Dolomite Marble Mosaic Tile – Strip Linear Polished White

Installation Guide – Dolomite Strip Linear Mosaic Tile (Polished Marble)

Material Notes

• Natural white dolomite marble with a polished finish.
• Linear strip mosaics, typically mesh-mounted (sheet ~12″x12″). Some lots may be paper-faced.
• Suitable for walls, backsplashes, shower surrounds, and light-traffic residential floors. In wet zones, confirm slip requirements.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

• Substrate must be clean, dry, and flat (≤1/8″ in 10′). Correct high/low spots with patch/skim coat.
• Approved substrates: cement backer board, cured concrete, or mortar bed meeting ANSI standards.
• Wet areas: install ANSI A118.10 waterproofing membrane per manufacturer instructions.

Step 2: Dry Layout & Planning

• Blend sheets from multiple boxes to distribute subtle shade/vein variation inherent to dolomite.
• Snap level reference lines to keep linear courses perfectly straight.
• Stagger sheet seams and trim mesh edges so strips interlock and the sheet grid disappears.
• Plan perimeter/obstacle cuts to avoid slivers and maintain continuous lines.

Step 3: Adhesive (White Thin-Set) Application

Use:

• White, polymer-modified thin-set (ANSI A118.4/A118.15) rated for natural stone. Avoid mastic/premixed adhesives.

Trowel & Technique:

• 3/16″ V-notch (or 1/4″x3/16″ V-notch) on flat substrates.
• Key in with flat side, comb in one direction, then lightly flatten ridges to prevent telegraphing through thin strips.
• Work in small areas (10–15 min open time) to avoid skinning. Always use white thin-set to prevent shadowing/picture-framing on light dolomite.

Step 4: Setting the Sheets

• Align the first sheet to your reference line; press in using a rubber grout float or beating block for full contact and a flat plane.
• Use wedge spacers to keep long linear joints straight and uniform.
• Back-butter individual strips where needed to correct plane; lift and reset immediately if lippage occurs.
• Clean squeeze-through thin-set from joints and faces right away with a damp sponge.
• If paper-faced: set paper-out, beat in, lightly wet paper after initial grab (≈10–20 min), remove paper, true up joints.

Step 5: Cutting & Detailing

• Use a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade for marble; tape cut lines to minimize chip-out.
• For tiny trims, use mosaic nippers sparingly; dress exposed cuts with a rubbing stone.
• Finish exposed edges with stone trim, metal profiles, or matching moldings.

Step 6: Grouting (Polished Marble)

• Allow thin-set to cure (typically 24 hours).
• Use unsanded grout for joints ≤1/8″ to avoid scratching the polished surface. For wider joints, select a fine-aggregate, marble-safe grout and test first.
• Consider a marble-safe grout release or pre-seal to reduce pigment uptake on white dolomite.
• Pack joints diagonally with a rubber float; clean with minimal water to prevent washout or shading.

Step 7: Sealing

• After grout cures (typically 72 hours), apply a penetrating, breathable sealer approved for marble and grout.
• Re-seal periodically (e.g., every 1–2 years in wet zones) per use and exposure.

Maintenance

• Clean with pH-neutral, non-abrasive stone cleaners only; avoid acids, vinegar, bleach, or abrasive pads.
• In showers, squeegee/wipe dry after use to limit mineral deposits; use marble-safe scale removers if needed.

Movement Joints

• Honor structural joints and provide soft joints per TCNA EJ171 at perimeters and changes of plane.
• Use 100% silicone (stone-safe) at inside corners and where tile meets dissimilar materials.

Important Notes & Disclaimer

• Natural dolomite varies in tone/vein; blend sheets before setting. Expect slight size/thickness tolerances common to mosaics.
• Always use white thin-set beneath light marble to avoid shadowing.
• Stonemarket USA is not responsible for substrate issues or improper installation. Professional installation is recommended.