INTRODUCTION:(How to install natural stone tiles in Pakistan)
When you decide to install natural stone tiles, you’re choosing a timeless and enduring material that brings an element of elegance to any room. Whether you want to cover your floor tiles in the kitchen, bathroom, or even an outdoor patio, these tiles are a popular choice among homeowners looking to create a luxurious and beautiful environment. Natural stone tiles, including marble, granite, and quartz, come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, offering endless possibilities to enhance your spaces. Not only do they provide a beautiful aesthetic, but they also have the longevity and durability needed for long-lasting use, which makes them a top pick for both indoor and outdoor settings.
However, before diving into the installation process, there are a few things to keep in mind. It’s important to choose a suitable material for the application, ensuring it fits the requirements of your specific project. The porous nature of natural stone tiles means they need to be sealed after installation to protect them from stains and moisture. Whether you plan to do the installation yourself or hire a tiler who is familiar with fixing natural stone tiles, it’s essential to discuss your requirements and expectations upfront. Ensure you’re aware of the wastage factor, which typically ranges from 10% to 15%, to account for cuts and any minor damage that may occur during transit, packing, or unpacking.
Lastly, always follow the instructions on packaging for adhesives and sealants carefully. Keeping the work area clean and orderly as you progress ensures a smooth installation. After the tiles are installed and sealed, make sure that no complaints regarding the appearance of the product are raised, as the Stone and Tile Company Ltd will not accept them after installation.
Types Of Natural Stone Tiles
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant natural stone, known for its beautiful veining and unique patterns. It’s a popular choice for creating a sophisticated and high-end look, especially in areas with lighter traffic such as bathrooms. However, marble is a softer stone, which makes it more prone to scratching and etching over time. For this reason, it is ideal for spaces where it won’t face heavy wear and tear. Its refined appearance and distinct patterns make it a sought-after choice for those looking for a timeless aesthetic.
Granite
Granite is one of the most durable and versatile natural stones available. It is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, which makes it an excellent option for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways. This stone is less porous than marble, meaning it requires less sealing, making it more convenient for everyday use. Its robustness and long-lasting durability make it a popular choice for both walls and floors, offering both functionality and an elegant finish that stands the test of time.
Travertine
Travertine is a type of limestone that often features natural pits and voids on its surface. These voids are typically filled with resin to give the stone a smoother finish. It’s an ideal choice for internal areas, but due to its porous nature, it requires regular maintenance, especially in high-traffic areas. While travertine can be used in areas like bathrooms and living rooms, it’s important to remember that the stone may wear over time, requiring re-filling of its natural voids. The rustic charm of travertine adds a distinctive appeal to any space, but it demands a bit more care than other stones.
Slate
Slate is a dense, rustic natural stone that comes in a range of rich, earthy colors. Known for its durability, slate is a great option for those seeking a stone that offers both beauty and practicality. It is less porous than marble or travertine but still requires sealing to protect it from moisture and stains. Slate’s natural texture provides a beautiful finish, and it’s available in various finishes, such as riven, brushed, and honed, which can be used both internally and externally. Its natural, rugged charm makes it a popular choice for spaces that demand a more rustic or vintage aesthetic.
Quartzite
Quartzite is a stunning stone that combines the qualities of both marble and slate. This stone is typically sparkly due to its tiny mica deposits, adding a touch of glamour to any space. It is commonly used for decorative cladding and wall tiles, where its subtle sparkle can make an impactful statement. Quartzite is more durable than marble and has superior resistance to scratches and heat. It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas requiring a luxurious appearance. As with other natural stones, quartzite should be sealed properly to maintain its beauty and long-lasting performance.
durability. Limestone can be used in all areas of the home and garden depending on its finish.
Suitability of Natural Stone Tiles for Different Applications
Internal applications
When installing natural stone tiles in Pakistan, it’s important to consider the suitability of the stone for both internal and external applications. For internal applications, natural stones with 20mm thickness may pose doorway issues, making them less ideal for spaces with low clearance. To avoid such issues, it’s best to do a suitability check before ordering and selecting samples will help determine if the color suitability and finish suitability meet your expectations. In contrast, external applications usually require stones with a riven finish or antique finish. These finishes not only enhance the aesthetic but also provide the required slip resistance and wear properties needed for demanding environments like patios or walkways.
External applications
Stones with a 12mm-14mm thickness can also be used for external application, but a solid concrete bed is necessary to properly secure them, especially since they are thinner slabs compared to standard slabs.
For areas that require proper stone fitting, such as kitchens and hallways, it’s essential to assess the stone’s suitability before installation. Stones with the correct finish and thickness can help ensure durability and performance in high-traffic zones. Be sure to check that the stone’s wear properties match the demands of the application area so that the installation remains secure and long-lasting.
Natural Stone Tiles – Selecting Your Surface
Riven Finish
The riven finish is ideal for high-traffic areas such as entrance halls, utilities, kitchens, and conservatories. This finish offers excellent slip resistance, making it a safe choice for areas where traction is important. The rustic nature and contrasting depths of riven stone add a unique charm, though it’s not recommended for barefoot traffic due to its rough texture. It’s suitable for both internal applications and external areas, making it a versatile choice for any project.
Brushed Finish
The brushed finish is created by gently machining the surface of the stone, which results in a smoother, more contemporary effect. This finish maintains the beauty and structure of the stone, offering a more rounded surface. It’s a perfect option for areas with barefoot traffic, such as open-plan areas, bathrooms, or spaces with underfloor heating. The brushed finish brings both elegance and comfort to any room while being practical for everyday use.
Honed Finish
The honed finish provides a flat surface that is smooth and sleek to the touch. This dramatic floor choice is perfect for highlighting the distinctive beauty of the stone. Honed surfaces are ideal for internal areas and commercial projects, offering both durability and style. Its smoothness reveals the intricate patterns of the stone, adding a modern aesthetic to any setting.
Antique Finish
The antique finish is achieved through a tumbled process, where the stone is brushed and tumbled with harder materials, giving it a worn appearance. This finish is typically used for internal applications, though it can be suitable for external areas depending on the stone’s manufacturing process. The antique finish provides a rustic, timeless look, making it a great option for those seeking a vintage feel in their home or project.
Pre-installation checklist
Identify your substrate
Before installing natural stone tiles, it’s crucial to identify your substrate, which is the surface beneath the tiles. The installation method will vary based on your substrate and the product you choose. To achieve the best results, we highly recommend hiring a professional installer who has experience working with your specific substrate type and chosen product. Test for moisture
All substrates must be free from dust, laitance, dirt, and movement. If you are working with a newly installed screed, the screed must be fully cured. A professional installer or the screed manufacturer will perform a specialist test to assess the readiness of the screed by testing its moisture content. Ensuring the proper moisture level is essential before proceeding.
Acclimatising & cleaning
Limestone and marble blocks are cut into tiles using water-cooled gang saws, and then undergo the required finishing process before being packed. Often, these tiles retain moisture and won’t have a chance to dry out until they’re unpacked in a well-ventilated and heated room. As the stone dries, you will notice the color of the tiles starts to lighten. It is important to install them only when fully dry to ensure you can blend the tiles’ tones and variations for the best result. In some cases, an initial clean may be required to remove surface dirt from the manufacturing process before the tiles dry out.
Dry laying tiles
Before you begin fixing your tiles, it’s best practice to dry lay them first. This allows you to determine the optimum grout joints (a minimum of 3mm) and helps you avoid any narrow cuts. This method also allows you to blend the tones and variations of the tiles before fixing them in place. You can also inform your tiler of any specific tiles you prefer for cuts. Typically, tiling begins from the center of the room.
Levelling existing substrates
If the surface is uneven, you may need to use a leveling compound like Keratech Eco R10, which is suitable for thicknesses between 1-10mm. You can find full application advice on the product page. Always ensure the leveling compound is suitable for your specific substrate to ensure proper installation.
Materials needed
Primer: applied to the substrate before installation
A primer is applied to the substrate before installation to prepare the surface. This layer plays a crucial role in ensuring proper bonding between the tile and the foundation. It enhances adhesion and ensures the tiles stay securely in place, forming a strong foundation for the tile installation. The preparation of the substrate is key to a successful result, creating a reliable surface for the tiles to adhere to.
Anti-Fracture Matting: installed between the substrate and tiles for use with underfloor heating systems
Anti-fracture matting is installed between the substrate and the tiles. It serves as a protective layer, especially when using underfloor heating systems. This mat helps prevent fractures, offering protection against cracks that may form in the tiles over time. In addition to its protective qualities, it also provides insulation, helping to regulate the temperature across the floor for better comfort and energy efficiency.
Adhesive: used to fix the tiles, as well as anti-fracture matting when required
The adhesive is essential for fixing both the tiles and anti-fracture matting to the surface. The glue or cement ensures a strong bond between the tiles and the prepared surface, securing them in place for long-term durability. When required, it is also used to firmly attach the matting layer, making it an important part of the overall tile application process. The right adhesive guarantees that the tiles stay in place and do not shift over time.
Sealant: applied to the tile as a protective barrier against water and stains
A sealant is applied to the tile as a protective barrier. It creates an impermeable surface that protects the tiles from water damage and stains. This coating helps maintain the finish of the tiles by ensuring that moisture and dirt do not penetrate the surface. It is especially useful in high-moisture areas, providing waterproofing for a longer-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result.
Grout: applied between the tiles
Grout is applied between the tiles to fill the gaps or joints. It serves as a filler for the space between tiles, ensuring a smooth and even surface. The right grout also helps in the overall finish of the tiled surface, completing the installation by sealing off the areas between the tiles and ensuring a durable, tight fit. The grout provides additional cement to hold the tiles in place and enhances the aesthetic of the tiled floor or wall.
How to install natural stone tiles in Pakistan
Tiling Tip #1:
When installing stone tiles, always check that the substrates and walls are strong enough to support the additional weight. For optimal results, it’s recommended to replace plasterboard walls with a cement-based tile backer board like Hardi Backer or No More Ply. A rough guide for weight limits per square meter for wall tiling includes plaster skim (20kg), plasterboard without skim (32kg), and cement tile backer boards (100kg). According to British Tiling Standards, plywood is no longer suitable for tiling directly.
Tiling Tip #2:
When installing stone tiles, it’s important to randomly pick tiles from the crates and carefully check them before fixing them. This will help ensure a good mix of color and tone. If you have multiple crates or boxes, pick intermittently from all to achieve a consistent variation across the floor or wall.
Tiling Tip #3:
Before applying the adhesive onto the substrate, it is a good practice to skim the back of each tile using the flat side of the trowel. This process, known as buttering the back of the tile, enhances overall adhesion, prevents shadowing on the surface, and fills any cavities in the stone. It is especially important for tiles like travertine tiles that can absorb moisture differently.
Tiling Tip #4:
When installing tiles onto a solid substrate such as concrete or power-floated screeds, using crack matting or a de-coupling membrane is highly recommended. These materials prevent cracks from forming in the tiles due to any movement within the substrate. This helps ensure the durability of your installation.
Tiling Tip #5:
For natural stone tiles, always use a suitable adhesive like a white-colored, cement-based flexible, powdered adhesive. Standard grey adhesives can cause staining, especially on lighter-colored stones, and ready-mixed acrylic adhesives are generally not suitable for stone surfaces. Opting for the correct adhesive ensures a strong and lasting bond for the tiles.
Tiling Tip #6:
Do not dot and dab the adhesive. Stone tiles should always be installed onto a solid bed of adhesive using a notched trowel. According to British standards, at least 70% coverage of the back of each tile must be achieved for proper adhesion.
Tiling Tip #7:
Before grouting, always test a small area of the tiles to ensure that you are happy with the final color of the grout. Allow it to dry overnight to check if the result is satisfactory. The same process should be followed when applying sealer to ensure the desired finish.
Tiling Tip #8:
All natural stone tiles should receive the application of a chemical sealer during installation. There are different sealers for different stones, so it’s important to choose the right one. Generally, you should apply 2–3 coats of sealer before grouting and a final coat after. Before sealing, always give the tiles a thorough wash using a chemical stone cleaner like LTP Grimex or Lithofin Power Clean, and let the surface dry completely.
Tiling Tip #9:
For general maintenance, avoid using abrasive multipurpose cleaners, as these are usually too acidic or alkaline and can wear away the sealer. Instead, use washing-up liquid mixed with warm water or specific stone cleaners like LTP Waxwash or Lithofin MN Wash & Clean. Steam cleaners and mops should also be avoided, as they can damage the surface and the sealer.
Natural Stone Installation FAQ’s
Are natural stone tiles suitable for underfloor heating?
Yes! Natural stone tiles are fully compatible with underfloor heating, provided they are installed correctly. It is essential to use anti-fracture matting during installation to prevent cracks due to temperature fluctuations. Before tiling, a full commission of the UFH system must be performed, including a hydraulic pressure test and thermal conditioning. The screed should undergo a full heat cycle to relieve stress and identify defects. Additionally, any surface laitance or residue must be removed to allow moisture to escape before commissioning. Always verify the commissioning process with your UFH manufacturer and screed supplier for the best results.
How should you cut natural stone tiles?
For precise cutting of natural stone tiles, it is recommended to use electric cutters, also known as wet cutters. A high-quality diamond blade is necessary, as using a blunt or worn blade can cause edge chipping and damage the tile. The diamond blade uses water to cool the blade and the tile as it spins, reducing friction, preventing cracking, minimizing dust, and extending the blade’s lifespan. To achieve clean and precise cuts, it is best to use professional tools and seek assistance from a skilled operator with cutting experience.
Do you need to clean natural stone tiles during installation?
Yes, cleaning is an essential part of the installation process to ensure a flawless finish. During installation, residue from the finishing process may remain on the tile, requiring a pre-install first clean. This can be done by brushing off dust with a dry brush or wiping it with a damp sponge, avoiding excess water to prevent increased drying time. A post-adhesive second clean should be done before applying the first coat of sealant, as the sealing process locks in surface dust. After grouting, a final clean should be performed using Lithofin Power Clean, diluted at a 1:30 ratio. Apply with a white emulsifying pad, leave for 8-10 minutes, scrubbing every minute with a stiff brush, then rinse and towel dry to remove any remaining ingrained residue before applying the second sealant coat.
