Carrara White Polished Marble Tile 3″x12″ – Classic Elegance, Modern Linearity
Slim Sophistication for Custom Accents
The Carrara White Polished Marble Tile offers a compact yet luxurious format, perfect for refined borders, backsplashes, and intricate wall designs. Crafted from premium Carrara marble, each piece features iconic white tones highlighted by icy veining and a polished surface that brings depth and light into any space.
Its straight edge and linear shape make it an excellent choice for vertical or horizontal applications—ideal for fireplace trim, wall framing, or creating geometric patterns. Moreover, this format is a designer favorite for bringing dimension to kitchens and bathrooms without overwhelming the layout.
Product Features – Carrara White Polished Tile
- Material: Premium Carrara White Marble
- Finish: Polished – mirror-like surface for elegant shine
- Size: 3″x12″ (7.5 x 30.5 cm)
- Edge: Straight edge for clean installation lines
- Application: Indoor walls and accents
Design Advantages
- Perfect for decorative trims, edging, or framing large format tiles
- Ideal for backsplashes, shower niches, and fireplace borders
- Pairs beautifully with subway tiles or mosaic sheets
- Compact format encourages creative layouts and detailing
Installation Guide – Step by Step
Step 1: Surface Preparation – Clean, Flat & Dry
- Ensure the substrate is free of dust, oil, and any debris or old adhesive.
- Check for levelness using a short straightedge; correct irregularities with patch or leveling compound.
- For wet areas, apply a waterproof membrane for long-term protection.
Step 2: Layout Planning – Highlight Carrara’s Veining
- Mark layout lines for symmetry and proper alignment.
- Dry-lay several tiles to preview veining direction and natural tone variation.
- Pull from multiple boxes and blend tiles to achieve a balanced look.
- Use **1/16″ grout lines** for clean results with polished straight-edge tiles.
Step 3: Mortar Application – White Thin-Set Only
Recommended Mortar:
- Mapei Ultraflex 1 White
- Laticrete 254 Platinum White
- Ardex X5 White
Instructions:
- Use a 1/4″ V-notched trowel suitable for small-format tiles.
- Back-butter each tile to ensure full bond and eliminate hollow spots.
- Work in small sections to prevent thin-set from drying prematurely.
Step 4: Cutting & Fitting – Precision is Key
- Cut using a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade for clean edges.
- Polish visible cut edges for a refined appearance.
- Dry-fit before final setting to check alignment and spacing.
Step 5: Setting Tiles – Prevent Lippage
- Press tiles evenly into place using a slight twisting motion.
- Use spacers or tile wedges to maintain consistent joints.
- Wipe away any excess mortar from the polished surface immediately with a damp sponge.
- Allow adhesive to cure for 24 hours before grouting.
Step 6: Grouting & Sealing – Finish with Care
- Pre-seal the polished marble with a penetrating sealer before grouting to prevent staining.
- Use non-sanded grout to protect the glossy finish.
- Apply grout diagonally with a rubber float and clean joints promptly.
- Buff haze off the surface after 20–30 minutes using a soft cloth.
- Seal again after grout cures (typically 72 hours) to protect surface and joints.
Maintenance Tips – Preserve the Gloss
- Clean with pH-neutral, marble-safe products only.
- Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can etch the polished surface.
- Re-seal polished marble every 6–12 months based on location and use.
- Use protective pads or rugs in high-use zones.
Shipping & Packaging
Each 3″ x 12″ Carrara White Polished Marble Tile is securely packed with edge protection and foam layers. Inspect all tiles before installation to ensure uniformity and quality.
Important Note
Natural variation in veining and tone is inherent to Carrara marble. Always dry-lay and blend tiles prior to installation. Stonemarket USA assumes no responsibility for natural variation or improper installation.