Installation Instructions
Before You Start
Choose the area you plan to tile and measure to determine how much tile you will need to purchase. Be sure you are
installing your Quarry Tile over a proper substrate. For outdoor installations this will most likely consist of a cement slab
that is dry, clean, rm, at, and that is properly prepared. For best results the concrete should be a minimum of 5” thick
and reinforced. Before beginning any tile installation it is important to familiarize yourself with all labels and packaging
instructions for the material you use. Wear proper safety equipment including safety glasses or goggles when working
with power or hand tools.
Preparing the Surface
When tiling over a cement slab, check the concrete to see if it has been treated, painted or sealed. You can do this by
pouring a small amount of water on the surface. If after two minutes or so the water has been absorbed, it is likely that
the concrete has not been treated and you can move on to cleaning. If, however, the water beads up, you should assume
the concrete has been treated and will require grinding to allow the thin-set to adhere. Once the surface is free of any
sealers, clean the concrete using a sti bristle brush and a solution of concrete cleaner and warm water. Thoroughly rinse
the surface with warm water. Repair any cracks in the concrete before proceeding with the installation. Finally, a slight
grade may need to be incorporated into the surface- using a concrete leveler- to keep water from pooling and to allow for
proper drainage. (Note: If there are fractures or cracks in the existing concrete slab, a crack isolation membrane is
recommended. Horizontal movement of the slab can cause fractures in the tile and/or grout. Vertical movement, or
heaving, of the slab can result in cracked or broken tiles. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper
substrate preparation and procedure.)
Laying out the Pattern
There are a few keys to remember when laying out a tile pattern for an outdoor application. The actual pattern itself can
be determined much in the same way as it would be for indoors. Using a grid system, consider how you want the space to
look beforehand. Then, determine what adjustments need to be made to make the pattern the most visually appealing.
To allow for expansion and contraction of the tile layer, include expansion joints wherever the tile meets a vertical
structure. Also, include expansion joints every 12 to 16 feet in each direction. When tiling a stoop or step, allow the top
(surface) pieces to overhang slightly and tuck the vertical pieces up and under leaving a normal grout joint.
Tile Setting
Tile setting outdoors over a concrete slab may require additional steps and consideration. Depending on the climate and
exposure to the elements it may be necessary to install a crack isolation membrane prior to setting the tile. This will help
prevent the cracking of the tile caused by movement of the slab during freeze thaw cycles. A latex modied thin-set
mortar is recommended. When setting the tile use the at side of the trowel to apply the thin-set – for a tight connection
to the slab – followed by the combed edge to create grooves – for maximum connection with the tile. When tiling on a
hot day outdoors, be careful not to work the thin-set too far out because it may dry out before the tile can be set.
Grouting the Tile
For outdoor tile installations it is recommended that a sanded grout be used, preferably one that is latex fortied, or
mixed with a latex additive for additional exibility. Before grouting make sure the thin-set has dried for a minimum of 24
hours (See grout manufacturers recommendations for minimum grouting temperature).
Tiling Outdoors
Installation Tips
INDOOR / OUTDOOR A product of Metropolitan Ceramics
UNGLAZED CERAMIC QUARRY TILE
Azulejos Cerámicos Cuadrados No Glaseados
®
Metropolitan Ceramics makes reasonable effort to place accurate information in this flyer. However, Metropolitan Ceramics assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in these installation tips.
For detailed information on installing ceramic tile outdoors we suggest you consult the Tile Council of North America Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation. www.tileusa.com
www.metroceramics.com
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