Editor's Note
This editor’s note highlights the key facts and market implications behind “Tile Renovation: Beware of Non-Compliant Practic”, with emphasis on sourcing, product fit, fabrication, logistics, or buyer impact.
The industrial evolution of ceramic tiles also affects renovation. Some developments are not covered by standard rules of the trade. Extra vigilance is required when preparing substrates.
As always, ceramic industry manufacturers drive innovation. "Tile aesthetics have changed and diversified, both in terms of formats and products," informs Sabrina Vadrot, Tile Installation Product Manager at Saint-Gobain Weber France.
L’esthétique du carrelage a changé et se diversifie tant d’un point de vue des formats que des produits
The trend? "Formats of 60 x 60 cm and larger, thin and oblong, as well as high-end porcelain stoneware." The only problem: "Officially, in renovation, you cannot install floor tiles exceeding 3,600 cm²," reminds Christine Peltier from Sika's technical service.
Officiellement en rénovation, on ne peut pas poser de carrelage au sol au-delà de 3 600 cm2
"It is then necessary to explain to homeowners the constraints of large modules."
Is it impossible to meet client demands then? "From the moment a large format is installed over an existing one, installation product manufacturers require prior leveling to ensure perfect waterproofing and secure the bonding plane." And of course, "to inspect the substrates according to the rules of the art," adds Alexandrine Gerbier, Product Manager for Adhesives and Grouts at Mapei. This is essential to avoid problems. But it's not the only concern.
Vigilance on Substrates
"Installing a new covering over old tile is not a problem, even if the tile has micro-cracks. However, it must not sound hollow," warns Christine Peltier. The same warning from Mapei: "when a tile sounds hollow, it must be removed and the empty space filled," continues Alexandrine Gerbier.
Furthermore, old tile must be "very well cleaned," adds the Sika technical coordinator. A sodium hydroxide wash is imperative, left to act and then rinsed. Polished tiles also require certain vigilance. They have very severe surface tensions, so this surface must be sanded.
In some cases, it's possible to forego a primer. Other developed solutions offer better efficiency for the installer, allowing, for example, the same area to be covered with 15 kg of product instead of 25 kg.
The other major trend: wanting to install new tile over polished concrete, which after years of popularity with homeowners is now less in vogue. Beware, this type of surface blocks the adhesion of installation products (PMO). Tile installation is therefore not feasible unless everything is removed.
Faced with these new installation techniques and increasingly varied projects, "and end clients with clear demands, companies must demonstrate adaptability and agility by developing quality listening and advisory skills, and a true commercial approach," informs the Saint-Gobain Weber France manager.
Constantly Improved Comfort
On the side of PMO manufacturers, the focus is on ease and comfort of installation. Versatility is key. "We continue to commit to the well-being and health of our clients," informs Sabrina Vadrot. "We develop PMOs with more creaminess, easier to use, and with low environmental impact." This dimension is also unavoidable to meet the expectations of both companies and private clients.
However, these tiles intended to become a new covering today face two new trends. First, formats larger than 3,600 cm², which are outside regulations.
Source: Read the original article | Published: September 06, 2018