8/6/2023 0 Comments Large tile countertops![]() ![]() Because grout-and some types of tile, such as stone-are porous, they can absorb liquid and remain damp, increasing the risk of mold or mildew growth. Stone tiles are porous and should be sealed once or twice a year to protect them from staining.Pigmented sealers can stain natural stone tiles. Seal grout lines at least once a year with an interior grout sealer that is compatible with the type of tile on your countertops.Use a small brush (an old toothbrush works well) to scrub away food deposits on grout lines.These can damage the surface of stone tiles and may remove the sheen from porcelain, glass, or ceramic. Avoid using acid-based cleaners such as vinegar or commercial cleaners that contain mineral acids.Use an all-purpose kitchen cleaning spray when necessary to remove stubborn grease or grime. Wipe down the countertop after meal preparation with a damp sponge or washcloth.Tile countertops are relatively easy to maintain, but they do require a minimum of care and upkeep to retain their good looks. Also, it takes at least 24 hours for tile to set, so be sure it has dried completely before grouting the joints. You want your measurements to be as exact as possible and not moving your supporting structure certainly helps. For glass tiles, use only grout that’s recommended by the manufacturer. Ideally you should have your cabinets installed prior to starting on the countertop. Use unsanded grout for joints narrower than 1/8-inch wide. When installing ceramic, porcelain, or stone tiles, use sanded grout for joints that are 1/8-inch wide, or wider. ![]() Be particularly careful about even spreading of adhesive when laying translucent glass tiles-any irregularities will show right through. The notches let you spread a uniform base, which will ensure that the surface of your tiles is flat and even. The tile manufacturer will specify a specific size of notched trowel. Use the correct trowel to spread adhesive.Always read and follow the adhesive requirements of the manufactures. Porcelain, for example, requires the use of porcelain adhesive, while thinset adhesive can be used for ceramic and natural stone tiles. Only use the adhesive recommended by the tile manufacturer.Position whole tiles, whenever possible, at the front and center of the countertop, and reserve cut tiles for the back edge. Tiles come with smooth factory edges but after you cut one, the edge will be sharp. Arrange the cut ends of the tiles against the back of the countertop.Tile spacers are inexpensive and available in sizes between 1/16-inch and 1/4-inch so you can create a professional look no matter what your design. Use plastic tile spacers to achieve uniform joints between the tiles.A dry layout means positioning every piece of tile before you actually start installing with adhesive. You can rent a tile wet saw for between $45 and $60 per day from a construction rental store. Glass tile especially has a tendency to chip or scratch if not cut precisely, and a highly visible countertop is no place for poorly cut tiles. A good tile saw can make the difference between smooth, clean cuts or the chipped edges that can occur when you manually score and snap the tiles. Use only tile backer board as a substrate to prevent this problem. Grout (and some types of tile) absorb moisture, which will seep down and dampen the plywood, eventually causing it to delaminate and swell, which can lead to tiles heaving and popping. Most stone tiles are available in squares or rectangles from four to 12 inches in size. Stone tiles, such as travertine, slate, and granite, add a natural touch to the kitchen or bathroom.But glass tile is fragile and most prone to chipping, one reason it is more commonly used as a backsplash than a countertop. Glass tile also comes in a large variety of colors and styles and brings a translucent gem-like quality that’s truly stunning.Rounded edge tiles are also available for creating a smooth, contoured countertop edge. Ceramic and porcelain tiles come in a wide range of sizes and colors, from one-inch octagons to 12-inch squares, and an array of shapes and sizes in between.Different types of tiles can be used to achieve custom, one-of-a-kind designs. Nowadays, more popular designs involve incorporating smaller tiles in rows between larger ones and extending the same tile design from the countertop to the backsplash for a continuous look. 1 July 2020.The ability to create simple or elaborate motifs is one of tile’s big draws. ![]()
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