Zion Emser Cabin Ceramic Tile

Dimensions: 5/16" x 6" x 24"
Construction: Glazed Porcelain Tile
Coverage: 13.58/SQ.FT
Edge Style: Pressed
Finish: Matte
Install Method: Glue Down
Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty

Using the proper setting materials throughout the tile installation process is essential to maintaining the beauty and integrity of any tile project for many years.
This guide will serve as a resource to identify specific product types, regardless of brand, for use with particular tile installation situations.

PREP

Successful tile installations begin with the products used in floor preparation. Floor preparation can be divided into several categories: Backer board, Waterproofing, Crack Isolation, Floor Patch, and Floor Leveling products.

• Backer board:
From a bonding perspective, the best substrate to install tile is directly over concrete. In lieu of that, it is recommended to use a backer board over existing wood or vinyl substrates to provide sufficient tile bond. It is not necessary to use backer board products over concrete substrates. Backer board products are typically offered in two forms: cement board and fiber board. In either case, backer boards are all purpose substrates engineered to meet floor underlayment and wall tile-backing needs, as specified by ANSI (American National Standards Institute). Tile backer boards provide the resistance to water and mold that is required in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. Backer boards are commonly offered in either ¼” or ½” thickness. Typically, the ¼” is used on floors, while the ½” is recommended for walls.

• Waterproofing:
For tile installations where water or moisture will be prevalent, it is necessary to apply a waterproofing product as a precaution. There are typically three types of waterproofing products: single step liquids, dual step liquid & mesh, and roll out sheet membranes. With any of these options; waterproofing products will maintain the integrity of the substrate, either wall or floor, and the strength of the tile bond without interference from consistent water or moisture presence.


• Crack Isolation:
Crack Isolation products are used with tile installations over concrete slabs or wood substrates where movement is a concern. These products protect the tile surface from cracks due to movement underneath the tile and substrate. There are typically 2 types of crack isolation products: peel and stick membrane or liquid applied roll on.

• Floor Patch:
Patching products provide a smooth finish prior to the installation of any floor tile. They are used to patch and level concrete or plywood to create an even bonding surface filling voids up to ½” in depth.

• Floor Leveling:
Floor leveling products are specifically made to level floors prior to the installation of a variety of floor coverings in commercial and residential applications. There is a variety of leveling products for different leveling needs such as fast drying, light weight (where overall floor weight is a concern), and feather edge products that provide floor leveling support from 0” to 1” in a single application depending on product type.

SET

There are various types of thinset mortars formulated to fit specific application needs or installation requirements. They are categorized as modified and un-modified thinset. A modified thinset mortar contains polymers formulated into the dry powder mix that increase the performance and bond strength. This product is mixed with water. An un-modified mortar is simply a thinset mortar that does not contain polymer in the dry powder mix. Liquid polymer additives are available for un-modified thinset mortars to boost bond strengths, water resistance, or flexibility. These liquid additives are used in place of water and should never be diluted, unless otherwise noted on the product directions.

In addition, most manufacturers have created specialized mortars for specific applications:

• Large Format Tile Mortars (Medium Bed Mortars):
o Formulated for tile with a single edge of 15” or longer.
o Medium bed mortars do not dry as fast as a typical thinset mortar and they are formulated to significantly reduce the risk of shrinkage in the mortar bed during the curing process.

• Glass Tile Mortars:
o Formulated to work specifically with glass tiles and mosaics

• Fast Drying Mortars:
o Designed for a faster cure rate to increase installation productivity.
o Allows the grouting process to begin faster than typical mortars.


• Non-Sag or No Slump Mortars:
o Designed for a stronger hold with tiles installed on a vertical wall.
o Can also be used with medium bed applications.

• Epoxy Mortars:
o Designed for installations where a strong chemical resistance is needed,
i.e. commercial kitchens.
o Also recommended for tile with resin backing; which typical mortars will not bond.

Mastics are another example of a tile adhesive product. These products resemble a paste or glue verses mortars, which are powders. However, Mastics have limitations and can only be used on vertical wall surfaces with tile no larger than 12”x12”, and can only be used in areas that are not subject to extended water exposure.
A basic guideline of when to use a Mortar or Mastic:
1. Shower floors: Thinset
2. Shower walls: Thinset
3. Bathroom floors: Thinset
4. Bathroom walls: Thinset
5. Kitchen floors: Thinset
6. Kitchen countertops: Thinset
7. Kitchen backsplashes: Mastic
8. Other walls: Mastic (where moisture is not present)

GROUT

Grout is used to fill the spacing between tiles and is offered in a variety of colors to either match or to contrast the tile color. Grout also adds strength to the overall installation by providing a limited, but additional, bonding of the tiles. It also aids in the prevention of chipping and cracking of the tile edge. Grouts are used in almost every tile installation and there are a few product options depending on the type of installation.

• Polymer-Modified or Standard Grouts:
Standard grouts are a polymer-enhanced Portland cement grout. Offered in two variations, unsanded or sanded. Unsanded grout is designed for small joints no larger than 1/8” and is primarily used for walls, tub enclosures, and countertops. In cases where sanded grout could scratch delicate tile surfaces, such as marble or other natural stones, unsanded grout is also recommended. Sanded grout in grout joints ranging from 1/8” to ½”, and is intended primarily for floor tile applications.

• Epoxy Grouts:
Epoxy grouts are typically a two part product system; one part epoxy and one part colorant. Epoxy grouts offer maximum resistance to staining and chemical attack from food, beverages, chemicals and cleaning agents, and never require sealing. There is a higher product cost and installation is typically a bit more labor intensive; but the end product result is extremely durable and stain resistant.


• Pre-Mix and Stain Resistant Powder Grouts:
There are now premixed ready to use and stain resistant grouts offered by most major grout manufacturers. Premixed grouts offer stain resistance, ease of use, no mixing, fast drying times, and no need for sealing. In addition, there are also stain resistant grouts that still require powder & liquid mixing, but offer stain resistance without the epoxy chemical component.

Warranty, Terms & Conditions


An order is deemed by Emser Tile, LLC (“Emser”) to be an offer to purchase, which Emser may accept or reject in its sole discretion. Emser’s acceptance of an offer to purchase is binding on Emser only if made by written instrument or, if not by written instrument, by shipment of the products ordered (and acceptance by shipment shall only be binding as to the portion of the order actually shipped by Emser). Any automatic or computer-generated response to an order by Emser shall not be deemed acceptance of an order. Emser’s acceptance of an order by written instrument or shipment is subject to Emser’s Terms and Conditions of Sale stated herein (“Terms)”


Acceptance

The Terms contained herein apply to all quotations and offers made by Emser and to all purchase orders accepted by Emser. These Terms and Conditions of Sale are specifically intended by both Emser and Buyer to be incorporated by reference into each of the agreements between them and each transaction. These Terms may in some instances conflict with some of the terms and conditions affixed to a Buyer’s purchase order or to any other procurement document issued by the Buyer. In such cases, the Terms contained herein shall govern, and acceptance of Buyer’s order is conditioned upon Buyer’s acceptance of the Terms and Conditions herein, irrespective of whether the Buyer accepts these conditions by a written acknowledgement, by implication, by acceptance of products ordered, or by payment for products ordered. Emser’s failure to object to provisions contained in any communication from Buyer shall not be deemed a waiver of the provisions herein. Any changes in the Terms contained herein must specifically be agreed to in writing, signed by an officer of Emser before becoming binding on either party.

Emser reserves the right at any time to amend these Terms and Conditions, and Buyer shall be deemed to accept such amended Terms and Conditions by ordering products offered after the date of such amendment.


Product and Prices

Unless agreed to otherwise, in advance, in writing and signed by an Officer or Director of Emser, all catalog prices, and all offered prices are F.O.B. Emser’s facility. All pricing quotes must be documented in writing and issued by Emser to be valid. Unless otherwise stated, prices quoted are firm for 30 days from the date quoted. Emser reserves the right to change its prices and the specifications of its products at any time without notice.

Prices do not include state, local, federal or other taxes and duties, and the same will be additionally charged unless a valid tax exemption or re-sale certificate is furnished to Emser prior to shipping. State and local taxes, when charged, are assessed based on those rates in effect at the Emser location selling or servicing the Buyer. All state, local, federal or other taxes and duties are the responsibility of the Buyer. Emser’s failure to assess or collect adequate taxes at the time of sale does not relieve Buyer of the responsibility for actual tax liabilities.

All Emser tiles are nominal sizes. Sizes and prices include recommended joint allowances and joints shall not be deducted when estimating quantities.

Special order or Non-Stock Product (products not included in our current price list) orders require a 50% deposit. Buyer agrees that special order or Non-Stock Product orders are non-cancelable.



Transportation and Energy Surcharge

A Transportation and Energy Surcharge is separately charged to the Buyer to defray the fluctuations and uncertainty in costs related to transportation, fuel, general expenses of logistics, and numerous other costs, assessments, and surcharges imposed upon Emser as it warehouses and positions product throughout its global supply chain. Many of these costs fluctuate continuously based on market conditions and other factors outside of Emser’s control and cannot reasonably be reflected in Emser’s competitive price list for products. Emser reserves the right to apply the variable surcharge in its sole discretion. All invoices are subject to the surcharge and subject to change without notice. None of these charges represents a tax or fee paid to or imposed by any governmental authority and all of the charges are retained by Emser. Emser may not have specifically quantified the relationship between such charges and the actual costs associated with such charges, which also include cost changes with domestic freight, raw materials, import freight, among several other factors and can vary by product, service, time and place, etc.



Credit

All orders, shipments and deliveries by Emser are subject to credit approval by Emser’s Credit Department. As part of this credit approval, Emser may at any time decline to make any shipments or deliveries, and/or impose other terms or conditions or security arrangements as Emser, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate. Emser reserves and Buyer hereby grants Emser a security interest in any products sold to the extent of the invoiced amount. If Buyer defaults under any obligation hereunder, Buyer agrees to make products available so that Emser can repossess them. A copy of the invoice may be filed with appropriate authorities at any time as a financing statement. Upon Emser’s request,
Buyer will execute any documents to perfect Emser’s security interest in any products.

Emser reserves the right in its sole discretion to require prepayment from any Buyer at any time and may refuse to sell and/or withhold further shipment until all overdue balances are made current.

Buyer shall be liable for, and shall reimburse Emser for all costs and expenses it may incur in connection with collection of any amounts owed or in enforcement of its rights, including without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, court costs, and cost of collection agencies.

Payment

Buyer’s obligation to pay outstanding invoices and all other amounts is not subject to reduction, set-off, counterclaim, or Buyer’s receipt of payment from any third party. Buyer shall pay Emser on a timely basis pursuant to the credit terms provided and shown on Emser’s invoice. Emser shall retain a purchase money security interest in all products sold until the entire purchase price has been paid in cash, in full. No check, money order, credit card, electronic payment or other form of payment shall constitute payment until it is paid by the bank on which it is drawn or by the institution of issue transmission.

Emser, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to specify the form of payment acceptable for settlement of invoices and other amounts (i.e. check, certified check, money order, credit card, wire transfer, ACH, or other electronic or non-electronic form or payment). Additionally, should the acceptance of any form of payment cause Emser to incur additional costs and fees, Buyer agrees to reimburse Emser for any such fees upon Emser’s request.

Any disputed amounts should be reported immediately and remitted with the undisputed amount by the payment due date. All billing disputes must be made within thirty (30) days of the applicable invoice date or will be deemed to be waived. Balances remaining unpaid at the due date are subject, at the sole discretion of Emser, to the assessment of late fees applied at the rate of 1.5% per month, or the highest rate permitted by law, whichever is lower, until paid.

Title and Delivery

All shipments by Emser are F.O.B. Emser’s facility, or, if applicable, the facility of an Emser affiliate or agent. Title and risk of loss or damage to products passes to Buyer upon delivery to Buyer, or a common carrier, at Emser’s facility, or, if applicable, the facility of an Emser affiliate or agent.

Buyer acknowledges and agrees that delivery dates, when quoted, are estimates only and may be changed. Emser will use reasonable efforts to deliver in accordance with quoted delivery dates. However, Emser shall not be liable for nonperformance or delays caused by a shortage of raw materials, manufacturing problems, delivery or labor problems, priorities, acts of regulatory agencies or judicial bodies, discontinuation of a product line, pandemics, acts of God or third parties, infringement claims, or other causes beyond its reasonable control.

Emser reserves the right to make delivery in installments. All such installments shall be separately invoiced and paid for when due, without regard to subsequent deliveries. Delay of any shipment shall not relieve the buyer of its obligation to accept remaining installments. In the event that Emser’s ability to supply products becomes constrained, for any reason whatsoever, Emser may reduce quantities, delay shipments, or allocate products among its customers at its discretion.

If part or all of the products are to be delivered from outside of the continental borders of the United States, and such products are not available for any reason, then Emser may in its reasonable discretion replace the same with like products, but shall be under no obligation to do so. If Emser does not replace same, then Emser shall notify Buyer within a reasonable period of time and as Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedy Emser shall give Buyer credit based upon Buyer’s prepayments, if any, for the products.

Inspection and Acceptance

Any product sold or provided by Emser shall be deemed accepted by Buyer upon delivery. Claims for damage, shortage or errors in shipping must be recorded on the original receiving documents and reported in writing within twenty-four (24) hours following delivery to Buyer.

It is the Buyer’s responsibility to inspect all merchandise prior to installation. If for any reason the material is incorrect or unacceptable for installation, Buyer shall make such claim to Emser, in writing, before installation.

Emser’s liability in respect to all claims shall be limited to accepting the return of incorrect or unacceptable product before installation, and then only after Emser has been notified in writing that the material is incorrect or unacceptable and has had the opportunity to inspect the product and conduct its own investigation. All original packaging materials must be kept until after inspection. Subsequent to any investigation, Emser shall have the right to supply substitute products. If substitute products are to be supplied, Emser shall have up to 90 days following the conclusion of Emser’s investigation to so substitute.

All claims for incorrect or unacceptable product should be received in writing within 30 days from shipment date and prior to installation. Installation of product is deemed acceptance of product and Emser shall not be liable for, and will not recognize, claims made after the start of the installation including claims of incorrect product; claims of incorrectly sized, colored, shaded, calibrated, or packaged product; claims of product not matching prior shipments; and/or any other product claims. Emser shall not be responsible for improper installation of products.

Online Imagery and Samples

Online product imagery and the visualizer are just two of the tools available to help in the selection and confirmation of product choices. Lighting, screen resolution and device settings can affect color, so it is always recommended that you visit a store and/or obtain a sample to see a better representation of the material prior to purchase.

It is important to note that physical samples are also representative only. Tiles may vary slightly from a sample and piece to piece in shade, color variation and/or surface appearance. Please be sure to validate the usage and application details for the product you have loaded into the visualizer to confirm that it is compatible with your room, environment or installation conditions.

For more information or to view full sized tiles please visit your local retailer or an Emser location near you.

Returns

Special order or Non-Stock Product are not returnable and deposits on such are non-refundable. Returns of Emser Stock Product (product contained within Emser’s current price list) is subject to the prior authorization of Emser, in its discretion.


All return requests must be made within 30 days of shipment date. All product accepted for return must be in its original, unopened packaging, in full case quantities, and in good condition – suitable for resale. Returns are subject to a 25% Restocking Fee. Additionally, all costs of returning product to an Emser facility, or the facility of an affiliate, agent or original manufacturer, will be the responsibility of the Buyer. After the assessment of all costs of return, Buyer’s account will either be credited for the excess of its deposit over such costs or charged for the net of such costs in excess of its deposit.

Sample products are not eligible for general return. Sample products received damaged may be replaced as needed.

Indemnification

Buyer shall at its own expense apply for and obtain any permits and inspections required for the installation and/or use of Emser’s products. Emser makes no promise or representation that the products will conform to any federal, state or local laws, ordinances, regulations, application, codes or standards.

Emser shall not be responsible for any losses or damages sustained by the Buyer, or any other person, as a result of improper installation or misapplication of Emser’s products. Buyer shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless Emser and its agents and employees against any loss, damage, claim, suit, liability, judgment or expense (including, without limitation, attorney’s fees) arising out of, or in connection with, any injury, damage to or loss of any property, or violation of any applicable laws or regulations resulting from, or in connection with, the sale, transportation, installation, use, or repair of Emser’s products by the Buyer, Buyer’s customers or any third parties.

Limited Warranty and Limited Liability

Emser warrants only to its immediate Buyer, and to no other person, that its products will, on the date of shipment, meet the terms of Emser’s Bid Confirmation, Order Acknowledgement, or Sales Order pursuant to which such products were sold.

Manufactured Products: Emser warrants that manufactured products will be free from defect for a period of one year from date of purchase. Defect is defined as a shortfall in the product to perform to specifications as disclosed in product or trade literature, within industry allowable tolerances as set forth in standard, national industry protocols. Emser will only consider warranty claims which are supported by evidence provided by Buyer establishing defects covered by this warranty.

This one-year express warranty is the sole warranty extended and replaces any statutory warranties to the maximum extent allowable by law. Customer misuse including negligence, physical, or chemical abuse is not covered by this warranty and voids this warranty. Installation defects or installations that violate building codes or industry custom and practice are not covered by this warranty and voids this warranty. All warranty claims must be reported in writing immediately. Failure to report any warranty claim in writing within 30 days of defect discovery will void this warranty. All products must be inspected prior to installation. Visual defects or nonconformities apparent prior to installation voids this warranty. Manufactured tile is subject to variation due to an inherent variability in raw materials and production processes. Ceramic tile with a rating of V3 or V4 may contain higher levels of variation. All products should be inspected prior to installation.

Natural Stone Products: Natural stone products, including, but not limited to, travertine, limestone, granite, marble, onyx, and slate, are products of nature mined and cut from natural formations which may inherently contain high levels of variation. Because these products are mined and cut from natural formations instead of manufactured, quality warranties are limited to the specified representations in Emser product literature, trade product literature, and guidelines established by the Natural Stone Institute. Emser does not warrant natural stone products for shade, size, thickness, warping, cleft variations, surface finish variations, or other natural defects on stone products. Emser will only consider warranty claims which are supported by evidence provided by Buyer establishing defects covered by this warranty.

EMSER DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE.

No agent, employee or other representative of Emser has the authority to create any other affirmation, warranty or representation, either oral or written, regarding Emser’s products.

THE LIABILITY OF EMSER UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY (WHETHER CONTRACT, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE) SHALL BE LIMITED AS FOLLOWS: THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, SHALL BE THE REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE GOODS F.O.B. EMSER’S FACILITY OR, AT EMSER’S OPTION, REFUND OF THE PURCHASE PRICE OF SUCH DEFECTIVE GOODS. THE LIABILITY OF EMSER AND ITS PRESENT, FUTURE, AND FORMER PARTNERS, PRINCIPALS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS AND CONTRACTORS FOR ALL OTHER CLAIMS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO EMSER’S OWN NEGLIGENCE, SHALL NOT EXCEED AND SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE AMOUNTS PAYABLE FOR THE PORTION OF THE WORK GIVING RISE TO SUCH LIABILITY. THIS LIMITATION SHALL NOT APPLY TO THE EXTENT THAT IT IS FINALLY DETERMINED THAT ANY CLAIMS, LOSSES, OR DAMAGES ARE THE RESULT OF EMSER’S WILLFUL MISCONDUCT OR FRAUD.

BUYER HEREBY WAIVES, AND IN NO EVENT SHALL EMSER BE LIABLE FOR, ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OR LOSS, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY LOST PROFITS, TAXES, INTEREST, PENALTIES, LOSS OF SAVINGS, OR LOST BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY, WHETHER OR NOT EMSER HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

Buyer acknowledges and agrees that the foregoing disclaimer of warranties and limitations on Emser’s liability are an essential basis for Buyer’s agreement with Emser, that Emser would not have entered into this agreement but for such provisions, and that the exclusion of special, incidental, consequential, indirect or other damages shall apply and be enforced whether or not Emser is able to replace any defective goods or complete any delivery.

Any legal action that Buyer may bring against Emser arising out of the sale of goods or other transactions contemplated hereby (whether in contract, tort, strict liability or otherwise) must be filed within 12 months from the earlier of (i) delivery of goods hereunder, or (ii) the date of Emser’s alleged breach. Buyer’s failure to file within such period shall be deemed to act as a waiver and time bar for any and all claims against Emser Tile, LLC.

Third Party Providers

From time to time, Emser will procure products for sale from third party suppliers. There is no common ownership, control, governance, or partnership relationship among Emser and its third party suppliers. Emser is not an agent of its suppliers, they do not obligate one another and are not liable for one another’s acts or omissions. All third-party providers are subject to confidentiality obligations to protect the confidentiality of data. Such entities may be located within or outside the United States.

Non-Waiver

Emser’s waiver of any of these Terms in any instance is limited to that instance and does not imply that Emser will waive such Terms on any future occasion.


Notices

Any notice to Buyer hereunder shall be deemed to have been given if sent by prepaid first class mail to the party concerned at its last known address. Notice to Emser shall be to its Headquarter office at 8431 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90069.



Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for any delay or failure in performance (except for payment obligations) due to any strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts of war or terrorism, governmental actions, civil or military disturbances, pandemics, epidemics, contagious diseases, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of God, or other circumstances beyond its reasonable control.


Applicable Law and Arbitration

Emser and Buyer agree that this agreement shall be deemed made in Los Angeles, California; that the internal laws of California shall govern, except regarding arbitration. Any dispute or disagreement between Emser and Buyer shall be submitted to binding arbitration before the American Arbitration Association (AAA) in Los Angeles, California, in accordance with its commercial arbitration rules then in effect. The arbitration and any issue concerning the extent to which any dispute is subject to arbitration shall be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act and not by any state law and shall be resolved by the arbitrators. The arbitrator shall award reasonable attorney’s fees and costs to the prevailing party, and the arbitrator’s award may be entered and enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction. All remedies of Emser hereunder shall be deemed cumulative and shall be in addition to any other remedies Emser may have under law. The exercise by Emser of any one or more remedies shall not be deemed an election of remedies by Emser.

Cleaning Glazed Porcelain and Ceramic
Glazed porcelain and ceramic tiles are among the easiest flooring materials to clean. Due to their impenetrable glazes, their surfaces are resistant to water, dirt, chemicals, oil, debris, and even germs and bacteria.

Always Remember:
• Do not clean porcelain tile flooring with ammonia or with cleaners that contain bleach and/or acid. Acid and ammonia based cleaners may modify grout color and productstability.
• Use a cleaner that is pH neutral. This ensures cleaning will not harm your grout or surrounding surfaces.
• Do not use wax or oil-based cleaners.
• Use rugs at entrances to prevent dirt and grit from being tracked onto the tile flooring from outdoors. Tiles are scratch resistant but not scratch proof.
• Do not use steel wool or other abrasive pads to remove tough debris or stains. Steel wool may scratch your tiles and loose steel particles may eventually create rust stains in the grout overtime.
• Although glazed surfaces are impervious, the use of a grout release will aid in post installation clean up, especially if the glazed surface has a texture to it where mortar, grout and other construction debris can get trapped inside grooves during and afterinstallation.

Standard Cleaning Guidelines for Glazed Products
1. Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor prior to washing with water to prevent the tile from becoming muddy or leaving a residue after cleaning. On textured surfaces sweep in multiple directions to ensure the removal of all foreign material that might be residing in the textured surface. For wall surfaces tile can be gently wiped down with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
2. Mop the floor with a mild detergent, degreaser, or tile cleaning solution. For textured floors, the use of a medium bristle brush is recommended. A sponge or clean cloth can be used to apply the cleaning agent to wallsurfaces.
3. Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean water to remove any left-over detergents.
4. Drying with a clean cloth or rag is recommended to increase the shine and to prevent water spots or streaks.

Cleaning Unglazed Porcelain and Ceramic
Unglazed products are highly desirable due to their double loaded and throughbody characteristics. Polished finishes are typically protected by nano and/or wax coatings and are resistant to water, chemicals, and scratching. Matte and textured finishes are generally unprotected and although the surface is impervious, it may be more difficult to clean post install than a polished surface due to the inherent surface characteristics of these finishes on a micro pore level.

Always Remember:
• Do not clean porcelain tile flooring with ammonia or with cleaners that contain bleach and/or acid. Acid and ammonia based cleaners may modify grout color and productstability.
• Use a cleaner that is pH neutral. This ensures cleaning will not harm your grout or surrounding surfaces.
• Do not use wax or oil-based cleaners.
• Use rugs at entrances to prevent dirt and grit from being tracked onto the tile flooring from outdoors. Tiles are scratch resistant but not scratch proof.
• Do not use steel wool or other abrasive pads to remove tough debris or stains. Steel wool may scratch your tiles and loose steel particles may eventually create rust stains in the grout overtime.
• Nano coatings should remain intact post install for added protection. However, if electing to remove nano coatings, a nano scrub or poultice type product may be used. Ask a sales associate for details.
• Although unglazed surfaces are impervious, the use of a grout release will aid in post install clean up, especially if the unglazed surface has a matte or textured finish to it where construction debris can get trapped during grouting. Sealing may also be recommended post install to aid in day to day maintenance of these surfaces.
o It is suggested that a breathable penetrating sealer be applied to matte unglazed surfaces after grouting. This treatment provides an excellent defense against staining and may be desirable in high traffic areas. Follow the sealing manufacturer’s guidelines for recommendations on how often a sealer should be reapplied.

Standard Cleaning Guidelines for Unglazed Products
1. Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor prior to washing with water to prevent the tile from becoming muddy or leaving a residue after cleaning. On textured surfaces sweep in multiple directions to ensure the removal of all foreign material that might be residing in the textured surface. For wall surfaces tile can be gently wiped down with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
2. Mop the floor with a mild detergent, degreaser, or tile cleaning solution. For textured floors, the use of a medium bristle brush is recommended. A sponge or clean cloth can be used to apply the cleaning agent to wallsurfaces.
3. Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean water to remove any left-over detergents.
4. Drying with a clean cloth or rag is recommended to increase the shine and to prevent water spots or streaks.

Cleaning Metal Tile
Many of the metal tiles you see on the market today are made from solid metal, coated in metal glazes, or cast from polymers that are fused with real metal particles. Due to the presence of actual metal in most cases, careful attention must be paid when cleaning these unique surfaces.

Always Remember:
• Stainless steel cleaners for appliances tend to work well on stainless steel tiles as they are typically made from similar grades of steel. However, it is important to note that not all metal tiles are made from stainless steel and as such a pH neutral cleaner or water with a mild soap solution can be used.
• It is not recommended that any abrasive cleaners or scouring pads be used to clean metal as it may scratch the surface and cause the tiles to oxidize.
• It is also important to keep the tiles dry and away from heat as much as possible.
• Be sure to follow grout manufacturer’s instructions on cleaning and sealing grout properly.
• Grout cleaners containing bleach or ammonia may be harmful to the metal if not applied properly.


Standard Cleaning Guidelines for Metal Products
1. Wipe loose dirt or grease from the surface. An untreated paper towel or cloth is recommended.
2. Wash the surface with a mild detergent, degreaser, or cleaning solution (do not use abrasive cleaners or abrasive applicators).
3. Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean water if a detergent is used.
4. Drying with a clean cloth or paper towel is recommended to prevent water spots or streaks.


Cleaning Glass Tile and Decorative Mosaics
Glass is one of the easiest surfaces to clean. Due to its impervious nature, all stains will remain on the surface and can be wiped away with no effort. When cleaning glass and/or resin based blends the least abrasive method should always be used first as not to damage, discolor, or scratch the surface.

Always Remember:
• Do not use any abrasive cleaners or scouring pads to clean glass as they may scratch the surface.
• There are many cleaning solutions on the market today suitable for cleaning glass tile. In most cases a standard glass or multi-surface cleaner applied with a cloth or paper towels will work well.

Standard Cleaning Guidelines for Glass Products
1. Wipe loose dirt or grease from the surface. An untreated paper towel or cloth is recommended.
2. Wash the surface with a mild detergent, degreaser, or glass cleaning solution (do not use abrasive cleaners or abrasive applicators).
3. Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean water if a detergent is used.
4. Drying with a clean cloth or paper towel is recommended to increase the shine and to prevent water spots or streaks.

Cleaning Natural Stones
Natural stone is a very durable surface when protected and maintained properly and is widely used in residential and commercial applications.

Always Remember:
• Sweep or vacuum your floors regularly.
• Protect your stone from sand and grit as floors may scratch from dirt and debris.
• Be careful with acidic foods and drinks (lemonade, orange juice, etc.) as they may etch certain stones.
• Never use any cleaners that contain ammonia, acids, or bleach.
• Never apply wax or acrylics to the surface as they may damage the stone.
• Tend to spills quickly. Sealers do not prevent 100% of damages caused by spills.
• Sealing all natural stone is highly recommended.
o It is suggested that a breathable penetrating sealer be applied before and after grouting. This treatment provides an excellent defense against staining and may be desirable in high traffic areas. Follow the sealing manufacturer’s guidelines for recommendations on how often a sealer should be reapplied.

Standard Cleaning Guidelines for Natural Stone
1. Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor. For wall surfaces, tile can be gently wiped down with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
2. Mop the floor with a mild detergent, degreaser, or tile cleaning solution. A sponge or clean cloth can be used to apply the cleaning agent to wall surfaces.
3. Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean water to remove any left-over detergents.
4. Drying with a clean cloth or rag is recommended to increase the shine and to prevent water spots or streaks.
Commercial Deep Cleaning
Commercial cleaning can present its own challenges due to the high traffic nature of most applications and exposure to foreign debris that a standard residential application may not be subject to. Commercial floors must be maintained properly to ensure the longevity of an application.

Always Remember:
• In addition to following standard cleaning protocol for your product type, also consider the following:
o Floors need to be kept as dry as possible after cleaning to prevent slip accidents
o When mopping, the water should be changed frequently so you are not pushing around muddy water
o Scrubbing the floors too often with a buffer may cause irregular wear patterns
o Always be sure to protect furniture legs and stanchions with felt pads to protect the floors from scratching
o Chewing gum, grease and other debris difficult to remove may require use of a plastic putty knife
o Prior to removing graffiti and other difficult stains, test a small area to make sure the chemical agents will not damage the surface.
o For embedded stains, the use of a poultice mix may be required
o When electing to remove nano coatings, a nano scrub or poultice type product may be used

Standard Deep Cleaning Guidelines
1. Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor. For wall surfaces, tile can be gently wiped down with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
2. Mix a high concentration cleaner, degreaser, or stripper as needed based on manufacturer’s guidelines for periodic deep cleaning.
3. Agitate with scrub brush or floor scrub machine.
4. Mop up dirty solution. A wet/dry vac may be used in large areas.
5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, changing water every 500 sq. ft. or as needed.
6. Drying with a clean cloth or rag as well as a final dry vac extraction is recommended to increase the shine, prevent water spots and streaks, and to prevent slip accidents in a commercial setting.


Cleaning Grout
There are many grouts on the market today that are stain resistant and do not require a sealer. However, not all grouts will have these characteristics and special care must be taken to ensure product performance is not compromised due to exposer to harsh cleaners.

Always Remember:
• Clean tile and stone regularly according to standard cleaning guidelines. Anything safe for the tile will typically be safe for your grout. PH neutral cleaners are highly recommended. Mopping dirty tiles will cause muddy water to get stuck in the grout joints, so keeping tiles cleaned regularly will improve the look of the grout.
• Be careful with acidic foods, drinks and dyes as they may stain certain types of grout.
• Never use cleaners that contain ammonia, acids, or bleach. Some stains may be set so deep in the grout that bleach may be the only thing to get your grout clean. Bleaching causes the pores of the grout to open and hold dirt even more. As such, sealing after bleaching is highlyrecommended.
• Prolonged use of bleach and ammonia based products may cause the grout to become brittle over time and in wet applications may result in water damage due to cracking and deterioration.
• Sealing grout prevents staining. Sealers are not chemical proof and may break down from continued exposure to harsh household chemical cleaners.
• It is suggested that a breathable penetrating sealer be applied before and after grouting. This treatment provides an excellent defense against staining, mold and mildew. Follow the sealing manufacturer’s guidelines for recommendations on how often a sealer should bereapplied.
• Tend to spills quickly. Sealers do not prevent 100% of damages caused by spills.
• A medium bristle brush can be used to scrub the grout joints


Pre and Post Grout Install Tip:
• Using a grout release or sealer prior to installation is recommended especially for product that is porous or has a textured surface. Often times grout particles may become trapped and difficult to clean during the standard grouting process and the use of a rag or sponge may not pull up all the grout haze. Using a grout release and/or sealer will help prevent this from happening. Also important to note is that grout haze left on the surface of a tile will become difficult to remove and the chemicals needed to remove it at a later time may damage the tile or alter its looks. Heavy duty grout haze removers should be used according to the grout manufacturer’s recommendations before trying more concentrated acid solutions.

Standard Cleaning Guidelines for Grout
1. Sweep, brush, or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the surface. For wall surfaces, grout can be gently wiped down with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
2. Mop, brush, or sponge the surface with a mild detergent, degreaser, or tile cleaning solution.
3. Rinse the grout thoroughly with clean water to remove any left-over detergents.
4. Drying with a clean cloth or rag is recommended to prevent water spots or streaks on the tile.
5. Reseal grout periodically as needed.