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Manual of Living Culture

V & B Fliesen GmbH

"The multitude which is not brought to act as a unity, is confusion.

That unity which has not its origin in the multitude is tyranny."

Blaise Pascal, (1623-1662), French philosopher and scientist

The diversity of design, the strengths of ceramics: in combination, both fascinating and inspiring.

This manual provides useful information on the natural material from which tiles are produced, its history, its material properties, and the processes for its use.

It regards tiles not in isolation, but in their functionality, their technical benefits, and the scope that they offer for design.

As such, tiles are an indispensable element of interior culture at Villeroy & Boch.

With the compliments of the V & B Fliesen GmbH Marketing Team.

Sustainable values Not only do Villeroy & Boch ceramic tiles exhibit outstanding aesthetic and functional properties, they also embody values which are becoming increasingly important for all of us.

The systematic development of sustainable concepts for the creation of private and public interior culture is fundamental to our designs, our work, and our corporate philosophy.

We consider it important to use production and disposal solutions which are gentle on the environment and conserve natural resources to the greatest extent possible. Through our membership of and active involvement in European technical committees, we ensure that technology is governed by environmentally sound principles.

The fundamental quality principles also contribute to ecological thinking and action The responsible use and handling of energy, emissions, raw materials and production methods helps to safeguard our planet's future – but so does the durability and service life of products.

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For many years, our brand has been synonymous internationally with a high quality standard. Our designs are not driven by short-term fads but are based on long-term and timeless furnishing and style guidelines.

For this reason, our products are characterized by both long product cycles and very high value retention.

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Contents

1 The history of the tile

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2 Materials and manufacture

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3 Designing

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4 The Villeroy & Boch ARTEFACTUR

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5 The advantages of ceramic coverings

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6 Laying

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7 Cleaning and care

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8 Commitment to the environment

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9 A to Z of tiles

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The history of the tile The work on the tomb was almost over – and then disaster struck. One time too many, the workers had failed to receive their monthly rations. It marked the beginning of the first documented strike in history: in 1159 BC, in the 29th year of the reign of Ramses III, in the Egyptian village of Deir el-Medina.

Payment was made in the form of grain rations: an ordinary worker received 150 kg of spelt and 56 kg of barley each month. This payment in kind enabled them to feed their families and to work their own fields.

It was probably King Ramses III himself who disrupted this arrangement: his tomb in the Nile Delta was the construction site affected by the strike.

From there, he was to continue to reign, over the realm of the gods, following his death. The tomb would still be drawing admiring looks over 3,000 years later.

Besides numerous ceramics and paintings, its wall tiles – in good condition even today – and their turquoise glaze are impressive.1 Ceramics are among the oldest of technologies, and 10

as such yield a fascinating history and countless anecdotes. Ceramics and pottery were used in antiquity in all four corners of the earth. Where they were first made and by whom remains unclear. Was it in Japan, where vessels have been found that are some 13,000 years old?

Or perhaps China, where even older ceramics have been found in a stone-age cave, with an estimated age of approximately 18,000 years?

Mesopotamia has yielded many ceramics, decorated and still in good condition, and around 9,000 years old. In the "cradle of civilization", all essential achievements of antiquity were already to be found. The beauty of the vessels is impressive even today. Potters were already decorating the clay with geometric lines, engravings and colours.

Ceramics underwent a further development with the discovery of green and turquoise glazes and with the firing of bricks in works in Egypt and Mesopotamia.

These bricks, which also included those in Ramses' tomb, are the direct precursors of modern wall tiles.

Over the centuries, the Islamic art of tiling reached and eventually spread through Europe, after arriving via Turkey and the Balkans, and via North Africa and Spain. In Europe, tiles came to be used largely indoors. In 12th and 13th-century England, monasteries such as those at Newbottle, Byland, 11

Meaux and Melrose were tiled magnificently, as was Canterbury Cathedral. Flemish artists were often involved in the design of tiles in England.

In Germany, clay tiles with coloured glazing are still preserved, notably in the sacristy of St. Elizabeth's Church in Marburg, and the Carolingian terracotta reliefs in Kellm端nz and in the imperial palace at Ulm2.

The decorative techniques used during that period originated primarily in China and the orient. It was however from the unassuming Dutch town of Delft, in the 16th and 17th centuries, that the ceramic tile spread throughout Europe.

The Couven Museum in Aachen presents a crosssection of Dutch tile art. Over 6,000 tiles take everything imaginable as their theme: from Antwerp faience to the manganese-purple tiles of Rotterdam and mass-produced Frisian tileware.

In the heyday of European ceramics during the 18th century, the ironfounder Francois Boch established a pottery in Audun-le-Tiche (Lorraine), in 1748.

Boch could hardly have imagined at that time how important this step would be for the development of ceramics in Europe. Nor for that matter could Eugen von Boch, who approximately 100 years later was fascinated by an archaeological discovery.

In 1852, a well-preserved mosaic floor was discovered in a Roman villa at Nennig, on the Mosel near Mettlach and Merzig. Von Boch wrote to a 12

friend, telling him of his new business idea: "I am considering manufacturing something, on floors, in the style of the Roman mosaic. We may be able to find a method of producing it cheaply and attractively."3 With the establishment of a tile factory in Mettlach (Saarland), Villeroy & Boch began the industrial manufacture of tiles in 1869. From this location, "Mettlach tiles" found their way into private and public buildings alike throughout Europe. They can still be seen today, virtually unchanged, in Aachen Cathedral, Frankfurt's Old Opera House, Cologne Cathedral, and the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.

During the Art Nouveau period, ceramic tiling was a significant aspect of interior design. The former artists' colony on the Mathildenhรถhe in Darmstadt, for instance, is well worth a visit.

Art Nouveau lovers should not miss the world's most beautiful dairy shop (according to the Guinness Book of Records), the former business of the Pfund dairy in Dresden. The shop, over 100 years old and fitted out with Villeroy & Boch tiles, served directly as the model for a bistro at Villeroy & Boch's information centre in Mettlach.

The new tiles were modelled on their historical counterparts. Mosaics, Art Nouveau tiles and inlaid, multicoloured porcelain stoneware are still being 13

made by hand in the "ARTEFACTUR", a small manufactory owned by V & B Fliesen GmbH .

Owing to the far higher physical strength of modern tiles, new applications are constantly being found for ceramics. Tiles are valued in modern architecture for their functional properties, and for their aesthetic diversity and the scope which they offer for design.

The most recent development of ceramic tiles is characterized by technical progress. In particular, further developments in glazing and design have resulted in both exceptionally aesthetic innovations and custom applications.

1 Source: Wikipedia. The events have been preserved on a papyrus which is currently held at the Egizio di Torino museum under inventory number p1880.

2 See also: R. Forrer, Geschichte der europäischen Fliesenkeramik vom Mittelalter bis zum Jahre 1900.

3 "Villeroy & Boch – ein Vierteljahrtausend europäische Industriegeschichte 1748 – 1998", Villeroy & Boch Aktiengesellschaft, Mettlach, 1998.

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Materials and manufacture The materials Ceramic is an inorganic, non-metallic material. Like the earth’s crust, it mainly consists of the elements silicon, aluminium and oxygen. In ceramic as in nature, these elements occur in the form of siliceous minerals or crystalline compounds.

Ceramic raw materials are divided into three groups, namely hard materials, soft materials and aggregates.

The most important hard materials are quartz and feldspar.

Quartz acts as skeleton material.

Feldspars are natural aluminium silicates that are comparable with granite. The mineral crystals of the feldspars contain lithium, sodium and potassium alkalis, as well as the alkaline earth metals, calcium and magnesium; these reduce the melting point from 1600 ° C to approx. 1000 ° C. In ceramic manufacture, this is why feldspars are also referred to as fluxing agents.

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The most important soft materials include clays and kaolins.

The clays consist of a mixture of silicate materials mainly formed by the weathering of the earth’s crust.

Unlike hard materials, clay minerals are malleable and easy to form.

Kaolins have a similar structure to clays but consist of a single sediment mineral, namely kaolinite.

They are also malleable and are often white when fired.

The most common additives, the third group of ceramic raw materials, are limestone, dolomite and talc.

In the ceramic mass, these also reduce the melting point and thus the firing temperature.

On the basis of their manufacture and properties, ceramics are categorised as either coarse ceramics or fine ceramics.

Clinkers, bricks and pottery, all of which essentially consist of clays and sands, are the most important products made from coarse ceramic.

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The main products made from fine ceramic are: • Porcelain, bone china, vitreous china and nonvitreous crockery • Vitreous china sanitary porcelain • Nonvitreous, vitreous and porcelain stoneware tiles • Nonvitreous and vitreous decorative ceramics Fine ceramic is mainly made from light-firing clays, kaolins, quartz and the above-mentioned additives.

In the case of fine ceramic tiles, there is a differentiation between the material groups nonvitreous, vitreous and porcelain stoneware.

Nonvitreous ware has a porosity of up to 20% and is used in wall tiles.

Nonvitreous tiles from Villeroy & Boch are manufactured in compliance with DIN EN 14411, Group BIII (water absorption E > 10%).

Nonvitreous is generally glazed to create a hygienic surface that is UV-resistant, dirt-repellent and resistant to standard household chemicals.

It is mainly manufactured using clays, kaolins, quartz sand and limestone. The firing temperature is 1000 to 1100 ° C. Nonvitreous tiles have particularly small dimensional tolerances and a low specific weight, making 18

them particularly suitable as wall tiles. They are also easy to drill, cut, etc.

Vitreous has a porosity of less than 3%. Villeroy & Boch manufactures it as glazed vitreous in compliance with DIN EN 14411, Group BIb (water absorption 0.5 < E â&#x2030;¤ 3%) and as vilbostone porcelain stoneware in compliance with DIN EN 14411, Group BIa (water absorption E â&#x2030;¤ 0.5%).

Vitreous and porcelain stoneware can be glazed or unglazed.

They are produced using clays, quartz sands and feldspars. When fired, the silicate materials partially melt. This creates a dense structure that solidifies on cooling to produce the glass phase. The glass phase can make up as much as 40% of the ceramic structure.

Vitreous tiles are much more resistant to wear and chemical loads than nonvitreous tiles.

Vitreous tiles are also frost-resistant and are thus suitable for outdoor use.

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vilbostone porcelain stoneware from Villeroy & Boch is particularly high density and has a porosity of less than 0.5 %.

In addition to fine ceramic nonvitreous and vitreous tiles, another product group is the so-called split tile or extruded tile.

These are made using coarse-ceramic manufacturing techniques. According to their properties, they are assigned to the floor-tile group.

The name split tile is derived from the process of extruding a double tile, which is then dried, fired and subsequently split.

Wall and floor tiles are complemented by so-called trims that are generally three-dimensional and can be made of either nonvitreous, vitreous or porcelain stoneware.

They are used as design and additional elements in ceramic wall and floor coverings, for example, for corners and edges.

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Manufacture There are six main stages in the manufacture of ceramic tiles: 1. Preparation of the raw material and ceramic mass 2. Forming 3. Drying 4. Glazing and decorating glazed tiles 5. Firing 6. Sorting and packaging There is also a decorative third firing, which involves decorating and again firing the tiles in an additional step.

During preparation, the raw materials are mixed according to specific recipes. The resulting mixture is suspended in water to form a so-called slurry and then finely ground and homogenised in a ball mill.

In a spray dryer, the slurry is then converted into a ready-to-press granulate (also known as moulding compound) for tile production. During the spraydrying process, the slurry is sprayed into the reactor vessel. Small droplets form, which are dried by a counterflow of hot gas. During this process, most of the slurry water evaporates. The mass thus obtained has a moisture content of just 6 - 7 percent by weight. After intermediate storage, it is processed in storage silos in the next manufacturing stage, namely forming.

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There are three different methods of forming ceramic: 1. Pressing 2. Casting 3. Plastic forming The most common method of forming tiles is pressing or dry-pressing. During this process, the mass is pressed under high pressure in an automatic press to form the so-called raw tile. After pressing, the raw tile contains approx. 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6% moisture; it is then dried to leave a residual moisture of less than 0.5%. This increases the strength of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;blanksâ&#x20AC;?, as they are known in the trade, and they are ready for the subsequent manufacturing stages, such as glazing, decorating and firing.

Casting is used for the production of complex articles, such as sanitaryware parts or hollow crockery, as well as for tile trims with a pronounced relief structure. As the name suggests, the slurry is poured into single or multiple-part plaster moulds.

After about 80 minutes, as a result of the diffusion of water, an 8 - 12 mm tile body forms on the walls of the mould; this is removed from the mould for further processing.

Plastic forming is the original forming method used in ceramic production. It is used in the production 22

of crockery and ceramic artworks to create rotationally symmetrical parts, for example, on a potterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wheel.

Forming with a plastic mass is the most common method and is also used for producing split tiles.

For split tiles, the plastic mass is pressed through the specially shaped nozzles of a horizontal press to form an endless clay column. This column has the same cross-section as the tile width and twice the tile thickness. After leaving the extruder, the column is cut to length and dried.

This double tile is then fired and susequently split in the middle, hence the name split tile.

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Unglazed tiles are now fired but glazed tiles now have to be dried, glazed and decorated before firing.

The glaze is a special glass made of pre-melted glass granulates, so-called frits, coloured bodies made of metal oxides and compounds, and additives, such as chalk and talc, etc.

The glaze is applied in special glazing and pressing lines. Depending on the desired surface effect of the tiles, the glaze is applied using a bell, jet, spray gun or centrifuge. Different ceramic effects can be achieved via the multiple application of different coloured glazes.

When the layer of glaze has dried, the tile can be additionally printed with a printing paste that is prepared in a similar manner to a glaze. There are two different printing methods: screen printing using a flat screen and rotary printing, also known as cylinder printing, using a screen and silicon cylinder.

With screen printing, the printing pastes are pressed with a squeegee through a fine copper or nylon screen onto the tile below.

With rotary printing, the printing paste is first spread onto an impression cylinder that has been engraved with the desired dĂŠcor. The engraved 24

impression cylinder then continuously applies the printing paste to the tiles below.

The next stage in the manufacturing process is firing. As described above, unglazed tiles are fired in roller kilns immediately after forming and drying.

A “carpet” of tiles is transported through the kiln on a roller conveyor. The throughput times range between 30 and 60 minutes. The tiles are fired according to an exact time- temperature curve.

Firing converts the pressed raw materials into new minerals. To some extent, they melt and crystallise into a solid, dense structure.

The porosity is reduced from approx. 10% in the raw tile to approx. 0.5% in the fired tile, also known as the tile body.

Glazed and printed tiles are also fired in exactly the same way and the time temperature curves are adjusted in accordance with the respective material.

The firing temperature is approx. 1140ºC for nonvitreous and approx. 1200ºC for vitreous and porcelain stoneware. As with unglazed tiles, a tile body is formed.

With glazed vitreous, it has a porosity of 0 - 3% and, with vitreous, 15 - 20%. At less than 0.5%, porcelain stoneware has the lowest porosity.

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At the same time as the tile body, the raw glaze layer is converted into a glaze during the melting process. During this melting phase, the glaze fuses with the tile body.

Nonvitreous tiles usually undergo a second firing in addition to the single firing described above.

With the second firing method, the pressed nonvitreous tile is dried and then fired in a roller kiln at 1400ºC. This produces the biscuit. The biscuit is an unglazed porous tile that is much stronger then the dry-pressed raw tile. The biscuit is then decorated as described above and fired for a second time.

Thanks to its higher strength, the biscuit is able to withstand much greater stress during glazing and decoration and this is particularly advantageous with multiple applications. In addition, during the second firing, the so-called glost firing, only the glaze and the décor are fired and not the tile body; this improves the quality of the glaze and the décor.

After the first or second firing, high-quality décor tiles undergo a further production stage, the decorative third firing.

The fired, glazed tile is decorated again in printing lines equipped with various printing units. Up to twenty different colours can be applied.

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Another method is the application of transfers that are fused with the tile body during firing.

A distinction is made between the inglaze and onglaze decoration methods.

Hand painting offers the highest quality decoration but this method is only used rarely in modern tile production.

Tiles decorated in this way are again fired in the so-called décor firing process at 800ºC to 900ºC. This firing only serves to fuse the décor applied to the glaze. It does not affect the tile body or the glaze.

The undersides of tiles are the contact surfaces for the setting and laying mortar or adhesive and have a corresponding relief and embossed structure.

Brand manufacturers such as Villeroy & Boch also stamp the undersides of the tiles.

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Designing with tiles Dolly may never have existed at all. The Scottish Blackface sheep that was born in 1996 as the result of a cloning process. It may not (yet) have been possible to make individual chromosomes in the cell nucleus visible since certain synthetic colorants were required to do this. The prerequisites for cloning may not have been in place and gene therapy might still be in its infancy were it not for the fact that, 140 years ago, the then 18-year-old William Perkin discovered the wonderful colour â&#x20AC;&#x153;mauveâ&#x20AC;? whilst experimenting with the waste product, coal tar. In the search for a synthetic quinine to alleviate bouts of fever caused by malaria, he came across the chemical colour quite by chance, and this discovery then went on to revolutionise the textile industry.

Until then, colorants had been made of natural raw materials, such as plants or insects â&#x20AC;&#x201C; production was complex and expensive.

Due to the richness of their appearance, some colours, such as purple, obtained from the dog whelk, were the exclusive preserve of a few aristocratic rulers. The stately symbolism of dark red has 38

endured over the centuries – today, this colour is still associated with a timeless high quality.

For people, colour is what we perceive. This is possible thanks to the receptors found on the retina of the eye, which enable us to distinguish between light and dark. However, it’s a well known fact that all cats are grey in the dark. It’s only with the addition of light that we can perceive the rich colour diversity of our environment – and also of cats.

Every colour also has a symbolic meaning that can differ greatly from one culture to another. In some countries, white is the colour of mourning, whereas, in others, black takes on these connotations. Modern alternative medicine also recognises the power of colours and uses them therapeutically.

Yellow is reminiscent of the sun and is cheerful.

Red and orange influence our feeling of warmth and are generally believed to be activating. “To see red” is no coincidence but refers to an inner state of heightened tension.

On the other hand, blue is an “intellectual colour”, but also expresses a lot of freshness and openness.

We are reminded of the sea and a cloudless sky.

In Central European culture, green is associated with forests and fields – we can almost smell the aromatic air.

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In architecture, colour is a design medium that, in terms of human perception, generally dominates form. Here, colours “speak” – they can be shrill or quiet, harmonise or evoke physically perceptible dissonances.

However, in nature, colours are always harmonious, as described many years ago by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in his scientific research, which forms the basis for every colour philosophy.

Certain rules apply when using colours in interior design and knowing these rules also makes it much easier to work with ceramic tiles.

As described above, no colour can be viewed in isolation. Colours change depending on the lighting conditions, such warm or cold artificial light or daylight.

A bright red in daylight changes to an orange-red in warm artificial light. Even white, the ever popular colour for bathrooms, changes to a light cream or grey – this is also influenced by the surrounding colours.

The natural environment also affects our perception of colours. If we were to spend any amount of time at the North Pole, we’d soon see that snow white is full of different colours. This is why Eskimos have more than 200 different names for white.

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As a rule: colour dominates form. If we take a brief look at a landscape, room or photo, when asked afterwards about what we saw, we are most likely to remember the dominant colours.

The system of the four seasons The right combination of colours creates the overall harmonious impression of a room or object.

A proven principle of classification is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;four-seasons systemâ&#x20AC;?. The colour palette is divided into four categories.

Summer colours have a gentle, milky character.

Pure, clear colours are assigned to the winter type.

The heavy, warm colour nuances are referred to as being autumnal.

Spring stands for the subtle tones.

This does not mean that only gentle colours are allowed in summer and only clear colours in winter.

The names of the seasons shed light on the system.

Most people have a natural feel for colour. However, if they are uncertain, the seasons systems is very useful.

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Light determines the colour hue The human eye can perceive about 10 million colour nuances. Light influences the impression of colour that the observer obtains from the object. Light also determines the colour effect of tiles and furnishings. In a showroom, a colour often appears different from the way it looks later in private and commercial rooms. One possibility is to look at the tile in question in different light situations (daylight, warm and cold artificial light, neon light).

The colour wheel Primary colours are blue, red and gold. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Primaryâ&#x20AC;? means that they can be used to mix all other colours apart from white.

Secondary colours mixed from two equal parts of primary colours are orange (red and yellow), green (yellow and blue) and violet (blue and red).

White is used to lighten pure colours; we talk about the colour brightness. In the printing industry, colours are generally lightened in 10% steps (e.g. 90% red, 80% red, etc.).

In contrast, the colour saturation describes the degree of purity of the colour, for example, a clear red (100% red) that has not been lightened.

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Complementary colours are opposite one another in the colour wheel. They form pairs of opposites that are attractive from a design perspective.

Mixing the complementary colours together produces black.

Contrasts between light and dark, warm (e.g. red/orange) and cold (blue/violet) tones influence the room design, as does the amount of the respective colour in the room.

If colour gradations in relation to the level of brightness are used, the lightest colour appears to be the furthest away. This also corresponds to the way in which we are used to seeing things, since things that are closer to us appear in a higher contrast light.

Favourite colours As the design of a room has to appeal to the people who live in it, it is important to know your favourite colours. This, too, differs greatly from one culture to another.

For example, whereas orange takes a back seat for the Germans, this colour is very popular in the Netherlands, where it symbolises the royal family.

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Colour trends Colours in the living and bathroom area are subject to long-term trends that come and go in waves.

Colours in interior design have to be seen in the longer term than the fashionable colours of the textile industry (women’s and menswear).

Thanks to chemical colours and a never-ending supply of new possibilities, today’s world is extremely colourful.

However, this was not the case in William Perkins’ day. It was the fashion industry and society ladies who enabled his colour mauve, and consequently also synthetic colours, to make the breakthrough.

Queen Victoria and Empress Eugenie no less are said to have been the first ladies in the world to wear mauve coloured velvet and satin.

Consequently, mauve became all the rage.

The colour is steeped in legend. It’s said to be the first colour to have been produced synthetically.

However, this is just make-believe.

In reality, it is a colour with which people liked to surround themselves thousands of years ago. A colour that was loved and revered as the colour of the gods, a symbol for the solar system.

The only “true colour” that cannot be produced synthetically is gold; only real gold can give the colour its inimitable shimmer.

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Tiles are an integral element Tiles cannot be removed from the design environment and viewed in isolation. They are an integrated part of the bathroom or living area and are crucial for the concept and harmony of the room as a whole.

The format influences the look of the covering As the tile is a so-called â&#x20AC;&#x153;semi-finished productâ&#x20AC;? and only becomes a finished covering when laid professionally, the extent to which the format and the resulting number of joints in a surface influence the optical effect cannot be underestimated.

Large format tiles create a feeling of space Large format tiles have a relatively small number of joints and this means that the material effect is clearer than when using smaller formats where the joint can act as additional design element.

The octagon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a format rich in tradition Combined with inserts, for example, the octagon is a classical format in country-house kitchens and rooms. Here, the floor covering makes an independent statement that, although it can be discreet with the colour-coded design of the individual elements, also creates a greater visual impact than square and rectangular tiles.

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The octagon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a format rich in tradition Combined with inserts, for example, the octagon is a classical format in country-house kitchens and rooms. Here, the floor covering makes an independent statement that, although it can be discreet with the colour-coded design of the individual elements, also creates a greater visual impact than square and rectangular tiles.

Individuality by combining formats The prerequisite for combining formats is not just the design of the tile itself but also its modularity; this ensures that the different formats within a module (e.g. 10 cm module) are compatible and can be combined without offset joints.

With combinations of different formats and variations in the direction in which the tiles are laid, the modularity of all elements is important. The dimensions of the tiles, such as length, width and thickness, have to be compatible.

The joint pattern creates its own effect The more unusual the format, the greater the effect of the joint pattern. In this case, the width and colour of the joint play influence the effect of the covering. A recommended joint width is specified in the tiling standards. With a side length of up to 150 mm, allow for a 2 mm joint.

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With a side length of more than 150 mm, allow for a joint of 2 to 8 mm (DIN 18 157 part 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3).

Calibrated tiles (see glossary) can be laid with very narrow joints.

There are no restrictions in terms of the colour of the joint. With nonvitreous tiles and unglazed porcelain stoneware tiles, the behaviour of the coloured jointing compound has to be taken into account. The instructions of the manufacturer of the jointing compound must be observed.

Cement-based jointing compounds have the functional task of protecting the covering against water penetration.

Furthermore, so-called expansion joints (generally silicon-based) are important so that the tile covering can compensate for natural stresses.

Rules of thumb for colour design A couple of rules of thumb also apply for colours and their brightness: whilst dark tiles make the room look smaller, light tiles help to make the room look larger.

One wall and two colours When working with two colours on large areas of a wall, it should be noted that dark colours appear â&#x20AC;&#x153;heavierâ&#x20AC;? and move into the foreground. Light colours appear more distant.

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Changing proportions with borders, décors and mouldings Borders, décors and mouldings, such as beading, make a visual impact on the proportions of a room.

In a room with a low ceiling height, several rows of border tiles laid vertically make the room appear higher, whilst border tiles laid horizontally make the room appear wider.

Contrasts divide the room Strongly contrasting colours require design confidence. White is often the base colour and further colours are added as contrast.

Corners For the aesthetic design of corners that seem to jump out, Villeroy & Boch offers ceramic beading systems or trim systems (see “PRO ARCHITECTURA SINUS trim system” and “Ceramic beading system” in www.villeroy-boch.com/professionals).

20% of glazed nonvitreous tiles and vilbostone porcelain stoneware tiles are produced with two overglazed edges, thus offering another aesthetic solution.

As unglazed vilbostone porcelain stoneware tiles have full-body colouring, the edge has the same colour quality as the top side.

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Tiles and wood Ceramic tiles and wood are natural materials and generally create a harmonious impression when used in combination. In addition to the surface effect, the colour shades of the ceramic and the wood are also crucial for creating a sense of balance. Samples help to make the right decision before laying.

Tiles and metal Today, ceramic tiles are also offered with metalliceffect surfaces. These tiles are available in a wide variety of different colours and surface variants, which means that they are at home in every furnishing style. Colours are also crucial for the harmony of the room. Whilst gold tones harmonise with warm colours, silver and platinum tones are best combined with cooler colours.

Tiles and fabrics The fascination lies not only in creating harmonious colours and contrasts but also in surface contrasts.

A coarse, simple fabric with a smooth, glossy tile.

Silk with a tile with a stone structure, a shimmering velvet with a cement-look tile.

Taking account of different care requirements When combining different materials, such as ceramic and wood, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to observe the different 49

care requirements. Care products for wood can attack sensitive décors with precious metal plating.

So it’s important to note the care instructions of a cleaning agent. You will find some recommendations in chapter 6 “Cleaning and care”.

Brochures are a valuable source of information Many of our brochures are a valuable source of information. When selecting the fabrics and decorative elements you see in the living rooms, bathrooms and kitchens featured in our brochures, we work with experienced stylists and interior designers. So our photos not only present the products themselves but also include design ideas for the room as a whole.

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The Villeroy & Boch ARTEFACTUR Apart from producing high-quality, serial room concepts, Villeroy & Boch Tiles has always been a purveyor of individual designs and mosaic art, too.

The Villeroy & Boch ARTEFACTUR is one of only a small number of specialised workshops worldwide producing one-off items for private and public premises, outside areas and swimming pools.

The creative people at ARTEFACTUR work on their own designs or according to specifications provided by architects, designers, restorers and customers from all over the world.

Tiles are printed with the most diverse motifs to produce wall and floor coverings in every conceivable size and look. Three-dimensional forms are specially fashioned to create reliefs and mouldings.

New mosaics are developed or classic mosaics are faithfully recreated. Hand painting does justice to the special artistic standards of these works.

The ARTEFACTUR is the right address for anyone seeking to create something unique â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it in the form of individual interior design or the restoration of an old tiled surface.

Further information is available at artefactur@vbfliesen.com and www.artefactur-4me.com.

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5

The advantages of ceramic coverings Tiles don’t burn. Falling cigarette ash that causes lasting damage to some floor coverings does not leave a trace on a ceramic tile.

Tiles are anti-static. Unlike many other coverings, they do not become electrically charged when walking over them or as a result of friction. So you won’t feel a little unpleasant spark when you touch the tap. Apart from the hygiene advantages, the anti-static property is one reason why special, electrically conductive tiles are used in operating theatres.

Tiles are not harmful to health. The surface of ceramic tiles, whether glazed or unglazed, is very dense. Microbes, mites and other microorganisms that cause a large number of allergies don’t stand a chance when ceramic is cleaned in the normal way.

Tiles are thus medically recommended.

Tiles are hygienic and easy to clean (see chapter 6 “Cleaning and care”).

This is not the only reason why tiles are environmentally friendly. They can also be disposed of as 62

building waste. The natural components of tiles occur naturally in unlimited quantities.

Their great durability is also part of their environmental compatibility. When cared for in the proper way and laid professionally, tiles continue to look terrific for years.

Tiles are colour- and lightfast. Once you know how crucial colours are to the harmony of a room, this becomes a key factor when choosing a ceramic covering. (see chapter 3 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Designingâ&#x20AC;?)

Tiles are robust. This is a tremendous advantage when used on floors in particular.

Tiles are largely unsusceptible to staining. Glazed tiles are not even phased by a spilt glass of red wine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the dread of many a home owner. All you need do is wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Unglazed vilbostone porcelain stoneware tiles are often factory-finished with vilbostonep plus; this makes them resistant to most standard domestic staining agents.

Tiles are largely scratch- and crack-resistant. With the harder vitreous tiles in particular, you have to drop something really heavy if you want to scratch the tile.

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High heels are far less terrifying on glazed-tile floor coverings. They withstand high pressure. The floor tile glazes are so hard that even a stiletto heel can’t harm them.

Frost-resistant vilbostone tiles are the ideal floor covering for balconies and terraces. When laid professionally (see professional glossary, “Expansion joints”), they remain weather resistant.

Glazed tiles laid outdoors should be slip-resistant in order to prevent the risk of injury when it’s wet and icy (see professional glossary, “Slip-resistant tiles”).

Due to the larger number of joints, small-format tiles have slip-resistant properties.

To optimise the effectiveness of floor heating, there’s hardly anything better than a tiled floor covering since tiles offer good thermal conductivity.

Many of the properties named mean that tiles are also a very attractive wall and floor covering from both an ecological and economic perspective.

Thanks to their durability in particular, what initially appears to be a costly investment soon starts to pay off.

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Laying General information about joints and laying The joints are part of the covering. This is why the nominal tile dimension1 (including joint) is the basis for calculating the material requirement In addition to compensating for tolerances, the joint also prevents water and dirt from penetrating into the tile covering. A cement-based joint prevents the penetration of bacteria, mould, etc.; the alkaline, cement-based environment impedes growth in the joint.

In order to compensate for the tolerances resulting from the manufacturing process, we recommend including corresponding joints when laying the tiles, depending on the size of the tiles and the desired appearance.

Tiles with an edge length of up to 150 mm should have a joint width of 1.5 - 5 mm.

Tiles with an edge length of more than 150 mm require a joint width of 2 - 8 mm.

In general, the joint width is the result of the difference between the nominal size and the work size1.

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Rooms used for public and commercial purposes In rooms used for commercial purposes, if there are any slight differences in height in the tile covering, the joint minimises the risk of the edges or corners chipping during use (e.g. when moving heavy suitcases with wheels or other heavy loads over the covering) In special areas, such as rooms exposed to chemicals, industrial kitchens, swimming pools, etc. special purpose adhesives and grouting materials may be require d. In such cases, it is best to contact the Deutsche Bauchemie organisation first.

1

See chapter 7 â&#x20AC;&#x153;A to Z of tilesâ&#x20AC;?

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Processing and laying nonvitreous tiles and nonvitreous tiles with ceramicplus These tiles2 are generally laid according to the thinbed method (in compliance with DIN 18 157) with a C1 adhesive (in compliance with DIN EN 12004).

Cutting Dry cutting is generally possible by scoring with a Widia wheel, applying even pressure. We recommend running and slightly blunting new cutting wheels prior to actual use by carrying out a number of test cuts. Should splintering occur, so-called fine cutting wheels are available from dealers for dry cutting purposes.

We recommend using special diamond-tipped wet tile cutters to ensure a clean cut in critical cutting work.

As there are no standards regulating the cuttability and method of cutting ceramic tiles, specialist companies are responsible for determining the cutting properties of the tile before laying.

Cut-outs To create cut-outs, a small cut-out grinder and a special tile diamond-cutting disk should be used to make a cross-cut on the reverse. The centre of the tile is carefully knocked out using the tip of a tile hammer. When the hole is large enough, the rest can be removed with a pair of parrot nippers.

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Drilling Possible using carbide drills in dry state. To this end, a hardened pointed punch is used to pick away a little material at the centre point of the hole and a carbide drill or a glass ceramics drill is then used.

Drilling should be carried out at a speed of approx.

400 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 800 rpm, applying moderate pressure.

Exact drill holes can be produced in all substrates by wet drilling with a hollow drill with a diamond bit in the standard sizes. When drilling in particular, care must be taken to ensure that the tile is laid professionally on a non-elastic base without any cavities, otherwise tiles could break or crack

2

EN 14411 Group B III - dry-pressed ceramic tiles and slabs with high water absorption E > 10%

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Processing and laying vilbostone porcelain stoneware and glazed vitreous and porcelain stoneware tile vilbostone porcelain stoneware tiles and glazed vitreous and porcelain stoneware3 tiles are generally laid according to the thin-bed method in compliance with DIN 18 157 with a plastic-modified C2 adhesive in compliance with DIN EN 12004.

When tiling outdoors, a suitable method of laying should be chosen to avoid cavities forming, e.g. the combined buttering & floating method with a plastic-modified C2 adhesive used in accordance with DIN EN 12004 or using special porcelain stoneware adhesives / flow-bed adhesives in the simple floating method Cutting As there are no standards regulating the cuttability and method of cutting ceramic tiles, specialist companies are responsible for determining the cutting properties of the tile before laying. Due to the special hardness or surface structure, it is sometimes necessary to use a wet cutter.

EN 14411 Group B Ia -Dry-pressed ceramic tiles and slabs with low water absorption E 0.5% EN 14411 Group B Ib - Dry-pressed ceramic tiles and slabs with low water absorption 0.5% < E 3%

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Special features: Glazed vitreous tiles are products whose dry cutting properties may vary. Hard glazes possess varying stress curves. Consequently, when scoring the tile, particularly with a new Widia wheel, splintering of the glaze may occur; this can generally be avoided by changing the amount of pressure applied during cutting. Dry cutting is generally possible by scoring with a Widia wheel, applying even pressure.

We recommend running and slightly blunting new cutting wheels prior to actual use by carrying out a number of test cuts. Should splintering occur, socalled fine cutting wheels are available from dealers for dry cutting purposes.

Special diamond-tipped wet tile cutters are recommended to ensure a clean cut in critical cutting work and with special surface effects, such as a metallic look Cut-outs To create cut-outs, a small cut-out grinder and a special tile diamond-cutting disk should be used to make a cross-cut on the reverse. The centre of the tile is carefully knocked out using the tip of a tile hammer.

When the hole is large enough, we recommend that the rest be removed with a pair of parrot nippers.

So as not to have to knock out the centre of the tile, a tile cutter is used to cut the tile through the centre of the specified hole and the pieces of both parts are removed with the parrot nippers 71

Drilling When drilling in particular, care must be taken to ensure that the tile is laid professionally on a nonelastic base without any cavities, otherwise tiles could break or crack.

Exact drill holes can be produced in all substrates by wet drilling with a hollow drill4 with a diamond bit in the standard sizes.

Drills recommended by Villeroy & Boch: 1. Wet drill (hollow drill with diamond bit) for permanent professional use 1.1 Marcrist Diamantwerkzeuge Karl-Benz-Straße 8 · 79761 Waldshut-Tiengen · Fon: 07741-96672-0 · Fax: 07741-96672-99 1.2 Karl Dahm & Partner Ludwigstraße 5 · D-83358 Seebruck · Fon: 08667-8780 · Fax: 08667-878200 1.3 Seelbach Werkzeuge GmbH Hauptstraße 20 · D-56477 Rennerod · Fon: 02664-9128-0 · Fax: 02664-9128-10

4

2. Wet drill (hollow drill with diamond bit) for private use 2.1 Marcrist Diamantwerkzeuge Karl-Benz-Straße 8 · 79761 Waldshut-Tiengen · Fon: 07741-96672-0 · Fax: 07741-96672-99 approx. 30-60* holes/drill 2.2 Alpen-Maykestag GmbH Hansaallee 201 · D-40549 Düsseldorf · Fon: 0211/537550-0 · Fax: 0211/593573 Up to approx. 10 holes / drill 3. Dry drill 3.1 Marcrist Diamantwerkzeuge Karl-Benz-Straße 8 · 79761 Waldshut-Tiengen · Fon: 07741-96672-0 · Fax: 07741-96672-99 3.2 Keil Werkzeugfabrik Postfach 1158 · D-51751 Engelskirchen · Fon: 02263/807-0 · Fax: 02263/807-333 3.3 Berner Profi Point Berlin Meeraner Straße 5-7 · D-12681 Berlin · Fon: 030/6310562 · Fax: 030/6310561 * No. of holes depends on the drill, rpm, speed, amount of water and type of tile

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Cleaning and care 1. General information on cleaning and care With ceramic coverings, a distinction should be made between initial and basic cleaning and routine cleaning Basic cleaning Basic or initial cleaning after completion of tiling work serves to remove any building dirt and cement film.

The application of suitable stain-removing cleaning agents may be necessary for other types of soiling at the construction site, such as paint stains Routine cleaning and care For routine cleaning, the tiles can be swept, vacuumed or wiped with a damp cloth using a suitable cleaning agent, if required.

Detergents that cause a film should not be used with ceramic tiles because they can leave unsightly stripes and cause cleaning problems.

The instructions of the cleaning agent manufacturer and recommended dosages should be followed 74

Cleaning methods Two methods are customarily used: â&#x20AC;˘ Manual cleaning using a broom, scrubbing brush, rubber squeegee and mop. â&#x20AC;˘ Machine cleaning using a single-disc machine, scrubbing suction machine or high-pressure cleaner with spray injection.

The procedure to be used will depend on the space available, the type of dirt and the surfaces to be cleaned (e.g. slip-resistant and textured surfaces) and the size of the area to be cleaned With minimum soiling, for example, in private households, we recommend manual cleaning Cleaning machines are generally used in commercial or public areas where there is a high volume of traffic. Single/three-disc or brush/scrubber machines have proven most effective for this purpose.

High-pressure cleaners with spray injection are particularly suitable for slip-resistant surfaces with a large amount of soiling.

With high-pressure cleaners there is a slight danger of washing out and destroying cement joints if the machine is not used correctly (pressure too high 75

because water jet is too close to surface). This effect is further exacerbated through the incorrect use of unsuitable cleaning agents, e.g. acid cleaning agents for routine cleaning Irrespective of the method chosen, the dirt should be removed and not simply allowed to dry onto the surface. The most economical and reliable method is to use a powerful water suction machine. The tiled surface should be dry after completing the cleaning process.

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Values of individual types of cleaning agent

pH-value of concentrate in the range of

Strongly alkaline cleaner, e.g. with sodium or potassium hydroxide

> 10,5

solution base Weakly alkaline cleaner So-called neutral cleaners Weakly acidic cleaner, e.g. with

8,0 bis ≤ 10,5 6,0 bis ≤ 8,0

citric acid base Strongly acidic cleaner, e.g. with hydrochloric, phosphoric or

3,0 bis ≤ 6,0 < 3,0

sulphuric acid base The concentration specified on the container in which the agents are supplied must be observed precisely!

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

acidic

8

9

10 11 12 13 14

alkaline

➔

➔

stronger

stronger

Fig.: pH values of cleaning agent groups in accordance with the information leaflet from the “Deutsche Gesellschaft für das Badewesen” (German Association for the Recreational and Medicinal Bath Industry): “Hygiene, cleaning and disinfection in pools”.

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Cleaning agents The type of soiling and the surface to be cleaned (different materials) determine the type and composition of the cleaning agent.

The pH value of the cleaning agent is of particular importance as it reveals whether it is alkaline, neutral or acidic. The pH scale ranges from 0-14 (see the table page 77).

Strong alkaline cleaning agents are not used for routine cleaning and only in exceptional cases for basic cleaning because they are highly aggressive.

If such cleaners are left for long periods on aluminium, glass or plastics, they will attack and destroy the surface.

Painted surfaces are attacked even more quickly; such surfaces or inserts must be masked.

Weak alkaline cleaning agents can normally be used without problem.

They are mainly employed for cleaning sanitary areas, showers, etc.

Correctly diluted with water, they will remove body fats, cosmetics, grease and dirt deposits.

Neutral cleaning agents are suitable for routine cleaning of dry areas (standard use ceramic floors, WC installations, changing rooms, etc.). Their grease-removing potential is limited.

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Weak acidic cleaning agents remove limescale deposits (e.g. calcium scale), urine deposits and other mineral precipitates and deposits.

They are also used for initial cleaning to remove cement film remaining after grouting. If used over long periods they will attack cement joints. To prevent this, the surfaces should be thoroughly wetted before cleaning in order to reduce absorption by the joints.

The effectiveness of weak acidic cleaning agents also depends on the hardness of the water.

Strong acidic cleaning agents are only recommended for basic cleaning where there is a lot of cement film. The surfaces should be covered with water beforehand and neutralised after cleaning.

Cleaning agents containing hydrofluoric acid must not be used as they quickly attack ceramic materials and cause permanent damage!

The „Deutsche Gesellschaft für das Badewesen“ provides an extended list of suitable tested cleaning agents for ceramic surfaces in swimming pools; this so-called “Liste RK” is updated continuously.

Film-forming cleaning agents should not be used on ceramic surfaces. These can considerably reduce or even neutralise the slip resistance of ceramic coverings, and can also produce unsightly effects (e.g. smearing) or cause cleaning problems.

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Please observe the manufacturersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; instructions carefully, as incorrect application of cleaning agents may attack and damage the tile covering, joints and elastic sealants.

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2. Nonvitreous tiles5 and nonvitreous tiles with ceramicplus6 Basic cleaning Tiles with the easy-care ceramicplus6 surface are water repellent; this reduces the cement film and it can generally be removed with water straight after laying More stubborn residues of cement film can be removed using a weakly acidic cement film remover and a soft sponge or cloth. Cleaning agent residue should then be completely removed with water.

Tiles bearing the symbol ▲7 “precious metal plating”, “not scratchproof” should be cleaned with water and washing up liquid only.

5 6 7

Group B III - dry-pressed ceramic tiles and slabs with high water absorption E > 10% The ceramicplus surface finish facilitates but does not replace cleaning.

You will find these symbols with the respective product texts to the tiles.

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Routine cleaning It is generally sufficient to clean with water and a soft or non-scratch sponge or cloth

Type of dirt: Normal degree of soiling, such as dust, light dirt Product: Neutral cleaning agent etc. Buzil G 481 Blitz-Citro Dosage : 50ml / 10l cold water Procedure: Wipe the surfaces with a micro-fibre mop or cloth Type of dirt: Lime scale deposits Product: etc. Buzil G 463 Bucasan clear Dosage: 50ml / 10l cold water Procedure: Wipe the surfaces with a micro-fibre mop or cloth Type of dirt: Grease, oils, waxes, cosmetics Product: u. a. Buzil G 433 Aktiv Dosage : 50ml / 10l cold water Procedure: Wipe the surfaces with a micro-fibre mop or cloth

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Firma BUZIL-Werk Wagner GmbH & Co.KG, FraunhoferstraĂ&#x;e 17, D-87700 Memmingen, Tel. 08331-9306, www.buzil.com Alternative cleaning agents to the ones listed above can also be used.

Strongly alkaline or strongly acidic cleaning agents can attack or destroy the surface of nonvitreous tiles and joints and must therefore not be used!

Abrasive cleaning agents and sponges can impair the surface properties and damage the glaze.

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3. vilbostone porcelain stoneware (also polished and rough-polished surfaces), glazed vitreous and porcelain stoneware tile On account of their properties, tiles are easy to clean. The cleaning methods and cleaning agents must thus be adapted to the type of floor and local conditions.

It should be noted that hydrofluoric acid and related substances can attack or destroy the surface of porcelain stoneware tiles and glazed vitreous and porcelain stoneware tiles.

Consequently, no cleaning agents containing hydrofluoric acid are to be used! vilbostoneplus Villeroy & Boch applies the vilbostonep plus sealant to the surfaces of matt and rough-polished porcelain stoneware tiles at the factory, leading to a marked improvement in resistance to staining and soiling; V&B does not recommend subsequent treatment with impregnating agents!

Sealing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for polished porcelain stoneware tiles only!

After basic cleaning, polished porcelain stoneware tiles should be sealed with a suitable stain preventer because polishing removes the stain protection from the surface pores.

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Initial / basic / intensive cleaning

Type of dirt: Loose dirt Procedure: Sweeping or vacuum cleaning Type of dirt: Cement film, mineral soiling, such as lime scale deposits, soap residue Procedure: 1. First wet the covering and joints with water 2. Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre mop with short fibres 3. Remove the dirty water 4. Rinse tiles with a lot of water Product: Acidic cleaning agents, incl.: - INOLIT, CC Dr. Schutz - Buzil G 491 EROLcid, Dosage: 500 ml /10 l cold water Type of dirt: Grease, oils, waxes, cosmetics, shoe marks Procedure: 1. Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre mop with short fibres 2. Remove the dirty water 3. Rinse tiles with a lot of water Product: Alkaline cleaning agents, incl.: - Buzil G 490 EROL Dosage: 500 ml /10 l cold water 85

Type of dirt: Normal dirt, such as dust, light dirt, street dirt Procedure: Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre mop / cloth (e.g. White Magic from VERMOP - www.vermop.com) Product: Neutral cleaning agent, e.g.: - Buzil G 481 Blitz-Citro Dosage: 50 ml /10 l cold water

Firma BUZIL-Werk Wagner GmbH & Co.KG, FraunhoferstraĂ&#x;e 17, D-87700 Memmingen, Tel. 08331-9306, www.buzil.com Alternative cleaning agents to the ones listed above can also be used.

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4. Slip-resistant tiles for rooms in commercial use and barefoot rooms 10 Owing to their high resistance to chemicals and their pronounced wear resistance, porcelain stoneware tiles are predominantly used in areas subject to high levels of stress Only hydrofluoric acid and related substances are able to attack or destroy the surface of porcelain stoneware tiles and they may thus not be used on these surfaces! 11 The slip-resistant properties are achieved through the roughness of the tile’s surface or by means of relief-type profiling. More extensive cleaning is thus required than for smooth, glazed surfaces.

Tiles: R9 – R11 / Barefoot A – C incl. Display, entrance, sanitary area pH - range: acidic Type of dirt: Mineral dirt: cement film, lime scale, lime soap, rust Product: - Buzil G 491 EROLcid Dosage: 1 l / 10 l cold water Procedure: Wet covering (joints!) Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

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pH - range: alkaline Type of dirt: Grease and oil dirt, proteins Product: - Buzil G 490 EROL Dosage: 1-3 l / 10 l cold water Procedure: Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

Wet area: incl. Sanitary and changing areas / shower cubicles / swimming pools pH - range: acidic Type of dirt: Mineral dirt: cement film, lime scale, lime soap, rust Product: - INOLIT, CC Dr. Schutz - Buzil G 491 EROLcid, Dosage: 1 l / 10 l cold water Procedure: Wet covering (joints!)

Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

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Tiles: R9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; R13 / V4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; V8 Food area: large kitchens, food industry pH - range: acidic Type of dirt: Mineral dirt: cement film, lime scale, lime soap, rust Product: - INOLIT, CC Dr. Schutz - Buzil G 491 EROLcid Dosage: 1 l / 10 l cold water Procedure: Wet covering (joints!)

Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

pH - range: alkaline Type of dirt: Grease and oil dirt, proteins Product: - Buzil G 490 EROL Dosage: 1-3 l/ 10 l cold water Procedure: Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

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Industry: workshops, working pits, wash rooms, grinding shops pH - range: acidic Type of dirt: Mineral dirt: cement film, lime scale, lime soap, rust Product: - INOLIT, CC Dr. Schutz - Buzil G 491 EROLcid, Dosage: 1 l / 10 l cold water Procedure: Wet covering (joints!)

Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

pH - range: alkaline Type of dirt: Grease and oil dirt, proteins Product: - Buzil G 490 EROL Dosage: 1-3 l/ 10 l cold water Procedure: Apply cleaning agent and wipe with a micro-fibre pad single-disc machine.

Suck up dirty water.

Rinse tiles with lots of water.

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Routine cleaning Normal surface soiling incl. dust: Neutral cleaning agent: incl. Buzil G 481 Blitz Citro / Dosage: 50 ml / 10 l cold water mechanical: 100 ml / 10 l cold water Lime scale deposits: Acidic cleaner: incl. Buzil G 491 EROLcid / Dosage: 50 – 100 ml / 10 l cold water mechanical: 100 – 200 ml / 10 l cold water Grease and oil dirt: Alkaline cleaner: incl. Buzil G 490 EROL / Dosage: 50 – 100 ml / 10 l cold water mechanical: 100 – 200 ml / 10 l cold water Procedure: Clean floor covering using a cleaning agent in a twostage mopping process with a microfibre short-hair mop (e.g. Blue, White Magic by VERMOP - www.vermop.com). With larger areas, a cleaning machine with microfibre pad is recommended.

Alternative cleaning agents to the ones listed above can also be used.

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10

Information from datasheet “Bodenbeläge für nass belastete Barfußbereiche” –

GUV-I 8527 edition July 1999 (previously GUV 26.17), publisher: Bundesverband der Unfallkassen – München Information from datasheet “Hygiene, Reinigung und Desinfektion in Bädern“, publisher. Deutsche Gesellschaft für das Badewesen, cleaning agents from the list “Geprüfte Reinigungsmittel für keramische Schwimmbäder”, the so-called “RK List”

11

The cleaning agent industry offers suitable cleaning agents for the

initial/basic/intensive and routine cleaning – please observe the manufacturer’s instructions.

For example: Alpin Chemie GmbH Hindelanger Straße 29 · 87527 Sonthofen · Tel 08321-66890 BUZIL-Werk Wagner GmbH & Co.KG Fraunhoferstraße 17 · D-87700 Memmingen Tel. 08331-9306 · www.buzil.com Eco-Nova Handelsges.

Textilstraße 14 · D-48465 Schüttorf · Tel. 05923-99360 Henkel Ecolab Deutschland GmbH Postfach 130406 · D-40554 Düsseldorf · Tel. 0211-98930 Lithofin Produkte GmbH Postfach 1134 · D-73240 Wendlingen · Tel. 07024-9403-0 Tana Chemie GmbH Ingelheimerstr. 1-3 · D-55120 Mainz · Tel. 06131-96403

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Commitment to the environment As a very responsible and innovative company, Villeroy & Boch Tiles is especially committed to the environment. The conservation of resources is enshrined in the corporate objectives as part of an overarching strategy. V&B Fliesen GmbH is the first German tile manufacturer to be validated in compliance with EMAS III â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of the most stringent and comprehensive verification systems currently in use.

The product range also follows the principles of sustainability. The high quality of Villeroy & Boch tiles in terms of both workmanship and product concept provides for the necessary durability and sustainability to ensure that they are retained in the product range over extensive periods. They are also manufactured by means of environmentfriendly processes. Many of the ranges have received the EU Ecolabel in recognition of their ecological merits.

This responsible approach is appreciated above all by architects, as architectural plans today are required to include a life cycle assessment of all employed materials. Villeroy & Boch Tiles consequently requires its suppliers of raw materials to adopt a similarly ecology-minded approach.

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9

A to Z of tiles

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Abrasion Floor coverings are subject to surface wear through friction and rubbing, which can cause the surface appearance of glazed tiles to change.

Application areas for tiles are walls and floors in residential and non-residential buildings.

Product

Product standard Areas of application

Nonvitreous EN 14411 tiles Group BIII

Walls in residential and non-residential buildings

Glazed EN 14411 vitreous tiles Group BIb; BIIa; BIIb

Inside walls in residential and non-residential buildings according to the required abrasion classification (indoor and outdoor coverings) container tiling (drinking water tanks, swimming pools)

Porcelain stoneware

Preferably wall and floor coverings in residential and non-residential buildings

EN 14411 Group BIa

In compliance with EN 14411, these application areas and technical properties can be indicated by symbols which are, for example, to be found on the packaging. Symbols frequently used are:

Tile suitable for use on walls.

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Tile suitable for use on floors.

Wear resistance group in compliance with EN ISO 10545-7, see Wear resistance Frost resistance in compliance with EN 10545-12 ARTEFACTUR A studio of Villeroy & Boch Tiles which is specialised in manual craftsmanship and individual tile design.

See chapter 4 “The Villeroy & Boch ARTEFACTUR” Barrier-free planning and building means planning and building residential and nonresidential buildings, as well as public places, so that they can be used by all people without assistance and without restriction. This is based on various standards and statutory regulations (DIN 18024 Part 1-2 – Barrier-free building; DIN 18025 Part 1-2 – Barrier-free residential buildings). Slip-resistant properties are required in public areas. Ceramic tiles are particularly suitable for these applications. Such coverings are also increasingly required for floors in shower trays in private bathrooms.

Biscuit Tile body. The glaze is applied to the biscuit for glazed tiles.

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Board Base element made of, amongst other things, extruded polystyrene rigid foam, with integrated slope and floor inlet, to produce flush-mounted shower trays.

Buttering Procedure using the thin-bed method described in DIN 18157 Part 1 Number 7.3.2 with glue applied to the back of the tiles. This procedure is to be preferred when laying tiles of different thicknesses, e.g. small format tiles inserted in larger areas made up of other formats/thicknesses.

Calibrated tiles After manufacture, the edges of calibrated tiles, marked with the symbol }, are additionally ground so that the sides are at an angle of 90째 to the surface. Calibrated tiles are particularly true to dimension. As such, they allow tiling arrangements with narrow joints. The upper edge of calibrated tiles has a naturally ground contour. If this upper edge is angled, it is referred to as a bevelled edge.

This bevelled edge may vary within a standard fluctuation range relating to the production process or as a result of the structure on tiles with a surface structure. Bevelled edges can make joints look wider.

Calibrated tile

Calibrated tile with bevelled edges

View from side

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Calibre See Tile sizes Care See chapter 6 “Cleaning and care” Chemical resistance in compliance with ISO 10545-13 Nonvitreous and glazed vitreous tiles are resistant to household chemicals and swimming pool water additives (except for cleaning agents containing hydrofluoric acid and its compounds) (minimum requirements class GB - DIN EN ISO 10545-13), Resistance to acids and alkalis must be tested with respect to the specific tile.

Unglazed porcelain stoneware tiles are resistant to chemicals except for hydrofluoric acids and its compounds (testing in accordance with EN 10545-13).

Minor colour variations do not indicate chemical attack.

CE marking The CE mark indicates that the product complies with the requirements of the corresponding EU directive – in particular with regard to health protection and the safety of users and consumers – and may thus be freely circulated within the European Community.

Cement/sand bedding Also referred to as conventional tiling. Method of 98

attaching tiles to walls and floors with mortar made of cement and sand, which is mixed on site.

Tiling Standards: VOB Part C: ATV-DIN 18352 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tiles and slab workâ&#x20AC;&#x153; ceramicplus ceramicplus is a surface finish for nonvitreous tiles from Villeroy & Boch. A special manufacturing process modifies the surface energy of the ceramic material surface energy by means of a chemicophysical process. As a result of this, water which comes into contact with the ceramic surface displays a stronger tendency to form droplets than on conventional surfaces, thus minimising the area of contact with the tile. ceramicplus tiles thus offer enhanced easy-care properties.

Ceramic digital printing Ink-jet printers specialised in the field of tiles work with special ceramic inks. The reproducible colour space is attained in the 4-colour system through combined printing of the colours cyan, brown, yellow and black. An additional, fifth print head works with the contrasting colour white. The high printing rates of over 40 m/min mean that integrating a digital printer into a tile glazing line poses no problems. The method offers a number of advantages over conventional application processes: The non-contact nature of the printing process enables the decoration of surfaces with pronounced reliefs.

Direct printing without an additional printing form 99

provides for maximum design variability while also facilitating direct product changes. The very high resolution ensures that even the finest and most intricate designs are rendered with a faithful attention to detail.

Cleaning – of ceramic tiles One differentiates between the basic, initial cleaning and maintenance or everyday cleaning.

See chapter 6 “Cleaning and care” Coefficient of thermal expansion in compliance with EN ISO 10545-8 The coefficient of thermal linear expansion of tiles in accordance with DIN EN 14411 (at temperatures up to 100°C: 0.007 mm/mK).

Coefficient of thermal conductivity Specific properties of a material in respect to its ability to conduct heat. The calculation value for the coefficient of thermal conductivity of tiles in accordance with DIN 4108 (“Heat protection”) Part 4 is 1 W/(m x K).

Cold-curing resin adhesives Normally two-component adhesives (resin and hardener) that cure through chemical reaction. For laying or jointing of ceramic coverings. (in compliance with EN 12004 Mortars and adhesives for tiles and slabs - Cold-curing resin adhesives [R]).

We differentiate between: Cold-curing epoxy resin 100

or polyurethane adhesive.

Epoxy resin adhesives can be used on all bases.

They are particularly suitable for chemically or mechanically high-stressed coverings or for tiling on steel.

Polyurethane adhesives are not standardised. They are notable for their high elasticity and are particularly suitable for laying on bases likely to undergo considerable changes in form.

Colour coding The colours of the ranges from the architecture programme are coded in accordance with RAL (RAL Design System).

Colourfastness Ceramic tiles are unaffected by light and are colourfast. Thus, without a mechanical or chemical load, the surface of a tile only changes under extremely high temperatures.

Colour nuances Ceramic tiles and slabs are made from natural raw materials and, within standard tolerances, are therefore subject to certain variations in surface finish, for example, colour, dĂŠcor, structure, gloss or surface roughness. Grade-1 tiles are therefore sorted in accordance with so-called colour nuances, a twofigure number with a letter, e.g. 45 X, and labelled and boxed separately. Only tiles of the same nuance may be used within a tiled surface. During installa101

tion, tiles from different packs are to mixed. When using basic and dĂŠcor tiles from a particular range, the nuances must be the same.

Combined tiling method Thin-bed method described in DIN 18157 Part 1 Number 7.3.3 combining buttering and floating with adhesive application to both the base and the back of the tile.

This method is used to virtually prevent the formation of cavities when laying tiles. This is necessary, for example, with coverings that are subjected to high mechanical loads and for coverings laid outdoors or in swimming pools.

Combustibility Ceramic tiles are non-combustible (Inflammability class A1 - DIN 4102).

Compressive strength The compressive strength is the resistance of a material to the action of compressive forces. If the compressive stress is greater than the compressive strength of a body, the body is destroyed. Ceramic tiles have high compressive strength.

Cotto / terracotta tiles Unglazed, coloured ceramic tiles with high water absorption. Mainly used for floor coverings in rooms with a rustic character. The surface of floors tiled with terracotta, cotto etc. has to be treated, 102

after tiling, in compliance with the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure suitable protection.

Craquelé formation / Crazing Craquelé refers to the fine hairline cracks to be found in the glaze of nonvitreous tiles and glass plating. On many articles the hairline cracks are a desired and intentional effect and not a cause for complaint. Articles which may develop hairline cracks in the glaze are indicated by B D .

Crazing Fine shallow cracks on nonvitreous tiles. They can be caused by the properties of the ceramic materials (crazing susceptibility) or, much more commonly, by changes in the form of the ground below.

Crazing resistance is required for tiles (testing in accordance with DIN-EN ISO 10545-11). Glazes susceptible to crazing must be indicated as such by the manufacturer.

See also Craquelé formation / Crazing Discharge resistance The discharge resistance, also known as the resistance to earth, is the electrical resistance of an object to earth potential. Ceramic tiles and slabs generally have a discharge resistance of > 1010 Ohms and are thus anti-static and insulating. They are regarded as electrically conductive if their discharge resistance does not exceed 108 Ohms.

A floor covering discharge resistance of ≤ 106 Ohms 103

can place particular requirements on the safety of use.

Dispersion adhesives Adhesives with a high synthetic component for tile laying using the thin-bed method (in compliance with EN 12004 Mortars and adhesives for tiles and slabs - Dispersion adhesives [D]). Usually ready for use. Dispersion adhesives are only water-resistant to a limited extent, if at all, and are suitable solely for indoor coverings with low exposure to moisture.

Manufacturersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; instructions should be observed.

Displacement area The displacement area is the cavity between the walking and the drainage level with raised surfaces (application, for example, in large-scale commercial kitchens).

See also BRG 181.

Disposal Disposal or waste disposal is the generic term for all methods and activities that serve the removal or recycling of waste. At the end of their useful life, ceramic tiles may be disposed of as building waste.

Ecolabel This label evaluates the entire life cycle of a product from manufacture to use and disposal. In the last few years it has come to symbolise environmentally sound products and offers consumers throughout 104

Europe a simple and reliable guide. The Ecolabel is awarded for four years.

EMAS V&B Fliesen GmbH was the first German tile manufacturer to participate in the EMAS (EcoManagement and Audit Scheme), currently the strictest test system for environmental criteria, at Merzig, Mettlach and La FertĂŠ-Gaucher. It calls for a continuous, performance-oriented and regularly measurable optimisation process in which employees must also be involved.

Facility management Within the field of facility management (FM), ceramic coverings are becoming increasingly important thanks to their easy-clean properties and durability Flexural tensile strength in compliance with EN ISO 10545-4 Building elements (e.g. tiles) are subject to flexural tensile stress - compressive stress on the face and tensile stress on the lower side, whereby the latter is generally the more significant. Flexural tensile strength (unit: N/mm2) is laid down as a minimum value in the relevant material standards (table 1).

Floor coverings are subject to flexural stress as a result of being walked or driven on and through the way the tiles are laid in the mortar bed in the case of soft substrates or floating floors. While stress 105

through walking is negligible, the stress caused to coverings by being driven on, particularly by industrial trucks, should be allowed for by selecting tiles of appropriate thickness and/or minimum pressure load.

Product

Material

Flexural tensile strength standard in N/mm2

Nonvitreous tiles

EN 14411 Group BIII

Thickness â&#x2030;Ľ 7,5 mm min. 12 < 7,5 mm min. 15

Porcelain stoneware tiles

EN 14411 Group BIa

minimum 35

Glazed vitreous tiles

EN 14411 Group BIb

minimum 30

Table 1: Minimum values of flexural tensile strength

Floating Type of thin-bed method described in DIN 18157 Part 1 Number 7.3.1 with adhesive applied to the laying surface.

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Floating bed mortars Special thin-bed mortars for laying floor tiles. They enable the tiles to be fixed cavity-free thin bed according to the floating method.

Floor coverings subjected to high mechanical loads These are floor coverings subjected to stress through industrial trucks, e.g. hand-driven forklift trucks, and other vehicles.

Tiles used for such floor coverings must comply with the data sheet „Floor coverings subjected to high mechanical loads“ issued by the „Zentralverband des Deutschen Baugewerbes“ (Central association of the German building industry).

Frost resistance in compliance with EN ISO 10545-12 Most important criterion for using tiles outdoors.

Required, according to EN 14411 Group B I a for porcelain stoneware and EN 14411 Group B I b for vitreous tiles.

Tiles must be laid correctly to prevent frost damage.

Glaze Coating applied of sintered, coloured and possibly decorated ceramic layer to a nonvitreous or vitreous tile.

Glazed edge Tiling a wall with basic tiles with glazed edges has 107

various advantages in terms of hygiene and aesthetic edges and corners. Villeroy & Boch produces basic tiles with one glazed edge for the entire nonvitreous range (except for a few of the large formats and rectified tiles).

The relevant articles are indicated by the symbol L. In addition, certain tile ranges can be produced with two glazed edges. In the case of rectangular formats, one long and one short edge is glazed.

These articles are indicated by the symbol K. Health and ceramic tiles Tiles do not emit any emissions or odours and are easy-care. Thanks to these advantages, tile coverings are very hygienic and do not create an environment in which pathogens can flourish.

With regular care, they do not allow the development of any factors that could be harmful to health.

Villeroy & Boch does not use any toxic materials that could pose a danger to health in the manufacture of its tiles.

Heat storage capacity The heat storage capacity of vitreous tiles is approx. 0.8 kJ/kg/K Impact sound To reduce impact sound transmission, ceramic coverings are isolated from the substrate.

As a rule, the impact sound insulation is fitted 108

below the floor; however, it can also be isolated by fitting it below the tile covering.

Impregnation Subsequent treatment of polished (lustro, rough polished) porcelain stoneware tiles to improve stain resistance.

Joints Used to compensate material-related tolerances as well as substrate and applicator tolerances. Moreover, the joint prevents the ingress of dirt. The width of the joints is normally the difference between the nominal and manufacturing dimensions.

Information on joint widths is to be found in DIN 18 157, Part 1 - 3. â&#x20AC;˘ Edge length up to 150 mm Joint width of 1.5 - 5 mm. â&#x20AC;˘ Edge length greater than 150 mm Joint width of 2 - 8 mm.

Villeroy & Boch recommends a minimum joint width of approx. 3mm. see also Laying / Tile sizes / Modular tiling Lapped surface See Polished / lapped surface Laser suitability Statutory requirements stipulate that, in all rooms where lasers are used (e.g. in operating theatres), 109

accident prevention regulation VBG 93 “Laser Irradiation” of the “Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften” (Confederation of Industrial Employers’ Liability Insurance Associations) must be observed. According to the “Hauptverband der Berufsgenossenschaften”, these requirements are met by tiles with matt glazes (irrespective of the type of laser used). This includes all matt glazed tiles from the Villeroy & Boch range.

Laying Method for the production of ceramic wall and floor coverings.

There is a difference between thin-bed and conventional laying. (see: “Thin-bed method” and “Thick-bed method”). In the thin-bed mortar method, there is a difference between “buttering”, “floating” or the “combined method” (see appropriate entry). Tiling in compliance with the “medium-bed method” (see entry) is a version of the thin-bed mortar method using a thicker layer of mortar (from approx. 5 mm).

Lightness value The lightness value of tiles can be determined from single-coloured surfaces. The lightness value is the reflectance of a certain colour hue between black Y = 0 and white Y = 100.

The lightness value indicates to what extent the relevant hue differs from black or white in terms of brightness.

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Medium amber (â&#x20AC;&#x153;LAâ&#x20AC;?)

Method of laying large tiles (nominal dimensions > 40 x 40 cm) on floors or uneven laying surfaces that have to be evened. The adhesive (usually special hydraulic medium-bed cement) is applied with a coarse serrated trowel in a thickness of 5 - 15 mm.

Modular tiling Villeroy & Boch tile ranges are normally modular, i.e. tiles of different formats can be laid together in a modular format, if the nominal dimension is taken into account. Tiles of the same calibre can be laid with a uniform joint width. Wall and floor tiles of different calibres can be laid in line with different joint widths if the nominal dimension is taken into account. Tiles of different thicknesses can normally be combined. We recommend that differences in tile thickness of more than 1 mm be compensated.

Moisture expansion in compliance with EN ISO 10545-10 Moisture expansion in compliance of vitreous tiles is negligible and very low for nonvitreous tiles with high water absorption. The latter should not be used for applications under water (swimming pool or container tiling) or in humid industrial rooms with strongly varying water loads however, due to the danger of crazing of the glaze.

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Monocalibre Calibrated tiles are only available in a single calibre â&#x20AC;&#x201C; monocalibre.

Mosaic There is a difference between hand-set, hand-cut and hand-hewn mosaics.

Mosaics Mosaics are small-format tiles less than â&#x2030;¤ 10x10cm.

Nominal size Dimension to describe the product; as a rule, the nominal size is calculated from the work size and the joint width.

Nonvitreous Traditional term for fine ceramic tiles with high water absorption E > 10% - DIN EN 14411 group B III. Plating and inserts See Precious metal, glass, natural stone and HPL Polished / lapped surface The surface of an unglazed vitreous or porcelain stoneware tile that, after firing, is rough-polished via a mechanical polishing procedure, which produces a polished appearance.

Porcelain stoneware For porcelain stoneware tiles, there is a differentia112

tion between glazed and unglazed. The advantage of unglazed porcelain stoneware is the full-body colouring. The surface of unglazed porcelain stoneware is not subject to wear and it is thus suitable for highly frequented areas. According to EN 14411 Group BIa, water absorption E â&#x2030;¤ 0.5%.

Precious metal, glass, natural stone and HPL as plating and inserts Precious metal, glass, natural stone and highpressure laminate with an imitation wood surface finish are not scratchproof and have special characteristics that differ from those of ceramics. Only fine-grain mortar should be used for jointing and only water and a neutral cleaning agent should be used for cleaning. Borders, mosaics and inserts made of glass or high-pressure laminate with an imitation wood surface should only be used on walls and not on the floor. As far as precious metals and natural stone are concerned, changes in the appearance of the surface as a result of subsequent use are possible and in some cases desired.

The desired effect on the surface of floor tiles with metal inserts in particular (matt gloss) is only achieved through use. Please refer to information on product groups and materials. Precious metal plating is indicated by the symbol x, glass-plating by the symbol B. Processing Tiles are generally dry-cut but, depending on the 113

material (with some surfaces), they are also wetcut. With particularly complex inlay work, water-jet cutting may be necessary Protection of listed historical buildings The protection of listed historical buildings means protecting cultural, industrial and natural monuments. The aim is to ensure that listed historical buildings are maintained and preserved in the long-term and that they are not damaged or destroyed. Listed tile coverings are restored to their original state by Villeroy & Bochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own mosaic workshop.

Radioactivity The radiation emitted by tiles corresponds to the natural radiation exposure of raw materials â&#x20AC;&#x201C; clays, kaolin, quartz, feldspar and chalk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and is of a comparable level to other building materials, such as concrete, mortar, bricks, etc.

Reflectance The reflectance describes the relationship between incident and reflected light. Glazed, matt and coloured tiles have different degrees of reflectance and this must be taken into account when deciding the layout of room lighting.

Resistance See Chemical resistance

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Rough-polished surface The surface of an unglazed vitreous or porcelain stoneware tile that, after firing, is rough-polished via a mechanical polishing process. In the case of tiles with a structured surface or surface relief, the higher zones have a glossy and the lower zones a matt appearance.

Sealants In addition to the use of sealing strips in compliance with DIN 18195, composite seals have proven effective when working with tiles and slabs. The information leaflet „Composite seals - Instructions on producing liquid-proceseed composite seals with linings and coverings consisting of tiles and slabs for indoor and outdoor applications“ (1/2010) issued by the „Fachverband Deutsches Fliesengewerbe“ (German Tiling Association) is an important basis for correct planning and execution.

Sheet-mounting Small-format tiles up to a format of 10 x 10 cm are mounted on sheets in the relevant tile grid. There are two variations of this: • Sheet-mounted with lattice paper on the back (adhesion 5) for essentially dry areas (standard) • Sheet-mounted with lattice paper on the front (adhesion 4) for wet areas As a rule, the provision of loose tiles or sheet-mounting from the front has to be agreed in advance.

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Sheet-mounted tiles should always be stored in a dry place. For coverings that are exposed to wetness, frost or the like, we recommend using only sheet-mounted tiles with lattice paper on the front.

Shower tray construction systems Complete system for the manufacture of flushfitted shower trays with matching base elements and corresponding mouldings.

Slabs Ceramic tiles and slabs are classified by groups and product standards in DIN EN 14411.

The classification is based on the forming process (extrusion or dry pressing) and water absorption E. Design

B Dry pressed ceramic tiles and slabs

Group

BIa

BIb

Waterabsorption

E≤0,5%

Annex (standard)

G

BIIa

BIIb

BIII

0,5%< E≤3% 3%<E≤6%

6%<E≤10%

E>10%

H

K

L

J

Classification of ceramic tiles and slabs in compliance with DIN EN 14411.

Villeroy & Boch manufactures products in group BIa (porcelain stoneware tiles), BIb (vitreous tiles) and BIII (nonvitreous tiles).

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Slip-resistance Special tiles with profiled or rough surface used to prevent accidents through slipping. Accident insurers (professional association or BAGUV) demand slip-resistant coverings for floors in work rooms and areas with high risk of slipping (e.g. in swimming pools). The tiles used in these areas must have the required slip resistant properties (as demonstrated by manufacturer). They are tested in accordance with the accident insurers guidelines together with DIN 51087 and DIN 51130.

Slip-resistant tiles are increasingly used in shower areas, particular in conjunction with barrier-free building.

Rules: 1. BGR181 October 2003 issue “Specifications for floors in working rooms and work areas subject to a risk of slipping.”

Published by: Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (Main association of employers’ liability insurance associations) Assessment groups: R9 – R13 and R11 V4 – R13 V10 2. GUV – I 8527 “Floor coverings in barefoot areas subject to wet conditions” Published by: Bundesverband der Unfallversicherungsträger der öffentlichen Hand (BAGUV) (Federal association of public-sector accident insurers) Assessment groups A, B and C

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Sound insulation DIN 4109 regulates measures for protection against airborne and footfall sound transmission from otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s living and working areas, external noise and noise from technical installations in adjacent buildings.

The latest sound insulation regulations set down in â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DIN 4109 Supplement 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; VDI Guideline 4100 must be observed.

Stain resistance in compliance with DIN EN ISO 10545-14 To determine stain resistance, the surface of the tile is tested with specific test solutions over a suitable period of time.

Unglazed porcelain stoneware from Villeroy & Boch plus ceramic seal finish. is sealed with the vilbostonep However, this surface protection is not applied to polished porcelain stoneware tiles. To improve stain resistance on these surfaces, impregnation with a suitable impregnating agent is recommended.

Surface finish The surface finish of a tile specifies the appearance and structure of the tile and/or the natural material that it imitates, e.g. plain, graniti, marble, slate.

Together with the surface properties (e.g. plane, rough, reliefed) and the gloss level (e.g. matt, silk matt, polished, gloss), the finish describes the visual impression of the tile irrespective of the colour.

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Thermal shock resistance in compliance with EN ISO 10545-9 Resistance to thermal shock as required by the relevant product standards such as DIN EN 14411 (testing in accordance with DIN-EN 10545-9).

Thin-bed method Method of attaching tiles to walls and floors with a thin bed of mortar.

Tiling Standards: DIN 18157: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Materials for ceramic coverings using the thin-bed methodâ&#x20AC;?

Part 1: Hydraulically hardening adhesives Part 2: Dispersion adhesives Part 3: Epoxy-based adhesives The mortar bed thickness depends on the tile format.

Thin-bed mortar (hydraulic) Cement-based, hydraulically hardening tile adhesives (in compliance with EN 12004 Mortars and adhesives for tiles and slabs - cementitious adhesives [C]) for attaching tiles using the thin-bed mortar method. Mostly used for non-combustible surfaces such as concrete, cement/sand screeds and renders for inside and outside.

Tile sizes The tile format is given as a nominal dimension, which is made up of the work size (actual size) plus 119

the recommended joint width. In the industrial manufacture of tiles, variations in the size (calibre) of the tiles are inevitable. The sizes are sorted, labelled and boxed separately. The calibre code is stated on every package next to the shade code and specifies the actual size of the tile. Calibrated tiles, which are mainly produced in calibre 7, have a high level of dimensional stability. Modular tiling with large-format tiles and a joint width of approx. 3mm should be implemented with calibre 7.

Example: For a tile in format 30 x 30 cm with work size 296 x 296 mm, the following general calibre data will be stated on every package: Calibre 295 x 295 mm 296 x 296 mm 297 x 297 mm

Code 5 6 7

Examples for actual tile size: Nominal dimension: 30 x 30 cm Work size: 296 x 296 mm Calibre 7 Actual size: 297 x 297 mm Joint width: 3 mm

Printing on the box Nuance

Calibre

45 X 7

See also Modular tiling / Calibrated tiles 120

Tolerances Tiles are made of natural raw materials and are subject to material and production related tolerances. Permissible tolerances are laid down as minimum requirements in the product standard EN 14411.

Underfloor heating Underfloor heating is part of the surface heating group. Due to their very good thermal conductivity and heat storage capacity, ceramic tiles are the ideal covering in conjunction with underfloor heating.

UPEC The UPEC classification for floor tiles applies in France. It can also be referred to in other countries, however.

Vapour diffusion resistance According to DIN EN ISO 12572, for vitreous (Blb) and porcelain stoneware tiles (Bla), the vapour diffusion resistance is approx, Îź 120,000 and, for nonvitreous tiles, approx. Îź 100,000 (without joints).

Joints do not permit diffusion. velvetYstone The velvety soft character of the surface of velvetYstone tiles is palpable. Their innovative finish also gives these tiles a silky sheen.

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vilbostone vilbostone porcelain stoneware tiles from Villeroy & Boch meet the highest aesthetic and technical quality standards. Thanks to the special hardness and density of the material, they have a long service life, are robust, colourfast and resistant to both chemicals and frost for inside and outside areas. vilbostoneplus vilbostonep plus further enhances the properties of matt and polished porcelain stoneware tiles: during the manufacturing process, the structure of the tile surface is sealed to such an extent as to further increase the tilesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; resistance to staining and dirt, as a result of which subsequent treatment of tiles with impregnating agents becomes unnecessary.

Vitreous Traditional term for fine ceramic tiles with low water absorption (DIN EN 14411 group B I b ; B II a ; B II b).

Villeroy & Boch only supplies glazed vitreous tiles in compliance with EN 14411, Group BIb. See also â&#x20AC;&#x153;Porcelain stoneware tilesâ&#x20AC;?.

Water absorption (WA) in compliance with EN ISO 10545-3 The weight gain in % of the tile and slab sample saturated in water compared to the dry weigh.

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Wearing properties / deep-abrasion resistance in compliance with EN ISO 10545-6 Abrasion of the biscuit on unglazed porcelain stoneware tiles as a result of wear.

Resistance to deep abrasion: Maximum volume loss of 175 mm³.

Wear-resistance groups The wear resistance class defines the wearing properties of tiles in glazed vitreous and provides a basis on which to choose floor tiles.

Work size The dimension of a tile determined during manufacture that has to agree with the actual production size within the specified permissible tolerances.

See “Tile sizes”

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