Bonding Tile and Stone to Steel Substrates

More and more frequently, unusual substrates including steel, metal, and aluminium are being used in tile or stone installations. Swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, elevator cabs, and cooler floors and walls frequently have a steel surface on which to bond tile. Below are methods to properly install tile to these substrates. 

The preferred method for installation over steel is; 

• Steel, metal or aluminium substrate must be rigid and meet the maximum allowable standard for deflection of L/360 for ceramic tile or L/480 for stone tile 

• Tack weld or mechanically fasten 1.8kg/m2 galvanized or otherwise suitable diamond metal lath over the steel surface in accord with good trade practice to provide an adequate structural connection for this installation and sufficient space for adequate mortar thickness behind. 

• Apply a scratch and leveling coat of 3701 Fortified Mortar Bed; or, 3701 Mortar Admix mixed with 226 Thick Bed Mortar to encapsulate and fill the lath. 

• After the mortar hardens, HYDRO BAN® may be installed where specified. 

• Tile may be installed with 254, 335 or 4237 Latex Additive mixed with 211. In areas where a more chemically resistant adhesive is necessary (or when installing water-sensitive marble or agglomerate) install with LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive. 

• When the tile has set firm, grout with SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout*; or, PERMACOLOR® Grout. For areas subjected to food acids, harsh chemicals or extreme heat use SPECTRALOCK 2000 IG. 

• Steel or aluminium must be rigid, meet the maximum allowable standard for deflection of L/360 for ceramic tile or L/480 for stone tile, and be free of rust, dirt, paint, manufacturing oils, or other surface contamination. 

• The steel manufacturer/contractor must inspect steel for any signs of rust or corrosion. Clean, remove, passivate steel in accord with steel manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure that rust/corrosion is completely removed prior to tiling. 

• Wash steel surface with strong detergent to ensure that all manufacturing oils are removed, rinse completely, and allow to dry. Refer to steel manufacturer’s guidelines for steel surface preparation when cladding with tile or stone if any. 

• Install tile or stone with LATAPOXY 300 Adhesive by following instructions outlined in DS-1047. 

• Grout tile or stone with SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout; or, PERMACOLOR Grout. For areas subjected to food acids, harsh chemicals or extreme heat use SPECTRALOCK 2000 IG.

Or, the alternative method for installation over steel is; 

For more information read Technical Data Sheet TDS-1146.

For more information on LATICRETE permanent trouble-free installation products, training, or technical advice, contact your local LATICRETE representative on 1800 331 012 - or email: sales@laticrete.com.au

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)

LATICRETE Training at Your Fingertips

We know that traveling and attending training is not always possible, so we make it easy. Our LATICRETE University e-Learning Program makes it possible for anyone within the industry to train on industry standards and Profit Through Knowledge (PTK) Technical Seminars from the comfort of your home or office. Now anyone can receive quality education that is usually only provided during live training, at their fingertips.

Here's how it works:

• Register for FREE
• Watch short video tutorials on a variety of different topics
• Take a short test that will measure your knowledge
• Upon the successful completion of a segment, a training certificate is provided  

LATICRETE University covers a wide range of topics which include: understanding deflection, how to install reduced thickness porcelain tiles, how to apply liquid waterproofing membrane, an introduction to Masonry Veneer Installation Systems - plus more! 

Click here to register for LATICRETE University.

For more information on using LATICRETE in your projects, product demos, samples or technical support, contact LATICRETE on 1800 331 012 or email us here. 

Product Demos with Ireland Tiling

Last week LATICRETE caught up on-site with the team from Ireland Tiling in Ferny Creek, VIC. The team received hands-on training with HYDRO BAN® waterproofing and discussed the benefits of 3701 Fortified Mortar Bed. 

LATICRETE is committed to educating and providing technical support. We provide on-site technical support and demos, as well as in-house structured and tailored, product-specific courses that cover commercial, residential, industrial tile & stone installation practices, and industry standards. 

Contact us to discuss your next project. Do you require technical support on your job site, or want FREE product samples? Call 1800 331 012 or email us here.

Epoxy Grout Training at Elegance Tiles

Want to learn more about SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout*? Join LATICRETE and the team from Tilers Warehouse at Elegance Tiles Pakenham, VIC, on Thursday 13th February for epoxy grout training and FREE brekky! 

This is a great opportunity to chat with your local LATICRETE Technical Sales Rep, Corey Downes, and learn more about how SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout can turn your project into another globally proven tile and stone installation. 

Product of focus:

• SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout is a high-performance epoxy grout that offers colour durability and stain resistance with extraordinary ease of use. It can be used for interior, exterior, and immersed applications. 

Trade Event Details:

Where: Elegance Tiles 

Address: 53 Bald Hill Rd, Pakenham, VIC 3810

Date: 13 February 2020

Start: 7:00am - 9:00am 

RSVP: 

Tilers Warehouse - 03 9704 5927

We hope to see you there! 

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)

On-Site With iTrowel

Recently LATICRETE Technical Sales Rep Corey Downes caught up on-site with Ryan from iTrowel in VIC. Ryan received his certificate for completing the LATICRETE HYDRO BAN® waterproofing training course. Well done Ryan! 

LATICRETE is committed to educating and providing technical support. We provide on-site technical support and demos, as well as in-house structured and tailored, product specific courses that cover commercial, residential, industrial tile & stone installation practices and industry standards. 

Contact us to discuss your next project. Do you require technical support on your job site, or want FREE product samples? Call 1800 331 012 or email us here.

LATICRETE Training at Your Fingertips

We know that traveling and leaving your business behind to attend training is not always possible, so we make it easy. Our LATICRETE University e-Learning Program makes it possible for anyone within the industry to train on industry standards and Profit Through Knowledge (PTK) Technical Seminars from the comfort of your home or office. Now anyone can receive quality education that is usually only provided during live training, at their fingertips.

Here's how it works:

• Register for FREE
• Watch short video tutorials on a variety of different topics
• Take a short test that will measure your knowledge
• Upon the successful completion of a segment, a training certificate is provided  

LATICRETE University covers a wide range of topics which include: understanding deflection, how to install reduced thickness porcelain tiles, how to apply liquid waterproofing membrane, an introduction to Masonry Veneer Installation Systems - plus more! 

Click here to register for LATICRETE University.

For more information on using LATICRETE in your projects, product demos, samples or technical support, contact LATICRETE on 1800 331 012 or email us here. 

Causes and Prevention of Efflorescence

Ever wondered what efflorescence is and how it occurs? The occurrence of efflorescence is a potential problem whenever Portland cement products are used. There have been many industry articles and resources available that speak on the issue of efflorescence - It is important to note that efflorescence is not considered a defect of the installation materials, but rather a naturally occurring issue common to all Portland cement based products. 

The best way to prevent efflorescence is to better understand what it is and how it happens. Three things have to happen for efflorescence to become a problem: 

• There must be soluble salts present (these salts are present in Portland cement products from the manufacturing process). 
• Water must be present in the setting bed, mortar bed and/or grout. 
• Some type of force (evaporation, gravity, capillary movement, etc.) has to bring the salts to the surface of the installation.

Salts can then be put into solution and brought to the surface. If all 3 things occur then the water evaporates, the salts remain on the surface where they react with carbon dioxide in the air. The reaction turns the salts into a visible white material that collects on the surface. These salts can be calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, or calcium hydroxide depending on the source of the Portland cement raw materials and any additives that may have been added to the concrete or mortar.

Eliminating any of the 3 needed circumstances will eliminate the occurrence of efflorescence. For more information on the best ways to help minimise the occurrence of efflorescence, read the full Technical Data Sheet TDS-1159.

Contact us to discuss your next project, arrange a demo or your FREE samples by calling 1800 331 012 or contact us here.

Grout Training with Deemah Stone

Joe Tabone, LATICRETE NSW Technical Sales Rep, conducted grout training with the team from Deemah Stone. Joe discussed a range of tips and correct processes to mix, install, clean up and protect LATICRETE grouts. The team also had to opportunity to participate in hands-on training with PERMACOLOR® Grout, and SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout*. 

• SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout is a high performance epoxy grout that offers colour durability and stain resistance with extraordinary ease of use. Can be used for interior, exterior and immersed applications. 
• PERMACOLOR Grout - offers the maximum performance available in a cement based grout, providing consistent colour and antimicrobial protection to resist stain-causing mould and mildew. PERMACOLOR Grout is easy to install - just mix with water.

Are you interested in hands-on training for your team? Contact us to arrange a trade event, a demo or for technical support, call 1800 331 012 or email sales@laticrete.com.au.

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)

Are You Interested in Hands-on Training?

Brad Lending a Helping Hand

Corey Downes, LATICRETE VIC Technical Sales Rep, had a helping hand from Brad Smith, LATICRETE VIC Warehouse Storeman, in preparing tile boards for upcoming SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout* training and demos.

Are you interested in hands-on training for your team?

We provide customised in-store and job site training and demos, trade events at your store, FREE product samples, and customised specifications for YOUR project!

For more info on upcoming events around your area, check out the Seminars page on our website, or keep up to date with the Trade Events by following us Facebook.

Contact us to arrange a trade event, a demo, customised training for your team, or for technical support, call 1800 331 012 or email sales@laticrete.com.au.

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)

LATICRETE is Committed to Training!

Shane Anderson, LATICRETE QLD Technical Sales Rep, conducted training with LATICRETE employees on SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout*, where they had the opportunity to learn and get their hands dirty testing out their grouting skills! 

LATICRETE is committed to fine tuning the skills of our team in supporting architects, specifiers and tile & stone construction professionals. 

Are you interested in hands-on training for your team? 

We provide customised in-store and job site training and demos, trade events at your store, provide FREE product samples, and customised specifications for YOUR project! 

For more info on upcoming events around your area, check out the Seminars page on our website, or keep up to date with the Trade Events by following us Facebook.

Contact us to arrange a trade event, a demo or for technical support, call 1800 331 012 or email sales@laticrete.com.au.

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)

Training the Next Generation

LATICRETE NSW Technical Sales Rep, Craig Hunter, had the opportunity to facilitate training to 3rd year students at Newcastle TAFE. The focus of training was on epoxy grout - SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout*. 

Students were actively keen in learning both in the classroom and with hands-on training. Well done to the TAFE students.

SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout is an epoxy grout designed for use on ceramic tile, glass tile and stone applications, both in residential and commercial. Great for re-grouting both interior and exterior on floors and walls. SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout is perfect for swimming pools, fountains and other wet area applications.

At LATICRETE we are committed to training and classes that discuss commercial, residential, industrial tile and stone installation practices and industry standards. Our training utilises both classroom and hands-on product demonstrations.

Contact us to arrange a training for your team, a demo, FREE samples or for technical support, call 1800 331 012 or email sales@laticrete.com.au.

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)

Waterproofing Seminar

Last week LATICRETE Australia held a FREE Waterproofing Profit Through Knowledge (PTK) Seminar at the LATICRETE Training Centre in QLD.  Attendees were actively involved in discussions, classroom learning, and hands-on demonstrations using HYDRO BAN® waterproofing and crack isolation membrane and HYDRO BAN Fillet and Sealant. 

• HYDRO BAN® is a thin, load bearing waterproofing/crack isolation membrane that DOES NOT require the use of fabric in the field, coves or corners. HYDRO BAN is a single component, self curing liquid rubber polymer that forms a flexible, seamless waterproofing membrane. 
• HYDRO BAN Fillet & Sealant is a one component, fast curing, hybrid elastomeric adhesive and sealant. This product is specifically formulated to meet today’s Green Building Standards and has excellent adhesion on a wide variety of substrates.

These events are the most effective way of learning about LATICRETE products that can improve your knowledge about our industry or prepare you for your upcoming projects. Interaction on this level is second to none.

For more information on the upcoming PTK's and to book your seat, click here.

Contact us to arrange training for your team, a demo, FREE samples or for technical support, call 1800 331 012 or email sales@laticrete.com.au.

Pool Tiling Seminar a Hit!

   

LATICRETE NSW Technical and Sales team recently held a FREE, Pool Tiling Installations Systems Seminar at the LATICRETE Training Centre in NSW.

In attendance was a cross section of industry professionals, including: Sunrise Pools, Knew Bee, Endless Landscapes, Nik Banovic Pool Tiling, Bayset and C-Corp Exclusive Design . 

Attendees were actively involved in discussions, classroom learning and hands-on demonstrations using LATICRETE products. The seminar covered everything from substrate preparation right through to grouts, for successful pool tiling installations within the LATICRETE Pool, Spa and Fountain Tiling System.

Feedback from Sunrise Pools ~ "Big Thank you to @laticreteaustralia for putting on today’s training session. Keeping our team on top of the different substrates, suitable preparation, moisture shield, the renders, grouts, adhesives and curing times all aids in a smoother operation."

We are committed to training and classes that discuss commercial, residential, industrial tile and stone installation practices and industry standards. Our training utilises both classroom and hands-on product demonstrations.

Contact us to arrange training for your team, a demo, FREE samples or for technical support, call 1800 331 012 or email sales@laticrete.com.au.

Upcoming QLD Waterproofing Seminar

HYDRO BAN® Waterproofing Membrane Training

Seminar in QLD: 28th August 2019

This seminar is a short, concise training program specifically developed for waterproofing installation contractors, distributors, dealers and other industry professionals who want to improve their knowledge and increase their productivity as they become familiar with HYDRO BAN® Waterproofing & Crack Suppression Membrane that meets the new mandatory AS4654.1 standard.

Course Outline:

• Regulations & standards

• Contractors responsibilities 

• Products

• Waterproofing issues

• Hands-on experience 

• Assessment

• Contractors HYDRO BAN certificate 

Where: LATICRETE Technical Training Centre, QLD 
Date: Wednesday, 28th August 2018
Time: 7.30am - 12.00pm

Contact 

LATICRETE for more information and to book your seat.
Phone: 1800 331 012 
Email: seminars@laticrete.com.au

Be quick to book your seat - spots are limited! RSVP by Wednesday 23rd August, 2019.

How to Grout with SPECTRALOCK®

Easy to Install, Easy to Clean-up! 

SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout* installs as easily as regular cement grout but provides the colour uniformity, stain protection and durability you can only get with an epoxy. The non-sag formula makes installation even easier and helps achieve full, flush grout joints. SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout can be used for interior or exterior applications on floors and walls.

SURFACE PREPARATION

• Ensure the tile surface has no residual film from adhesive setting material.
• The use of a topical sealer or grout release applied to unglazed porcelain tile, abrasive, non-slip or rough textured tiles or porous tile or stone surfaces before grouting will facilitate cleaning.
• SPECTRALOCK PRO Premium Grout, as well as other sanded grouts, may “scratch” glass tiles, soft or polished marble and stone, soft glazed and handmade tiles.
• Test grout on a small area to ensure compatibility.
• Test stone for compatibility with water and cleaning additive mixture.
• Epoxy resins may affect the colour of white or light coloured porous stones (such as White Carrara, Thassos White, Royal Danby, etc.).
• Make sure tile adhesive and bedding are dry prior to grout application, and free from debris, grout spacers or standing water.
• Surface temperature range for installation must be above 4°C and less than 35°C.

WORKING TIME

Working time of grout is approximately 80 minutes at 21°C after the components are thoroughly mixed. Please note that working time is affected by many variables including grout mix consistency, surface and room temperatures. Warmer climates, for example, will shorten working time, while colder conditions will extend working time.

For more information read Technical Data Sheet TDS-1008.

For more information on LATICRETE permanent trouble free installation products, training, or technical advice, contact your local LATICRETE Technical Sales Representative on 1800 331 012 - or email: sales@laticrete.com.au.

*United States Invention Patent No.: 6881768 (and other Patents)