement with Pott’s Linea range featuring a patterned hexagon tile, or present a polished Neoclassical look through the Luci di Venezia range’s iridescent materials.

Tile Today editor Betty Tanddo with design consultant John Tornese from Beaumont Tiles.

Top: The Decoratori Bassanesi range on show at the The Beaumont Studio in Malvern (VIC). Above: The Luci di Venezia tile is designed to reflect the art of Venice.

“Each tile in the collection, available for both floor and wall applications, carries its own story and allows for added layers to the space’s overall design narrative. As standalone pieces, they are singular and stunning. When combined, they are even stronger.”

The range consists of four distinct styles.

Bonbon: Designed by Navone, this mosaic is a colour bodied porcelain, available in eight colours on a 305 x 305mm sheet. She likens this tile to “hard candies with irregular shapes with pastel colours like old-style sugar candies”.

Trax: This tile comes in two sizes (374 x 749mm and 749 x 749mm), four colours and the option of hard or soft textures. It is an ideal neutral companion to other more decadent tiles in the Decoratori Bassanesi range.

Linea: Designed by Pott, these glazed porcelain tiles come in eight colour combinations, including four metallic, and are 147 x 170mm in size. Configured in tessellating combinations of trapeziums, triangles and parallelograms of contrasting colour shades, he explains that “by using the grout as a starting point, the silhouettes of the patterns do not appear by the outline of the tiles but are being created by the scored groove inside the hexagonal tiles”.

Luci di Venezia: Designed to reflect the art of Venice, this iridescent porcelain tile is available in eight colours and three tile sizes (296 x 594mm, 594 x 594mm and 594 x 1190mm).

The Beaumont Studio is also launching a supporting range of large format tiles, from Italian tile house Cerim.

The company’s Onyx range of glazed porcelain offers five nuances (White, Sand, Cloud, Iron and Shadow) for commercial or residential spaces.

These tiles are available in 10mm thick 297 x 597mm, 597 x 597mm, 297 x 1197mm, 597 x 1197mm. And 797 x 797mm and slab size 797 x 2397mm in the 6mm thickness.

The Decoratori Bassanesi and Cerim collections are available in-store at The Beaumont Studio locations in Malvern (VIC) and Fortitude Valley (QLD).

Tile Today editor Betty Tanddo attended the launch in Malvern and would like to thank John Tornese from The Beaumont Studio who took time out to show and explain the range.

Green council gets new leader The CEO of Frasers Property, Rod Fehring has been appointed chair of the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

Frasers Property Australia is one of the country’s largest diversified property groups, and topped the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) table last year for diversified office, industrial and non-listed funds.

Fehring said, “Almost 1,500 Green Star projects have been certified around Australia – and 38 per cent of the nation’s office space is Green Star certified and over 1.3 million people shop in a Green Star retail centre every day.

“The GBCA’s focus over the next year will be leading the shift to net zero buildings, and to reshaping the way Australians live, work and play in their cities. The GBCA’s board is determined to accelerate market transformation and to set the sustainability agenda throughout our region…”

Fehring is joined by deputy chairs Kylie Rampa, chief executive of Property Australia at Lendlease and John Flecker, CEO, Multiplex Australasia.

The evolution of Labyrinth Labyrinth Tiles is selling at the wholesale level for the first time in 25 years. This follows demand for wider distribution from the market, and should enable the company to expand its market reach.

Labyrinth caters to both commercial and consumer markets. The company is

Top: The entrance to Labyrinth Tiles in Medina (WA).

Above: Labyrinth Tiles featured in kitchen project

currently engaged in producing tiles for airports, shop fronts and several domestic installations. Labyrinth also works with international clients, and has recently completed a commission for a client in the state of Massachusetts in the US. To facilitate this shift to wholesale marketing, the company is seeking to build up a national distributorship through selected tile shops, enabling them to offer the product to a wider range of both consumer and professional clients.

With a higher volume of sales expected, the factory is also expanding.

Increases in volume and types of tiles have been made easier by the use of computer numerically controlled (CNC) routing in the production of moulds.

While this automation is a big help, as a handmade, “low tech” manufacturer, the company has retained a great deal of flexibility, making it easy to meet specific customer requests. The variety of sizes and shapes are very wide, as they are made to order. Labyrinth can work from patterns and dimensions sent via email, accommodating just about all designs.

It offers two main clay body types, one biscuit and one white. The Tiger Lily range is white, very clean, bright and contemporary. The biscuit is an iron bearing body, more antique and lends itself to country homes. They can be used together to create a design dynamic through contrast.

The tiles shown on the website (www. labyrinthtiles.com.au) give a good indication of how they can be used. In particular, it shows how to approach installation so that there is no cutting required. The website also features “The > continues next page

Snappy Tile Range”, which is used for more intricate projects.

The range of tiles from Labyrinth will suit any application where a clay tile can be used. Over the past 25 years, they have been used extensively in waterwalls, splashbacks and floor inlays. The tiles are durable, and easy to lay.

The company’s start in the tile industry was unintentional. It was at first just an offshoot of a pottery business which featured a wide variety of other lines, such as garden pots, exhibition pieces and sculptural pieces. Eventually a need to produce glazed pieces evolved, and further experimentation led to the production of tiles.

This developed into the unique tile products that are made today. Once the company started to create tiles, this product generated such high demand that it eventually took over all of the available production capacity.

Labyrinth’s central values are about hoping that its customers enjoy the beauty of the product, as much as the staff enjoy making the tiles for them.

Floorex has more locations Floor equipment supplier Floorex has added to its list of branches in Chipping Norton (NSW) and in the Melbourne suburb of Clayton. In New Zealand, Floorex has also opened a branch in Auckland to for its New Zealand customers.

According to the company, tilers are expecting to prepare concrete floors to better standards as they discover the benefits of diamond grinding floors. This removes high spots and prepares the surface to get the best possible adhesion.

Using its Meteor 250 and Satellite grinders, tile professionals can work dustfree to prepare concrete and greatly reduce the possibility of poor adhesion. Floorex said inadequate preparation is actually the single most common cause of drummy tiles.

Floorex has expanded its number of branches.

Tile floor plans made easier As designers and architects combine different colours and shapes to create modern interlocking pattern designs, today’s contractor needs efficient tools to work with these interesting materials.

To cater for these demands, the Callidus floor planning software (www. getCallidus.com) has been updated to incorporate more flexible tile layouts. In addition to using standard tile designs, plans can incorporate hexagonal shapes and other irregular shapes. Complex designs can be created and applied over a floor area to show the final layout and generate all the estimating quantities.

TileScript designs are either typed directly into Callidus or through a graphic designer. Many designs can be pre-built using the software and is easy to work with, sais the company.

It provides an online library of pre-assembled grids for users to copy and paste grids into their own Callidus material specification. Once the TileScript grid has been defined, Callidus will use this to generate all the tiles needed to cover the entire floor.

The company claims its latest tools have resulted in a major boost in productivity, increased confidence in estimating quantities and helped attract new customers they are shown exactly how the final floor will appear.

Existing Callidus users can update to the latest version and use the TileScript facility (advanced tile planning module required).

Alternatively, users can test out the software by applying for a 30-day trial account.

Callidus floor planning software can represent tile desigs with irregular shaped elements.

Left: A kitchen renovation makes extensive use of Laminex products to emulate a Scandi style.

Below: The bathroom cabinetry feautres the Laminex Impressions textured surfaces range.

Laminex blends reno styles An original 1920s Victorian home that had not been modified since its construction, has recently undergone a renovation in Camberwell (VIC). Built almost a century ago, retaining the character of the building was key for owner Peter Robinson, who was keen to ensure all remodelling work remained sympathetic to the period features and that original materials were recycled into the design wherever possible.

The discovery of a Laminex benchtop and tabletop installed in the original 1923 kitchen also created an opportunity to reference the design choices made by the previous architect and owner. Robinson was inspired to upgrade the space using Laminex products to emulate a Scandi style that is centred on references to natural materials.

The space blends concrete polished floors and exposed brickwork, with Laminex Impressions textured surfaces in Sublime Teak Riven finish to create the look of timber cabinetry across the front island base, overhead panels and oven surround. Robsinson said, “Green design was a focus on this project and the Impressions range really enabled us to bring the outside in, thanks to its realistic look and feel. The quality of the material also meant that the surface wouldn’t fade or pose any colour change issues in the future, which can be common with some natural timbers.”

The kitchen joinery is complemented by essastone by Laminex in Silica benchtops, along with a contrasting splashback in Metaline Splashbacks and Panels in Nimbus. “Using Metaline offered the same glass-like appearance we were hoping for, while being easier to install and more affordable too,” explains Robinson.

The colour palette is extended throughout the living space and into other rooms of the home to create a feeling of cohesion, with the bathroom cabinetry featuring the same Laminex Impressions textured surfaces in Sublime Teak Riven finish and topped with Laminex Freestyle Surfaces in New Kosiusko for the vanity top.

The vanity panels subtly accent limed timber floors, while the clean white base of Laminex Freestyle Surfaces in New Kosiusko emphasises the paler tones within bold, art deco wall tiles.

NEWS

Providing the right support Sovereign Distributors began operations 12 months ago in Perth (WA) taking on the Impertek brand made in Italy. Its pedestal systems consist of fixed or adjustable height with the option of a self-levelling head. The extensive range of flooring supports from heights of 5mm up to and including 1020mm have a large number of applications in building, construction and landscaping.

Impertek supports are designed to create external paving that is strong and durable. They are suitable for terraces, pool surrounds, in and around water features, walkways on roofs and hanging gardens.

Pedestals can be laid directly on the old pavement, if required, delivering flexibility and ease of installation to update flooring styles. Significant savings can be made on construction costs and delivery times, and any repairs to the waterproofing system are possible without demolition.

The supports for prefabricated flooring can be used with any type of slab or self-supporting tile on a terrace even with exposed waterproofing.

Their function is to ventilate the slab, protect the waterproofing membrane by distributing the load equally over a surface and enable the waterproofing system to be easily inspected for quick repair without overloading the existing slab.

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The circular shape, perforated in some cases, adapts to the floor sub-base even when it is not completely level or flat.

Sovereign Distributors said these supports enable the best solution based on the different type of floor: wood, composite wood, cement, clay, stone, ceramic, marble or granite. It is versatile and complete system to resolve common issues with irregular external surfaces.

The range is also quality certified to ISO9001.

Sovereign has partnered with Roberts Designs International to ensure that Impertek products are readily available in Australia and New Zealand. Established in 1996, Roberts Designs International is a leading distributor of tiling tools and accessories, tile cutting equipment, designer bathroom hardware and accessories, silicone sealants, adhesives and tile sealants. Major brands include ATR, Bucket Glove, Maxisil, Sigma, Barwalt, Ghelfi, Roberts and Siri.

Impertek Pedestal Systems are available through Sovereign Distributors

Pool tiles that stand out Beaumont Tiles design specialist Rachel Gilding has identified a number of emerging trends that can transform pools into a long-lasting style statement. She refers to them as: global fusion, minimalist contemporary and retro vintage. “From the second half of 2017 there will be a transition from the structured Scandinavian style towards global fusion.

This style combines the textured burnish styles of Morocco, with the forest edge of Madagascar and a functional Australian twist in a self-curated style of the well-travelled.

“Think an incredible hierarchy of elements spanning handwoven cloth textures, romantic bold patterns, rich colour pallets of deep blues, crimson, and bronze, contrasted with pops of sparkle and warm ambient lights. Global fusion is all about the indoors meeting the outdoors in a rich expression of exotic far-away lands and bohemian ideals,” she explains Part of the minimalist contemporary style, Whitewash is a pure, neutral play on the senses. Gilding said, “Whitewash is all about subtle asymmetrical statements within the white colour spectrum, coupled with conscious decisions to include layers of interest to create spaces that are timeless and elegant,” said Gilding.

Vintage has also been growing in popularity since 2015 with no hint of slowing down. It is all about taking something old and giving it a modern

twist and new lease on life. Retro vintage is the latest evolution of this trend and it is a balance of innovative style meets midcentury “cool” to create an interactive piece of art.

Pool areas are a great blank canvas to incorporate into this style. Sandstone pavers poolside, such as Travertine Almond with aqua blue mosaics like Iris Azur Lustre are a classic combination, or for a statement supplement the blue tile for Mosaic Glass Hexa Nero.

Top: Mosaic Glass BT Blue Pearl Mix within the pool can create an invitation to “stop by”, according to Beaumont Tiles. Above: Mosaic Glass Pierre White tiles from Beaumont Tiles.

CLEAR SOFTWARE TURNS 10 Clear Software, creator of ClearTile that is purpose-built for the tile industry, recently had its 10th anniversary. It had a party to celebrate this milestone and used the opportunity to release the company’s new logo and corporate colours.

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There have also been some internal changes with Nigel Turner, who has been with Clear Software for over 12 years, has been appointed operations manager.

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The company continues to develop more functionality into its software products and would like to thank and acknowledge its clients for their support over the last ten years.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS NZ keeps Hundertwasser work alive

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The plan is to have several galleries and work by Hundertwasser on display. It will also have Maori art gallery, described as the country’s first dedicated to Maori fine art. Once completed, the Art Centre is expected to pump millions of dollars into the region’s economy and attract more than 200,000 visitors every year.

As part of the fund-raising effort, a Hundertwasser concept building called “Te Kakano” or “Seed” was constructed.

Like all of Hundertwasser’s designs, it uses a large number of hand glazed tiles and the floors were tiled with terracotta tiles.

Vienna-born Hundertwasser – adopted New Zealand as his new home after visiting the country during an exhibition of his work there in 1973.

The artist went on to gain New Zealand citizenship and bought land in the Bay of Islands. It became an ideal place to explore his views on man’s interaction with the natural environment and the need to challenge boundaries in art and architecture.

Ceramics on show in China The 30th edition of the China International Ceramic & Bathroom Fair (CeramBath) will be held in Foshan from 18-21 October.

It is regarded as one of the largest, reliable and most influential ceramic and bathroom exhibitions in China, according to event organiser Foshan China Ceramics City Group.

Its aim to is welcome international with good products, latest design trends and credible suppliers. Approximately 750 exhibitors on an area spanning

Cinajus 51 Clear Software 37 Colortile 9 Efflock 31 Europe Imports

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Everstone

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Foshan China Ceramics

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Johnson Tiles 11 Mapei 35 Metro Tiles

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National Ceramics

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Parex Group (Davco)

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An ambitious plan to construct an Art Centre that is described as the world’s last building by Austrian painter and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser has reached its NZD21 million funding target and is due to be completed by 2019.

Hundertwasser is best known for designing the public toilets located on the main street of Kawakawa on New Zealand’s North Island. It attracts almost a million visitors a year who come to admire the unique tile design.

Common themes of Hundertwasser’s designs was the rejection of the straight line “the devil’s tool” and the use of bright colours and organic forms. His use of irregular forms in his designs often featured undulating floors (“an uneven floor is a melody to the feet”).

Hundertwasser started working on the Art Centre project before he died in 2000. It is being revived thanks to the artist’s original designs and sketches and a community-led fundraising effort, led by the Prosper Northland Trust.

Construction expected to start before the end of 2017.

Australian Tile Council

Bostik 33 Top: A concept building called “Te Kakano” showcases Hundertwasser architectural style. These tiles were made by New Zealand company, Middle Earth Tiles, a specialist manufacturer of terracotta tiles and hand glazed tiles. Above: The Kawakawa Toilet designed by Hundertwasser is a well-known New Zealand landmark

Most of the team at Clear Software came together to celebrate its 10th birthday. From l-r: Christine Marsden, Normida O’Neill, Nigel Turner, Benjamin French, Jillian Bethune, Ian MacMaster, Gillian Gray, Debbie Davis, Christopher Durkin, Matt Rubb, Judy Miles, Gordon MacMaster and Kim MacMaster.

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www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #94 | 49

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370,000sqm are expected at the upcoming CeramBath Established 15 years ago, CeramBath has attracted visitors of over 2 million people, creating an important industry platform for the China ceramics market. Over 2500 ceramic and sanitary ware trading companies are based in Foshan.

Every year, leading manufacturers and suppliers choose to launch its products at CeramBath, making use of the large number of categories of ceramic and bathroom products.

Attendees to the trade show include distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, designers, builders and real estate developers. A survey conducted following the 29th CeramBath in April 2017 indicated that 38% of all visitors have visited

TILE TODAY the fair three times or more. Forty-two per cent visited the fair for the first time, most of who expressed they are pleasantly surprised to find so many new design and suppliers.

Ninety two percent of those surveyed said they would return to the next show in October.

Visit the website: en.cerambath.org.

Proudly produced and printed in Australia ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD ABN: 27 006 876 419 PO BOX 800, Templestowe, Victoria, Australia 3106 Ph: + 61 3 9890 0815 Fax: + 61 3 9890 0087 Email: info@elitepublishing.com.au Website: www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au www.elitepublishing.com.au PUBLISHER Vicky Cammiade vicky.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au EDITOR Betty Tanddo betty.tanddo@elitepublishing.com.au CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Anthony Stock anthony.stock@elitepublishing.com.au

CeramBath is regarded as one of the largest, reliable and most influential ceramic and bathroom exhibitions in China.

INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT Joe Simpson joe.simpson@elitepublishing.com.au MACHINERY EDITOR Philip Ashley philipneilashley@yahoo.com.au

< continued from p. 34

4. The Rai-fix system combines the use of ceramic tile adhesive with a clip (attached to the façade) and a hook (located in the back of the tile)

handling and installation; • design potential thanks to a wide variety of formats; and • uniform joint width.

An increasing number of facades clad with Buchtal systems can be found around Australia particularly in Sydney where Ceramic Eco Façade Systems Australasia (Ceramic Echo) have completed numerous projects including the Ivy building in Surry Hills, Sydney. (Photo 3) Inevitably these systems are more expensive than the cladding selected for use at Grenfell Tower, but according to Gary Jones of Ceramic Eco, there has not been a single tile removed from any of the numerous projects he has supervised. The ceramic material is superior when it comes to fire resistance.

The installation system is also flexible because the mechanically fixed products can 50 | TILE TODAY #94 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

safely be removed and replaced. A building can be given a complete facelift in terms of colour without making any structural changes.

The Rai-fix system is manufactured in Italy by Raimondi and exclusively distributed in Australia by B.A.T. Trims. This system features a combination of mechanical and adhesive installation techniques. It includes attachment of a plate to the substrate, (photo 4) which provides a location for a clip attached to the rear of a tile to securely locate. The tiles are adhered with adhesive; the mechanically fixed clip and plate ensure that any tile which fails cannot fall to the ground. This system includes a device which creates the slot on the rear of the tile. (Photo 5). ■

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Trudi Woodward trudi.woodward@elitepublishing.com.au CIRCULATION MANAGER Georgia Gilmour georgia.gilmour@elitepublishing.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN Uber Creative – Annette Epifanidis Mobile: 0416 087 412 annette@ubercreative.com.au www.ubercreative.com.au PRODUCTION For artwork and production enquiries please email: production@elitepublishing.com.au INFOTILE WEBSITE COORDINATOR Stephanie Thompson 0407 873 370 stephanie@grafixaction.com.au PRE-PRESS Prominent Digital PRINTED BY Prominent Press Pty Ltd

From Tony Stock

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD PUBLISHERS OF: Flooring Magazine, Discovering Stone Magazine, Surfaces & Finishes Magazine, TileToday Magazine, Supplier Magazine and FB Magazine.

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5. Rai-fix includes a device which creates a slot in the back of the tile which houses its hooks that attach to the wall. Adhesive is applied to the substrate in the normal manner. Additional adhesive can be backbuttered on to the back of the tile.

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, transmitted or copied in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without the express prior written consent of Elite Publishing Co Pty Ltd. Viewpoints, opinions, claims, etc expressed in articles appearing in this publication are those of the authors. The Publishers accept no responsibility for the information supplied or for claims made by companies or their representatives regarding product performance, etc or for any errors, omissions, misplacement, alterations, or any subsequent changes, or for any consequences of reliance on this information or this publication.

Please note: Shade variation is an inherent feature of tile production. The Publisher is not liable for any discrepancy between images published in Tile Today and actual products.

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