Installation Guide – Athena Blanc Rodas White 12×24 Porcelain Tile Natural Rectified
Important Advisory
Always follow Happy Floors installation instructions, applicable local building codes, and recognized industry standards such as ANSI A108/A118 and TCNA guidelines. Confirm that the selected substrate, setting materials, waterproofing, drainage, and movement-joint design are appropriate for the specific installation.
Step 1: Layout & Planning
- Verify that the substrate is clean, dry, structurally sound, and sufficiently flat for the selected tile installation.
- Dry-lay tiles and plan the layout to balance cuts at walls, corners, and other perimeter conditions.
- Inspect tiles before installation and blend material from multiple boxes to distribute normal shade and pattern variation.
- Plan movement joints and changes of plane in accordance with the project conditions and applicable industry guidance. Maintain a consistent joint width appropriate for rectified porcelain tile.
Step 2: Tile Installation
- Select a suitable mortar approved for porcelain tile and compatible with the substrate and application.
- Apply mortar according to the mortar manufacturer’s instructions, combing it consistently to support proper contact and bond.
- Set each tile with appropriate alignment and sufficient mortar coverage for its location. Periodically lift a tile to verify coverage and adjust the installation method when necessary.
- Use spacers or an appropriate leveling method as needed to maintain alignment and help control lippage.
- Allow the mortar to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before grouting or exposing the installation to traffic.
Step 3: Cutting
- Use a wet saw or other professional cutting equipment with a diamond blade suitable for porcelain tile.
- Measure and mark cuts carefully, supporting the tile during cutting to help minimize chipping.
- Ease or finish exposed cut edges where needed at transitions, corners, or other visible locations.
Step 4: Joint Filling
- Choose a grout compatible with porcelain tile, the selected joint width, and the intended application.
- Follow the grout manufacturer’s instructions for mixing, application, cleaning, and curing.
- Fill joints fully, clean excess grout from the tile surface promptly, and remove haze using methods recommended for the grout and porcelain.
- Use an appropriate flexible sealant at movement joints, changes of plane, and perimeter conditions instead of rigid grout.
Step 5: Cleaning & Maintenance
- Remove installation residue using products and procedures recommended for porcelain tile and the selected grout.
- Clean regularly with a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for porcelain surfaces.
- Avoid harsh abrasives and cleaning products that may damage grout or leave a film.
- Follow the grout manufacturer’s maintenance and sealing recommendations where applicable.
Disclaimer
Installation should be performed by qualified tile professionals. Always confirm actual material, lot variation, site conditions, and application suitability before installation. Stone Market USA is not responsible for problems resulting from improper installation, handling, substrate conditions, or failure to follow manufacturer and industry requirements.
