Entries by ad_Vmin

Pocket Guide to Stone

July 30, 2013 /in , /by

Limestone Created from corals and shells that have settled on ocean floors and consolidated to form into calcite. Typically, there are visual fragments of corals, shells and other fossils in limestone. The density and hardness of limestone varies widely. The most durable limestone can withstand heavy airport terminal traffic (John Wayne Airport) while others aren’t […]

All About Grout

July 27, 2013 /in /by

What is grout? Most grouts are cement-based fillers used to fill the joints between tiles. Typical width is 3/16″ – 1/4″ on floor tiles, and/or more on rustic tiles and clay pavers. Grout joints under 1/8″ require a non-sanded grout; larger joints require a sanded grout. Adding latex or polymers to a cementitious grout will […]

The Skinny on Slate

June 26, 2013 /in /by

What is slate? Slate is a natural stone or rock. Rock is made up of minerals and other rocks that give it color. Natural slate usually refers to two different products; slate that originated as shale, and quartzite that originated as sandstone. Both products are metamorphic rocks, which means that over time, and under heat […]

Five Tips for Designing with Tile

June 15, 2013 /in /by

1. Design with color Color can change the mood of a room, highlight its good points and obscure its bad points Counters and walls can use tiles that complement or contrast in color to those used on the floor Tile can be cut into one-quarter size and alternate colors to create custom borders 2. Design […]

Installation Principles

May 19, 2013 /in /by

This system consists of four integral components. The failure of any component means the failure of the entire installation. 1. Substrate What is the condition of the substrate that you’re going to set the tile on? Is it clean and ready for tile? Is it properly cured? How will cracks be prepared? Is it level? […]