In ceramic application, joint selection is at least as important as ceramic selection. A good joint filler is easy to apply, does not scratch the ceramic, does not crack, and its colors do not change over time.
In order for a good joint application to be made, the ceramic must be properly laid.
Points to Consider Before Laying Ceramics
Care should be taken to ensure that the surface on which the ceramic application will be made is sound, dust-free and dry.
Defects and roughnesses on the flooring surface should be repaired before laying.
A ceramic comb of appropriate thickness should be used. Large comb should be preferred for large sizes and small comb should be preferred for small sizes.
After tiling, wiping the tiled area with a damp cloth or sponge ensures that no unwanted material remains.
Before Grouting
Appropriate joint width should be left for a good joint laying. It may vary by 2-3 mm depending on the ceramic.
Mixing water should be clean, attention should be paid to the amount written on the packaging of the product, and water should be added according to the directions. Water should not be added to the mixture again.
Attention should be paid to the weather conditions in the applications to be made outdoors, and it should not be worked in excessively sunny or excessively windy weather.
Grouting
Joint application should be done at the earliest 24-48 hours after the ceramic is laid.
Before the application, it should be checked that the joint gaps are clean. Cleaning water should be changed frequently during joint application.
Expansion joints should be left in large areas such as shopping malls, stores and offices. These areas should be reinforced with an elastic filling material or expansion profiles.
After Grouting
The joint should be opened for use 24-48 hours after application.
Before the application, the experts of the manufacturers should be consulted and the recommendations should be followed.
When cleaning ceramics, care should be taken with ceramics and joint fillers.
Ceramic selection and proper laying of the ceramic is very important for design.
