Tips & Tricks

Installing Natural Stone

Clarens Natural Stone does offer installation services, but for those who prefer to do it themselves, some helpful hints:

Always make sure that the surface to be tiled is in good condition, integrally sound, and is of a quality and consistency suitable for tiling.
The surface must be clean and free of all traces of shutter release and curing agents, laitance and any other surface contaminants, preferably by scarifying or sandblasting.
Dense or smooth surfaces must be primed with a Bonding liquid slurry prior to the adhesive application.
Should the installation require waterproofing, i.e. showers or balconies, the substrate should be waterproofed prior to commencing tiling.
The waterproofing Installation must be allowed to cure completely before tiling is commenced.
This installation can be carried out using any good quality adhesive.
We recommend that a bonding liquid is used when natural stone is installed.
In all natural tiling installations it is imperative that each tile is solidly bedded in the adhesive.
We would recommend the use of a notched trowel with 10 x 10mm notches.

Grouting must not be carried out until sufficient bond has developed between the bedding mix and the tiles to preclude disturbance of the tiles during the grouting operation.
Allow a minimum of 4 hours before grouting.
The grout, whether it is for internal or external use, should be suitable for joints up to 8mm wide. A stain free grout is recommended.

Natural Stone tiles can be cleaned using the following methods:

Always seal stone tiles. The sealer acts as protective layer that protects the wall tiles from dust & stain.
Protect the tiles from dust and stain by cleaning the wall tiles with a vacuum cleaner using a soft brush attachment instead of a metallic or plastic device.
Avoid the use of tile cleaners on stone tiles, since they can fade the color of the wall tiles. Clean the walls with a soft cloth and mild water. A regular wiping session prevents the deposition of harmful chemicals on the natural stone tile.
Do not place your hands on the stone wall tiles - oil or dirt on the hand can lead to staining of the wall. Clean these stains as soon as possible to avoid the absorption of oils inside the stone tile.
Care and maintenance tips will be highly beneficial for the everlasting beauty of your wall tiles

During grouting make sure to remove all excess grout from the surface with clean water.
Attempting to clean the grout off the surface with dirty water and/or a dirty cloth or sponge does not clean the surface.
After the grout has dried use Grout Off, diluted to the correct solution, to remove any residues, since these will impair the finish after sealing and will result in a very expensive repair.
Do not place your hands on the stone wall tiles - oil or dirt on the hand can lead to staining of the wall. Clean these stains as soon as possible to avoid the absorption of oils inside the stone tile
Care and maintenance tips will be highly beneficial for the everlasting beauty of your wall tiles