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Tile Around Your Tub [07/16/2004]
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Ceramic tile may be easily applied on most sound and smooth surfaces such as plywood, plaster, gypsum wall board, Wonderboard(Glass Fiber reinforced concrete construction panel), or concrete. Ceramic tile may also be applied over an existing tile surface providing it is clean and sound. All surfaces must be completely dry, and free of all dust or dirt. Oil-based painted surfaces must be scratched or sanded. Latex paints should be removed completely. New plaster must be fully cured. In excessively damp areas, apply a thin waterproofing adhesive with the flat side of a trowel and allow to dry over night. (Not necessary when using Wonderboard or similiar product.) In very damp areas, we strongly recommend the use of Wonderboard(or similiar product) as a backing material.
APPLICATION
Step #1
If the bathtub is level(with in 3/16")on all three sides, measure up one full tile (or sheet) plus 1/8"(grout joint) form the lowest point and make a level line all around the tub. Draw a plumb line in the centre of the back wall, from the ceiling to tub, intersecting the level line. If desired, at this point, by mapping your tiles and allowing for grout joints, you may adjust your plumbline, to reduce cutting in corners and eliminate cuts smaller than one-half tile. Repeat this procedure on end walls. A batten may be used, to assist placing your first row of tiles.
Step #2
Apply your adhesive with a 3/16" V-Notched trowel. Hold the trowelat a 45 degree angle, when spreading the adhesive. DO NOT spread more adhesive than you and cover in 30 minutes. (Approx. 20 square feet) Read the label on the can of adhesive for detailed directions.
Step #3
Apply tile to adhesive with the time stated above and press firmly into place, using a slight twisting motion. Start at the plumb line in centre of the backwall - on top of your level line - and work towards the closest end wall. Place the bottom row on last and make cuts where necessary. The plumb line reference should keep your tiles squarely aligned. Once you have completed the backwall, repeat the procedure on end walls. At this points, you may also install your soap dish.
Step #4
After the tile has been allowed to set firmly(Approx. 24 hours), apply the grout. Using a grouting float, apply a mixture of grout to the joints, working diagonally across the tiles. Make sure there are no visable voids, pack joints fully, and remove excess grout. (Use rubber gloves throughout procedure.) Using a sponge, wipe the tile diagonally, smoothing down joints to desired depth. A thin film will form over the tiles. After 50-60 minutess of drying time, the tiles may be polished with a clean soft cloth. A Silicone Rubber Bathtub Caulk should be applied, where the tile meets the tub, to make your job completely waterproof and allow for contraction and expansion of tub.
Step #5
After the grout ahs partially cured (at least 72 hours), apply a grout sealer. This will keep the joints clean and stain resistant.
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