Installation Guide – Navona Grey Vein Cut 12×24 Porcelain Tile Natural Rectified
Important Advisory
Always follow the product manufacturer’s instructions, local building codes, and recognized industry standards (ANSI A108/A118 and TCNA guidelines). Verify substrate suitability, movement accommodation, and waterproofing/drainage where required.
Step 1: Layout & Planning
- Confirm the substrate is clean, dry, structurally sound, and flat within industry tolerances for 12×24 tile.
- Dry-lay to plan the layout, balance cuts, and avoid narrow slivers at perimeters and transitions.
- Blend tiles from multiple boxes to evenly distribute any shade or pattern variation.
- Select a joint width appropriate for rectified tile and the layout; include movement joints per TCNA EJ171.
Step 2: Tile Installation
- Use a polymer-modified thin-set mortar approved for porcelain; for 12×24 tiles, follow manufacturer guidance on using a large-and-heavy-tile (LHT) mortar where appropriate.
- Key mortar into the substrate, then comb in one direction with a suitable notched trowel; back-butter tiles to enhance bond and coverage.
- Set tiles with a slight back-and-forth motion to collapse ridges. Achieve coverage levels required by location and service (commonly 80–95%).
- Use a leveling system as needed to help minimize lippage on rectangular formats.
- Allow mortar to cure per manufacturer instructions before grouting or opening to light traffic.
Step 3: Cutting
- Cut with a wet saw using a premium diamond blade rated for porcelain.
- Measure and mark carefully; support the tile fully during cuts to reduce chipping.
- Ease sharp cut edges as needed for exposed transitions.
Step 4: Joint Filling
- Select a grout suitable for porcelain and the chosen joint width; follow manufacturer directions for mixing, application, and cure.
- Pack joints completely with a rubber float, clean diagonally, and remove haze promptly with clean water.
- Use appropriate sealants at movement joints and all changes of plane; do not grout these areas.
- Protect the installation from traffic until grout has cured.
Step 5: Cleaning & Maintenance
- Clean routinely with a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for porcelain; avoid acids and harsh abrasives.
- Use entry mats and felt pads where appropriate to limit tracked-in grit and scratching.
- Follow grout and setting material manufacturers’ maintenance recommendations; reseal cementitious grout if advised.
Disclaimer
Installation should be performed by qualified professionals. Always confirm actual materials, lot-to-lot variations, and suitability for specific applications before installation. Stone Market USA is not responsible for issues arising from improper installation, handling, or site conditions.
