Installation & Assembly
How to Install Cement Tile
INSTALLATION TIPS & GUIDELINES
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7. Do not allow boxes to get wet. Store the boxes in a dry area. Moisture or dampness can cause tiles
to stain, fade, or create other damages on the surface.
8. Inspect the order carefully. Rustico Tile and Stone is not responsible for material that has been cut or
installed. Installation deems acceptance. Throughout the installation process and handling of the tile,
be careful not to damage the finished surface, edges, and corners of the tiles.
9. Cement tile is subject to color and shade variations from one tile to the next. It is recommended to
mix tiles from different boxes during the installation process.
10. Cement tile may have residue on its surface when it’s unpacked from the boxes. Before starting the
installation, it is recommended to clean the tiles with a dry cloth to remove this residue. This prevents the
residue from being smeared and sealed into the surface of the tile.
11. Cement tiles are porous and are not pre-sealed. Our 2-step sealer system is recommended.
A. Seal the tile with HydraGuard penetrating sealer before or after setting the tile with thinset. This is
a primer sealer which prepares the tile for TerraNano topcoat sealer. HydraGuard is a wipe on/wipe off
sealer. It spreads easily with a paint roller or paint pad. Do not leave any sealer on the surface for any
length of time. Wipe away excess sealer. There should be no excess sealer, residue or film on the
surface of the tile. This sealer dries within 10 minutes so work small sections of tile at a time.
B. Apply grout release. Grout release should be purchased at a local home improvement store.
HydraGuard alone is not sufficient as a grout release product (despite the bottle indicating it as a grout
release solution). A separate grout release is needed to protect the surface of the tile from staining with
grout haze. It is imperative that this step is not skipped.
C. Grout tile. It is imperative to clean all grout off of the surface of the tile.
D. After installation is complete and dry, apply TerraNano topcoat sealer. This topcoat sealer will
add scratch-resistance, UV protection, seals the grout, and provides your desired final sheen (extra low
gloss or gloss finish).
12. Cement tiles are installed edge to edge with minimal grout line. Use non-sanded grout which allows
for expansion. For larger grout lines, use sanded grout. The recommended grout joint is 1/16 – 1/2
inch. Joints should be free of all voids and pits. Once the grout has been applied and begins to dry,
remove excess grout immediately. Do not affix duct tape, gaffer tape, or acetate directly on cement tile
surface. These can discolor or stain your cement tiles.
Stage 2: Care and Inspection
Stage3:Seal, Grout, Seal