Installation Guide – Star Square Honed Marble Mosaic Tile (Royal Beige & Dolomite)

Material Notes

• Two-stone blend: Royal Beige marble and Dolomite, both with a honed (matte) finish.
• Mesh-mounted mosaic sheets with factory-set spacing; minor variation in tone and veining is inherent to natural stone.
• Suitable for walls, backsplashes, shower surrounds, and light-traffic residential floors. Honed marble offers improved slip resistance compared to polished finishes.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

• Substrate must be clean, dry, structurally sound, and flat (≤1/8″ over 10′). Patch or skim as needed.
• Approved substrates include cement backer board, cured concrete, or a mortar bed meeting ANSI standards.
• For wet areas, install an ANSI A118.10 compliant waterproofing membrane per manufacturer guidelines.

Step 2: Dry Layout & Color Blending

• Dry-lay multiple sheets and blend Royal Beige and Dolomite pieces evenly across the installation area.
• Snap level reference lines to maintain straight courses and balanced cuts at edges and fixtures.
• Trim mesh edges as needed and stagger sheet seams to eliminate visible grid lines.

Step 3: Adhesive (White Thin-Set) Application

Adhesive:

• Use a white, polymer-modified thin-set suitable for natural stone (ANSI A118.4 or A118.15). White mortar prevents discoloration beneath the Dolomite.
• Avoid premixed mastics, especially in wet or heat-exposed areas.

Trowel & Technique:

• Recommended trowel: 3/16″ V-notch or 1/4″ × 3/16″ V-notch on properly prepared substrates.
• Key mortar into the surface, comb in one direction, then flatten ridges lightly to avoid telegraphing through small mosaic pieces.
• Work in manageable sections to prevent skinning.

Step 4: Setting the Sheets

• Align sheets to layout lines and press firmly using a rubber grout float or beating block.
• Maintain factory spacing; do not butt joints. Use wedge spacers if required.
• Back-butter individual pieces if needed to correct plane or ensure full coverage.
• Remove excess thin-set from joints and tile faces immediately using a soft, lightly damp sponge.

Step 5: Cutting & Detailing

• Use a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade designed for marble.
• Apply painter’s tape along cut lines to minimize chipping.
• Finish exposed edges with stone trim, metal profiles, or coordinating moldings.

Step 6: Grouting (Honed Marble)

• Allow thin-set to cure fully (typically 24 hours).
• Use unsanded grout for joints ≤1/8″ to protect the marble surface.
• Color tip: warm light beige or soft neutral grout tones complement Royal Beige marble. Test before full installation.
• Optional: apply a marble-safe grout release or pre-seal to reduce pigment absorption.
• Grout diagonally with a rubber float and clean using minimal water.

Step 7: Sealing

• After grout cures (approximately 72 hours), apply a penetrating, breathable sealer approved for marble and grout.
• Reapply sealer periodically depending on exposure and usage (typically every 1–2 years).

Maintenance

• Clean with pH-neutral, non-abrasive stone cleaners only.
• Avoid acidic or abrasive products, including vinegar, bleach, or scouring pads.
• In wet areas, wipe surfaces dry after use to reduce mineral buildup.

Movement Joints

• Follow TCNA EJ171 guidelines for expansion and movement joints.
• Use 100% stone-safe silicone at changes of plane, corners, and transitions.

Important Notes & Disclaimer

• Natural stone exhibits variation in color and veining; dry-blend sheets prior to installation.
• Always use white thin-set to protect light-colored stone components.
• StoneMarket USA is not responsible for improper installation or substrate conditions. Professional installation is strongly recommended.