IT IS RECOMMENDED TO USE QUALIFIED INSTALLERS
INSTRUCTION FOR DESIGN, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE ACCORDING TO UNI 11493 STANDARD
The standard defines the quality and performance of ceramic tiling, providing rules and instructions to be followed in the selection of materials, in the design, installation, use and maintenance, and specifies typical compliant solutions to ensure the achievement and maintenance over time of the required levels of quality and performance. This standard applies to ceramic floor and wall tiling, for both indoor and outdoor applications, installed mainly with adhesives, but also with cement mortar or other systems.
INSTALLATION
Before starting the installation of any surface, it is recommended to ensure that the batch of material is adequate and sufficient in terms of quantity, tone, and caliber for the required amount. All the rules and precautions that are the foundation of proper work execution must be followed (substrate preparation, mortar or adhesive composition, drying times, placement of expansion joints, tapping, etc.).
Installation with adhesives
The installation must be carried out by qualified personnel using appropriate tools. The surface on which the installation is carried out (screed) must be perfectly level. The recommended maximum deviation should not exceed 3 mm under a 2 m straightedge. The surface must be well cured, free of dust and visible cracks. Adequate lighting is strongly recommended during the installation. The choice of adhesive depends on the type of tiles (group and size), the surface to be covered, and its intended use. It is advisable to check the installation before the adhesive dries, to allow any corrections.
Installation with fresh mortar
Installation with fresh cement mortar or “thick-bed” method is not recommended for formats with sides > 30 cm or with non-absorbent substrates.
Joint creation
Joints are very important elements for maintaining a good tiled surface, and the collaboration and/or advice of a professional installer is recommended. No responsibility is accepted for installation without joints; installation with “minimum joint” is considered to be with 2 mm spacing.
Joints must be placed:
- On structural connections (structural joints);
- between floor and wall (perimeter joints);
- between one tile and another (installation joints or grout lines);
- between tiles and other materials (e.g. ceramic/linoleum/wood junction).
Grouting the installed surface
Before grouting, it is advisable to wait until the adhesive is completely dry and to ensure that the installation joints are empty and free of any adhesive residue and/or dust. Grout small surfaces at a time (4–5 m²). This is particularly important for structured, non-slip, and polished products. Remove excess grout from the surface with diagonal movements while the product is still wet and eliminate all residues, especially for outdoor surfaces. Clean thoroughly with a sponge soaked in clean water and wipe with a damp cloth over the entire surface, including the joints. For joints in strong color contrast with the installed tiles, it is advisable to test the grout in a limited and hidden area. For epoxy grouts, cleaning with a sponge and plenty of water is recommended. The fast reaction and hardening of these products make it impossible to remove residues after curing. The day after grouting, perform a complete cleaning with an alkaline detergent. It is advisable to consult grout manufacturers to verify the correct choice of grout for the type of tile.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE AFTER INSTALLATION
A site can be considered completely finished when cleared of all tools/materials from the work. To reduce the risk of damaging the tiled surface, it must be protected, and the presence of abrasive materials (dust or residues from subsequent work) should be minimized.
Initial cleaning
Post-installation washing is a crucial step for all subsequent work and proper maintenance. A thorough initial wash keeps floors attractive and protected for a long time, and is normally done once before use. It is recommended to perform the initial cleaning 4–5 days after grouting, and no later than 10 days. The grouted and cleaned surface may display a cement film that cannot be removed with water alone, requiring an acid-based product, properly diluted (1:10 to 1:4 in cold water) per manufacturer’s instructions. First, wet the tiled surface and especially the joints (which are typically not acid-resistant). Spread the prepared acidic solution and allow it to act briefly (approx. 2 minutes). Do not let it dry. Remove the solution using a single‑disc machine (non‑abrasive pad), wet‑vac or manually, then rinse thoroughly. Cleaning with machines (recommended for textured surfaces and large areas) must always be completed manually in hard-to-reach areas—corners, along walls, etc. Always test acid resistance on an unused tile or hidden area—especially for honed or polished products.
Do not use cleaners containing hydrofluoric acid (HF) or its derivatives.
Regular cleaning
Routine cleaning aims to remove dirt, erase marks and restore original appearance. Glazed porcelain tiles do not require protective treatments; proper, systematic cleaning is enough to maintain the surface. Use warm water with a soft cloth/sponge and neutral cleaners as needed. For large areas, industrial scrubber‑dryers may be used, with manual finishing where necessary.
Recommendations:
- Avoid scrubbing with abrasive tools (steel wool, stiff brushes) that could cause scratches;
- Remove greasy or oily residues with solvents or alkaline cleaners (pH > 9), followed by thorough rinsing;
- Avoid soaps—they tend to leave a greasy film, especially with hard water;
- Do not use waxes or polishes;
- Avoid abrasive cleaners on glossy or polished surfaces; they can be used on matte finishes after testing on a small tiled area.
In general, any non-neutral cleaner should first be tested on an unused tile or hidden section of the floor.
For technical information, material availability and pricing, contact CIPA GRES S.p.A. commercial office.