STEP BY STEP

When installing ceramic tiles, it is necessary to follow the applicable standards and guidelines (Finishing works in construction; Execution of tiling works – Technical conditions SRPS U.F2.011).

1. SURFACE PREPARATION

The substrate for tile installation must be load-bearing, free of cracks, clean, and level. Any unevenness should first be filled with sealing materials and then treated with a tile primer or bonding emulsion. A crucial part of quality protection is the application of waterproofing materials and coatings. The exact specification and method of application should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If tiles are being installed on large floor areas or surfaces with pronounced transitions between rooms on the same level, expansion joints or profiles must be used.

2. INSTALLATION PLANNING

Tile Shade (Tone)
The tile shade (tone) is indicated on the packaging and represents minor differences in color intensity or surface structure. To avoid shade variations on the finished surface, check that all boxes have the same tone marking. Even if all boxes are marked with the same tone, we recommend mixing tiles from different boxes during installation to minimize potential small variations. When installing Class I tiles, tiles of the same shade (tone) and caliber must be used in the same room. Always check the tone in a well-lit space or daylight. When purchasing, increase the required quantity by 10–15% to allow for cutting and fitting.

Tile Dimension and Caliber
Caliber refers to the deviation in length and width from the nominal size. According to EN 14411, these deviations may range from 0.5% to 1%, depending on the type of tile. When selecting and laying tiles, special attention must be paid to the tile caliber. The calibers are identified on the packaging, which also specifies where tiles of the same caliber must be used and where adjacent calibers may exceptionally be combined.

Installation of Tiles Imitating Natural Materials
With advances in manufacturing and digital printing technology, tiles can now replicate the natural appearance of wood, marble, stone, concrete, and similar materials. These tiles are produced with multiple faces (patterns), meaning they should be laid randomly rather than in continuous patterns to achieve a natural look. Claims will not be accepted for already installed tiles.

Installation of Rectangular Tiles
Tiles can be laid straight or offset, but the offset should not exceed 30% of the tile’s length and/or width. It is not recommended to install tiles without joints (butt-jointing) or with a 50% offset. Rectangular tiles should have a slight central curvature, which must be consistent across all tiles used.

Positioning
When laying tiles at a right angle, align the first row using a mason’s line or straightedge. For floor installation, place a reference line across the center of the room parallel to the side walls. Pay attention to existing expansion joints in concrete or plastered sections (especially in outdoor areas where they should be more frequent). For diagonal installation, first determine the longitudinal and transverse axes of the room, then mark a 45° angle between them. Tiles are then laid along this marked line. For wall installation, ensure the wall surface is perpendicular to the floor and determine the starting height so that full tiles are used up to the ceiling. Always begin tiling from the floor upwards to maintain alignment with joints on adjacent walls.

3. TILE ADHESIVE AND GROUTING

Tile Adhesive
When installing tiles, use an adhesive suitable for the specific application and tile type, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and specifications. The adhesive should be mixed until a homogeneous, lump-free mass is obtained, then applied with a notched trowel to both the substrate and the tile. For installing large-format or porcelain tiles on walls, flexible adhesives (C2 – S1 or S2 classification) must be used. Tiles should be pressed gently into the adhesive to remove trapped air, then leveled using a rubber mallet or leveling system with clips and wedges. Maintain consistent joint widths (recommended: 2 mm for wall tiles, 3 mm for floor tiles) using spacers or a leveling system placed at half the tile thickness.

After the adhesive has fully cured, grouting may begin. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when preparing grout. Spread the grout evenly using a rubber float. Excess grout should be removed while still fresh. To ensure proper sealing, the joint should be completely filled and flush with the tile surface—this also protects the tile edges from damage (e.g., by vehicles, pallet jacks, or moving heavy loads). In the food industry, epoxy grouts must be used due to strict hygiene and chemical resistance standards, as well as physical resistance to traffic and constant exposure to water or moisture. Expansion joints that follow the structural elements provide space to absorb tile expansion, contraction, torsion, and temperature variations. Tiles should be laid in such a way that they align with these flexible joints, which must be filled with materials suitable for the expected mechanical and chemical conditions. Clean joint areas thoroughly before filling; do not use products containing oils or grease.

4. CLEANING

The first cleaning should be carried out immediately after grouting. Once joints are sealed, smooth the grout lines and remove mortar residues from the tiles with a damp cloth. Rinse frequently and change the water often for better results. After 24 hours, perform thorough cleaning using a mixture of general-purpose cleaners and warm water, strictly following the manufacturer’s instructions. Mechanical cleaning machines equipped with rotary brushes and detergent dispensers can be used. Do not use detergents that leave a waxy or greasy film, as this allows dirt to accumulate and may negatively affect the tile’s slip resistance.

Based on the production method and materials used, the following types of trims and decorative elements (listels and decors) exist: trims and decors decorated with ceramic colors and glass, trims and decors decorated with colors, glass, and precious metals (gold, platinum), or ceramic luster. After grouting, carefully remove excess grout from the decorated tile surfaces to protect the decorative finishes from abrasive damage.

SPECIAL CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN WITH TRIMS AND DECORS DECORATED WITH PRECIOUS METALS OR CERAMIC LUSTERS.
During cleaning after installation, as well as during regular maintenance, abrasive or aggressive cleaning agents (bleach, muriatic acid, etc.) must not be used. The customer assumes all risk of damage if the installation and maintenance instructions for ceramic tiles are not followed.

For any questions or consultations – CONTACT US:

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E-mail: keramika@en.zorka-keramika.rs
Website: www.zorka-keramika.rs