Installation Guide – Carrara 1"x2" Herringbone Mosaic Tile (Polished Marble)

Material Notes

• Natural Carrara marble, polished finish.
• 1"x2" chips, mesh-mounted in a herringbone pattern (sheet size ~12"x12").
• Suitable for walls, backsplashes, and light-traffic floors. In wet areas, confirm slip requirements; many grout lines add traction but polished stone can be slippery when soapy.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

• Substrate must be clean, dry, flat (≤1/8" in 10′), and structurally sound.
• Approved substrates: cement backer board, properly cured concrete, or mortar bed.
• Wet areas: install an ANSI A118.10 waterproofing membrane per manufacturer instructions.

Step 2: Dry Layout & Planning

• Dry-lay multiple sheets to blend shade/vein variations and confirm herringbone flow (arrows on the back often indicate orientation).
• Snap level reference lines; plan symmetrical cuts at perimeters and around fixtures.
• Stagger sheet seams to avoid a visible grid. Trim mesh edges if needed for tight interlock.

Step 3: Adhesive (White Thin-Set) Application

Use:

• White, polymer-modified thin-set mortar suitable 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 the flat side, comb in one direction, then lightly flatten ridges to prevent telegraphing through mosaics.
• Work small areas (10–15 minutes of open time) to prevent skinning.

Step 4: Setting Sheets

• Place sheets along layout lines, maintaining pattern alignment across seams.
• Press in with a rubber grout float or beating block to achieve full contact and a flat plane.
• Lift and adjust if needed; replace or realign individual chips where mesh causes misalignment.
• Immediately clean squeeze-through thin-set from joints and faces with a damp sponge.

Step 5: Cutting & Detailing

• Use a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade rated for marble.
• For tiny trims, use mosaic nippers sparingly; dress cut edges 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.
• Consider a marble-safe grout release or pre-seal to reduce pigment uptake on light Carrara.
• Pack joints diagonally with a rubber float; clean with minimal water to prevent washout.

Step 7: Sealing

• After grout cures (typically 72 hours), apply a penetrating, marble-safe sealer to stone and grout.
• Re-seal periodically based on use/exposure (e.g., 1–2 years in wet zones).

Maintenance

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

Movement Joints

• Honor building expansion 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 other materials.

Important Notes & Disclaimer

• Always use white thin-set beneath light Carrara to prevent shadowing.
• Natural marble varies in tone/vein; blend from multiple boxes.
• Stonemarket USA is not responsible for improper installation or substrate issues. Professional installation is recommended.