Installation Guide – Bottocino 1″x4″ Herringbone Beige Marble Mosaic Tile

Material Notes

• Natural Bottocino beige marble with warm cream and light tan undertones and a honed (matte) finish.
• 1″x4″ linear strips factory-mounted in a herringbone pattern (typical sheet ≈ 12″x12″; some lots may be paper-faced or mesh-backed).
• Recommended for walls, backsplashes, shower surrounds, and light-traffic residential floors. Numerous grout joints offer added slip resistance compared to large-format tiles.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

• Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, stable, and flat (≤ 1/8″ variation in 10′; ideally ≤ 1/16″). Patch or level low areas as necessary.
• Approved substrates: cement backer board, properly cured concrete, or mortar bed compliant with ANSI standards.
• For wet areas, apply an ANSI A118.10-compliant waterproofing membrane; shower floors must have a 1/4″ per foot slope to the drain.
• Always use white thin-set mortars under light-colored marble to avoid shadowing or discoloration.

Step 2: Dry Layout & Planning

• Mix sheets from multiple boxes to balance natural shade and veining variations typical of Bottocino marble.
• Mark level and plumb reference lines to guide the herringbone angle and maintain straight alignment.
• Stagger sheet seams for an invisible mesh transition; trim edges to ensure tight interlocking joints.
• Plan cuts at edges and fixtures to avoid narrow slivers and to maintain pattern flow around corners or niches.

Step 3: Adhesive (White Thin-Set) Application

Use:

• White, polymer-modified thin-set mortar for natural stone (ANSI A118.4/A118.15). Do not use premixed mastic adhesives in wet environments.

Trowel & Technique:

• Use a 3/16″ V-notch or 1/4″×3/16″ V-notch trowel for flat surfaces.
• Spread thin-set evenly, comb in one direction, and flatten the ridges to prevent telegraphing through the narrow marble strips.
• Work in small sections (cover within 10–15 minutes) to avoid skinning of the adhesive.

Step 4: Setting the Sheets

• Align the first sheet to your guide lines; press firmly using a rubber grout float or beating block to achieve full contact.
• Use wedge spacers to maintain consistent joints and herringbone angles.
• Back-butter individual strips when necessary to correct mesh irregularities and minimize lippage.
• Clean any excess thin-set immediately with a barely damp sponge or microfiber cloth.
• If paper-faced: lightly wet paper after 10–20 minutes, remove it carefully, and adjust joints before mortar sets.

Step 5: Cutting & Detailing

• Use a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade suitable for marble. Apply painter’s tape over the cut line to reduce chipping.
• For detailed trimming, use mosaic nippers carefully and smooth exposed cuts with a rubbing stone.
• Finish exposed edges with stone trims, metal profiles, or matching marble moldings.

Step 6: Grouting (Honed Marble)

• Allow thin-set to cure for at least 24 hours before grouting.
• For joints ≤ 1/8″, use unsanded grout; for wider joints (~1/8″–3/16″), select a fine-aggregate grout approved for marble and test first to prevent scratching.
• Optionally apply a grout release or pre-sealer on light beige marble to avoid pigment absorption. Choose a light neutral grout color for a natural tone.
• Fill joints diagonally with a rubber float; clean using minimal water to prevent shading or washout.

Step 7: Sealing

• After grout cures (≈72 hours), apply a penetrating sealer designed for marble and grout. Choose a natural-look or matte-finish formula to preserve the honed texture.
• Reapply sealer every 1–2 years in high-use or wet environments.

Maintenance

• Clean with pH-neutral, non-acidic cleaners made for marble; avoid acidic products, vinegar, bleach, or abrasives that can etch the stone.
• In wet areas, dry or squeegee after each use to minimize mineral buildup; use only marble-safe scale removers if needed.

Movement Joints

• Honor structural and expansion joints per TCNA EJ171 guidelines at perimeters and changes of plane.
• Use a 100% silicone, stone-safe sealant at corners and where tile meets dissimilar materials.

Important Notes & Disclaimer

• Natural Bottocino marble varies in color and veining; dry-lay and blend sheets before installation for the most consistent appearance.
• Do not apply high-gloss or topical coatings unless a polished/enhanced look is specifically desired; such products alter the honed finish.
• Stonemarket USA is not liable for substrate issues or improper installation. Professional installation is recommended for best results.