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Tiling with resin agglomerated tiles

Published by

THE TILE

ASSOCIATION

The Tile Association

Forum Court, 83 Copers Cope Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1NR

Tel 020 8663 0946 Fax 020 8663 0949 E [email protected] W www.tiles.org.uk

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Tiling with resin agglomerated tiles © The Tile Association 2012

1. FOREWORD

This paper “Tiling with resin agglomerated tiles” has been prepared by a Technical

Working Group of The Tile Association.

The paper has been written with the aim of providing advice for all parties involved

in the use of resin agglomerated tile and should be used in conjunction with current

and forthcoming British, European and International Standards.

The Tile Association acknowledges the support given by members of the Working

Group and BASA in the drafting of this document.

2 HISTORY AND SCOPE

As part of its services, The Tile Association offers an independent inspection service.

A number of inspections have highlighted failures associated with the use of resin

agglomerated tiles which has led to the drafting of this document.

British Standard BS5385‐5:2009 clause 11.1 states “Agglomerated stone products are

manufactured from hydraulic cement, resin or a mixture of both, combined with

stone and other aggregates.”

British Standard BS EN 14618 is the Standard that determines the classification of

agglomerated stone. Details of other Standards are listed in the bibliography.

This document sets out to provide advice on considerations to be given to the

physical characteristics of resin agglomerated tiles, the substrate, fixing, cleaning and

maintenance of resin agglomerated tiles on internal walls and floors.

3. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RESIN AGGLOMERATED

TILES

3.1 Production

Generally, three types of resin agglomerated floor tiles are available, these are:

marble

granite

quartz

Marble and granite are used to manufacture blocks, which comprise a mix of 95%

selected and dried raw materials and 5% polyester resins (this will vary depending

on the manufacturer, some manufacturers use a higher percentage of resin, which

can affect the performance of the floor tiles. A higher percentage of resin will

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increase the coefficient of thermal expansion and reduce abrasion resistance). These

materials are vibro‐compressed under vacuum and allowed to stand while the resin

generates heat to set the block within two days. The blocks are stored for a further

seven days and then cut into slabs to produce 12mm, 20mm and 30mm slabs.

Individual slabs can also be manufactured using quartz and granite, using the same

selection and mixing of raw materials and resins, but pressed between two paper

sheets as individual slabs and cured in a curing chamber at 80 – 85˚C for

approximately one hour, then allowed to cool and then finished to meet client

requirements.

3.2 Sizes

Slabs vary in size between different manufacturers; slabs produced from blocks are

generally 3050 x 1250mm, whereas quartz slabs are generally larger because of the

kitchen worktop market.

Tile sizes, as with all products, are generally available in large and small formats.

Examples of these are:

1200 x 1200mm

1200 x 600mm

600 x 600mm

600 x 300mm

400 x 400mm

300 x 300mm

Other sizes can be cut upon request. Generally skirtings are available to match with

a finished top edge

Resin agglomerated tiles are normally available in thicknesses between 10mm‐12mm.

They are also available in greater thicknesses for heavy duty conditions.

Since the materials are cut from slabs the dimensional accuracy is generally high and

in accordance with BS EN 14617‐12.

3.3 Finishes and edge details

The standard surface finishes are:

polished

honed

sand blasted

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The edges are typically finished either square or bevelled to suit the designer’s

requirement. The square edged tile will resemble a natural stone tile. A bevelled

edge will give a more recessed joint.

Because of the need to meet HSE requirements for Slip Resistance (ref: ‐ Safer

Surfaces to Walk On, CIRIA C652/2010) the manufacturers have been continually

developing new surfaces to increase the SRV (Slip Resistance Value) for Pendulum

Testing and a range of alternative finishes is available to suit most situations. (See

clause 4.1.2)

3.4 Characteristics/performance

Because the products consist predominantly of natural materials, they have

performance characteristics similar to natural stone.

Granite and quartz agglomerated tiles are harder wearing than those made with

marble. The particular performance and suitability in locations should be confirmed

with the manufacturer.

Granite and quartz agglomerated tiles are more resistant to acidic chemicals than

marble agglomerated composite tiles.

3.5 Moisture sensitivity

Resin agglomerated tiles may show varying degrees of moisture sensitivity and this

characteristic is exhibited by curling caused by differential expansion.

For this reason, it is essential that any cementitious floor screeds to receive resin

agglomerated tiles should be completely cured and tested to ensure that they have a

moisture content of not more than 2% by weight or 75% relative humidity using the

appropriate test equipment and also that an appropriate adhesive is chosen. See

clause 4.3

Resin agglomerated tiles are not recommended for use in external areas or

swimming pools or any other water retaining structures, e.g. spa baths or fountains.

Resin agglomerated tiles can be used externally on facades by utilising mechanical

fixing.

3.6 Thermal movement

Generally, agglomerated tiles will have a higher coefficient of thermal expansion

than porcelain or natural stone. This is reflected in the recommendations for

frequency of movement joints and guidance in British Standard BS5385‐5:2009 clause

4.4.

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Table 1 – Typical coefficient of thermal expansion of hard construction flooring

products

This table of the coefficient of thermal expansion (C.T.E.) illustrates the typical thermal movement of

resin agglomerated stone tiles compared to other materials.

Type of Hard Flooring C.T.E x 10‐6 oC‐1 Comparison with Concrete

Concrete 10

Sand:cement screeds 9‐10 Medium

Group Blb dust pressed

tiles

5 to 9 Medium

Group Bla dust pressed

tiles

6 to 7 Medium

Resin agglomerated stone

tiles*

7 to 38 Can be very high, greater

than most bases

Granite & Basalt 6 to 9 Medium

Marble 3.5 to 7 Low to medium

Limestone & Dolomite 6 to 10 Medium

Sandstone 11 to 12 Medium

Quartzite 11 to 13 Medium

Glass tiles & mosaics 7‐9 Medium

Terrazzo 7 to 13 Medium

Slate 3 to 9 Low to medium

*These are general values, Check with the manufacturer for further information

about specific products

3.7 Abrasion resistance

The abrasion resistance for all resin agglomerated stone products reflects their

natural stone components.

Marble agglomerated tiles have a lower abrasion resistance than quartz or granite

agglomerated tiles but may still be suitable in heavily trafficked areas. Consult the

tile manufacturer for guidance.

Polished products are more likely to show scratch marks.

3.8 Transportation and storage of product

Smaller size products are supplied in boxes and the larger size in crates. Resin

agglomerated stone tiles should be protected from water during transportation.

Resin agglomerate tiles should not be stored externally unless they are completely

protected from direct sunlight, water, rain and frost. Deliveries should be

coordinated so that the materials can be stored correctly.

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Materials should remain in their purchased packaging for as long as possible. They

should be stored flat and not leant against walls.

The tiles should be acclimatised. See Clause 5

4. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

4.1 Tile selection

It is important to consider the physical characteristics of resin agglomerated tiles and

the service conditions of the tiling project before any design decisions are made.

Resin agglomerated tiles are normally available in thicknesses between 10mm‐12mm.

They are also available in greater thicknesses for heavy duty conditions.

The surface finish should be considered with regard to slip resistance, traffic

conditions, spillage and maintenance. Because both tiles and slabs are produced

from the same materials it facilitates the design decision on surfaces such as steps

and risers, worktops etc.

4.1.1 Appearance

There is a wide choice of colour availability because of the extensive range of

coloured aggregate fillers.

Because it is a manufactured product it can be altered to include reflective fillers and

other features.

Resin agglomerated tiles are usually supplied polished, honed or sand blasted.

Polished finishes are generally used where a reflective surface is required and slip

resistance is less important. A honed finish tile is chosen for its matt appearance

where a reflection is not required and has improved slip resistance.

A sand blasted finish is used when a higher slip resistance is required e.g.

intermittent wet locations.

Surface texture will affect the cleaning regime required. When considering choice of

texture it is important to understand there is a compromise between slip resistance

and ease of cleaning and/or maintenance.

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4.1.2 Service conditions

Resin agglomerated tiles have different properties from natural stone and ceramic

materials and these differences should be taken into account at the design stage. For

example:

slip

traffic conditions

thermal conditions

intermittently wet locations

submersed locations

Slip

Materials to provide safe surfaces for walking is something which is continually

evolving with manufacturers developing new finishes to cope with the demands of

buildings and their design.

One of the most informative documents on this subject is the CIRIA C652, produced

in collaboration with all sectors of the building industry.

This document provides some interesting guidelines, but one of the main features is

the Slip Assessment Tool (SAT), which can be found on the HSE website

www.hsesat.info. This enables the designer or owner of a building to undertake a

Risk Assessment on the building and areas of concern, so as to establish the element

of risk which they are prepared to accept and then to select a material with a Slip

Resistance Value to match that risk.

The table, as printed in the CIRIA document, is shown below:

Risk

1 in:

Minimum SRV

(see also Section 4.2.2)

Qualitative categories

(from Table 3.1)

1 000 000 36 Low

100 000 34 Medium

10 000 29 Medium

200 27 Medium

20, i.e. 5 per cent 24 High

“BRE qualifies this data by indicating that it was obtained from a small sample size,

using fit persons at a moderate walking pace. The figures relate to a normal walking

situation with no pushing or pulling or turning tight corners, and utilising a

horizontal surface. If these conditions are not met, the required SRV for the same

risk of slipping will be higher. Note that the SRV values given in Table 4.2 are

“installed” figures. To compensate for degradation of SRV during installation and a

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high density of wear, some specifiers stipulate an increased figure.” (CIRIA

Document)

The method which is adopted to obtain the Slip Resistance Values of floors is the

Pendulum Method, which measures the coefficient of friction of the tile surface. It is

important to note that the requirement for stone and porcelain is different; The UK

Slip Resistance Group recommend the use of a 4S slider for porcelain and a TRL soft

rubber slider for stone. This can affect the results so it is important to make sure that

the test equipment is compliant.

In wet areas for high use public buildings, it is important to ensure that a high Slip

Resistance Value is obtained in both wet and dry conditions and generally a

minimum Slip Resistance Value of SRV 36 should be considered. However, this can

be changed in buildings which can clearly establish that areas of their building are

dry and uncontaminated. In these situations, it would be possible to use the dry

results of the Pendulum Test in order to establish a suitable Slip Resistance. This

means that areas such as large circulation areas in airport buildings and shopping

centres, which are away from the main entrance areas, can be designated as dry areas

and therefore a smoother finish can be provided which will also assist with the

cleaning and maintenance of the building.

Careful consideration should be given at the design stage to the anticipated and

likely prevailing service conditions the finished floor surface will have to endure.

There are a number of different factors, listed but not in any particular order, which

have to be considered when selecting a flooring product for a particular application –

Wet or dry

Aesthetics and colouration Contamination of the floor finish

Coordination with other finishing materials e.g. wall tiles

Durability and wearing properties

Ease of cleaning and maintenance

Method of bedding and compatibility with substrate

Product conformance to appropriate standards

Ramped floors have more demanding slip resistance requirements

Size and scale of flooring units Slip resistance (as supplied and on‐going through life of installation)

The entrance is the most important area, so the introduction of high quality barrier

matting for both the initial primary matting and also considering the introduction of

secondary matting, external canopies and selection of door types to slow the progress

of people entering buildings, will all help to reduce water ingress.

The selection of product should aim to satisfy the above and ensure that the flooring

material selected is fit for purpose. Slip resistance should be one of the most

important design considerations as the safe movement of people over the flooring is

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crucial. There are suitable surface textures available to suit a wide range of

requirements.

For further and more detailed information on Slip Resistance, refer to TTA

publication ‘Slip Resistance of Hard Flooring’.

Traffic conditions

See clause 3.7

Thermal conditions

Where there are likely to be thermal changes such as in conservatories, atria or where

hot water piped underfloor heating or electric cable undertile heating systems have

been installed, consultation with the manufacturer with regard to the suitability of

the resin agglomerated tile for the envisaged application will be necessary. It is likely

that movement joints will be required at a greater frequency than currently indicated

within BS 5385‐4 and BS5385‐5 i.e. bays of size not greater than 25m² with an edge

length not greater than 6m, to accommodate the high thermal expansion of the resin

agglomerated tile.

Intermittently wet conditions

Wet conditions could include showers and wet rooms but not total immersion.

Because of the higher coefficients of thermal and moisture expansion, assurances

should be sought from the supplier or manufacturer of the resin agglomerated stone

tile that it will be fit for the intended purpose and whether any precautionary

measures should be taken during and post installation. The frequency of shower use

and the ability of the facility to dry out between periods of use would need to be

taken into consideration.

The shower design should be such that water is quickly and effectively channelled

away from the tiled floor area to the drainage outlet in order to keep water contact to

a minimum. Consideration may be given to the use of epoxy resin grouts to help

provide impervious joints and a proprietary tanking system should be applied to the

substrate.

Submersed conditions

Due to the high degree of moisture expansion the suitability of resin agglomerated

tiles in a total immersion situation such as swimming pools, fountains etc. is not

recommended.

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4.2 Background/substrate

Resin agglomerated tiles should be fixed to a dry, flat, cohesively strong, stable and

rigid substrate that is free from surface contamination such as dust, laitance, grease,

wax, loose or flaking areas etc.

In general the moisture content should be determined in line with current standards

and the recommendations of substrate manufacturers. Consultation with the

agglomerated stone manufacturer should also be undertaken to ascertain the

maximum moisture levels permitted prior to the installation of their material. The

sub‐floor may be considered adequately dry when a cement:sand screed registers not

more than 75% RH when tested with a flooring hygrometer or not more than 2%

using the Carbide method.

4.2.1 Wall substrate

Wall substrates should be strong enough to take the weight of the agglomerated

stone and the associated adhesive bed.

The guidelines given in BS 5385‐1 should be followed.

Table 2 Weight restrictions of wall substrates

Wall Substrates Maximum Weight of

Tiling per m²

Unmodified Gypsum

Plaster*

20kg/m²

Gypsum Plasterboard

Direct (without a

plaster skim)

32kg/m²

Plywood Up to 30kg/m²

Lightweight Tilebacker

Boards

Up to 60kg/m².

Dependent upon the

type and thickness of the

board. Consult

manufacturer

Glass reinforced

Cement Sheets

Up to 50kg/m²,

Dependent upon the

type and thickness of the

board.

Gypsum Fibre boards Approximately 35‐

40kg/m²

*This background is unsuitable for use with resin agglomerated tiles

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10mm thick resin agglomerated tiles normally weighs 25Kg/m²



A 1mm thickness of tile adhesive will add a further 1.5Kg/m²

4.2.2 Floor substrates

Floors that are to be tiled should be free from deflection and should rigidly

accommodate the additional dead load.

The guidelines in BS 5385‐3 and BS 5385‐5 should be followed.

4.2.2.1 Sand:cement screeds

Sand:cement screeds should comply with recommendations of BS 8204‐1 and should

be sufficiently sound. The surface should conform to surface regularity SR1

Final finishing to SR1 can be achieved by using a smoothing or levelling compound.

4.2.2.2 Power floated concrete

Power floated concrete should be prepared and finished to category SR1 and be

prepared by contained shot blasting or similar.

4.2.2.3 Timber boards

Timber sub‐boards should be sufficiently stable and free from deflection. Follow the

recommendations laid down in BS5385‐3:2007 clauses 6.3.4.2 or 6.3.4.3 and in the Tile

Association document “Tiling to Timber and Timber based products”.

Plywood should conform to BS EN 636‐3 which supersedes the current requirements

for WPB plywood.

4.2.2.4 Raised access flooring

The raised access flooring should be rigid with no movement or lipping between

adjacent sections. Where possible the floor panels should be screw fixed to the

supports, which in turn should be locked into position and firmly fixed to the floor

beneath. This is to prevent potential dislodgement / movement at a later date caused

by vibration.

To further strengthen the substrate it is recommended that the raised access flooring

is over‐boarded. The boarding should be screw‐fixed at maximum 300 mm centres

with boards being laid staggered to avoid cruciform joints.

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For best results:

1 layer of minimum 15mm plywood screwed at 300mm centres as defined in

BS5385‐3

For more rigidity an additional minimum layer of 10mm plywood or tile

backerboard laid at 90 degree angles to each other

1 or 2 layers of moisture stable strong tile backer board, the thickness of which

should be ascertained from the manufacturer.

Leave a gap around each timber based board of 3 mm in intermediate locations and 6

mm around perimeters and any interruptions in the floor. Fill the 6 mm joints with a

suitable elastic sealant.

Note: To safeguard against the potential for moisture ingress or condensation within

the void beneath the raised access flooring then it is recommended that the backs and

edges of plywood sheets used for over‐boarding are sealed with a suitable moisture

impervious sealer. Advice should be sought from the adhesive manufacturer

regarding primer selection.

4.2.2.5 Tile backer board

Seek advice from the proprietary tile backer board manufacturer.

4.2.2.6 Uncoupling membranes

Anti‐fracture membranes

This type of membrane can prove beneficial where the substrate is less than perfect

e.g. for the bridging of stress cracks within the existing floor, or to help in

neutralising lateral movement stresses. However, given the higher coefficients of

thermal and moisture expansion of agglomerate stone material compared with other

tile finishes, anti‐fracture membranes must only be installed once informed advice

has been sought.

The use of an anti‐fracture membrane should not be considered should the installed

agglomerated stone tile exhibit a tendency to curl.

Waterproofing / tanking

The agglomerate stone selected must be suitable for use in wet rooms / showers etc.

and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. As a tiled finish

installed using these products is unlikely to provide a watertight barrier the usual

precautions in a shower environment will need to be taken. Therefore the substrate

will need to be tanked using a suitable waterproof membrane before beginning tile

fixing. Further advice can be found in the TTA publication ‘Tiling in wet rooms’.

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Note that it is inadvisable to install resin agglomerated stone tiles that exhibit or have

a tendency to curl due to the effects of moisture in wet rooms or showers.

4.2.2.7 Surface membranes

Because of the higher coefficient of moisture expansion of resin agglomerated stone

tiles it is essential that substrates to which these tiles are to be bonded, are dry. In

many cases a concrete or sand:cement screed substrate may be sufficiently cured and

consequently free from shrinkage but may still contain high levels of residual

moisture. In these cases a surface applied liquid membrane may be used to form a

barrier between substrate and stone. When installing such membranes, ensure that

the manufacturer’s recommendations are followed with regard to maximum

moisture content suppression, effective substrate preparation, application techniques

etc.

Note: Some Surface membranes are designed to combat residual moisture but not

rising damp. Therefore ensure that a functioning damp proof membrane has been

installed beneath the base slab.

4.2.2.8 Tanking systems

Seek advice from the proprietary tanking system manufacturer.

4.3 Adhesive and grout selection

Before undertaking a resin agglomerated stone tile installation, it is important that

particular attention is paid to the choice of adhesive and grout. Due to the high

coefficient of moisture expansion any moisture from the adhesive bed can potentially

result in warping or curling of the tile. Other physical characteristics such as colour,

chemical composition, water absorption, high coefficient of thermal expansion also

need to be considered when installing the material.

4.3.1 Adhesive selection

When selecting an adhesive it is important to take the physical properties of the resin

agglomerated tile into consideration. As some of these types of resin agglomerated

tiles and slabs are susceptible to moisture deformation during the fixing process it is

essential to eliminate as much moisture from the adhesive bed as soon as possible

after fixing. Clause 11.2.1 of BS5385‐3:2009 advises “To avoid moisture from the

adhesive bed distorting resin based agglomerated stone, reaction resin adhesives, or

quick drying low alkalinity cement based adhesives should be used”. This can be

provided by either a rapid drying low alkalinity two part adhesive of cementitious

powder and aqueous polymer dispersion, or a rapid drying low alkalinity

cementitious adhesive, specifically designed for the installation of moisture sensitive

agglomerated stone tiling. In all cases the mixing water should be rapidly hydrated

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so that the adhesive bed beneath the tile hardens, and more importantly, dries

rapidly.

Where the agglomerated stone is especially moisture sensitive then a water‐free

adhesive should be selected such as those based on epoxy or polyurethane resins.

When light coloured resin agglomerated tiles are installed there may be advantages

in selecting white adhesives, particularly where the tiles are translucent or partially

translucent.

In general the low water absorption necessitates the use of adhesives that develop

high adhesion strength and a strong bond.

To accommodate the thermal movement it would be beneficial to select an adhesive

with quantifiable deformation performance such as those classified as S1 or S2 to BS

EN 12004. Thermal expansion of the agglomerated stone can be influenced by any

temperature change such as underfloor heating systems, direct sunlight or from

general changes in the ambient conditions.

BS 5385‐5:2009 clause 11.2.1 states “To avoid moisture from the adhesive bed

distorting resin‐based agglomerated stone products, reaction resin adhesives or

quick drying low alkalinity cement‐based adhesives should be used.”

Dependent on which of the criteria above apply, an adhesive conforming to BS EN

12004 from the following list should be selected:

Reaction resin adhesive, R1 or R2 classification

Cementitious two‐part rapid setting adhesive, C2F S1, C2F S2

Where specifically recommended by the manufacturer select an adhesive

which is rapid drying low moisture content rapid setting cementitious one‐

part adhesive.

Note: The use of a cement based adhesive with S2 classification should be used

where the loading and traffic conditions are not heavy.

Further guidance should be sought from the tile and adhesive manufacturer.

The recommendations given are to minimise the water ingress into the back of the

resin agglomerated stone tile where there is a potential for warping / curling from

the effects of moisture in the adhesive bed. The use of a reaction resin adhesive, or a

rapid hardening and quick drying cementitious adhesive will be advantageous.

Rapid hardening and quick drying cementitious adhesives with low water content

(e.g. two part systems) will also reduce the water ingress into the underside of the

tile and reduce the potential for any adverse reaction with the resin binder.

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4.3.2 Grout

It is important to check with the supplier of the agglomerated stone tiles to establish

if the tiles should be sealed before the grouting process begins. If this is the case, to

ensure good adhesion of the grout mortar in the joints, care should be taken to

ensure that the sealer is confined to the surface of the tiles and that the sizes of the

tiles remain untreated.

Resin based agglomerated tiles should be grouted with improved cement‐based

grouts classified CG2 to BS EN 13888 (e.g. CG2A, CG2W or CG2WA) or alternatively

with water‐free resin based RG grouts. Where cement‐based grouts are used there

may be advantages in using rapid setting and drying cementitious grouts which

minimise water contact with the tile.

4.4 Movement joints

The type and position of movement joints in resin agglomerated stone tiles should be

as described in BS5385‐5, however resin agglomerated tiles require movement joints

at a higher frequency that take into account the high coefficient of thermal expansion.

The type and design of the movement joint should be fit for purpose.

In normal conditions movement joints should be installed at bay sizes not exceeding

36m2 and for underfloor heating not more than 25m2.

The Tile Association document “Movement Joints” states “Like all building

materials, resin agglomerated tiles exhibit dimensional changes in response to

fluctuations in environmental conditions.”

BS 5385‐5: 2009 provides advice in clause 11.4.1 on the type and positions of

movement joints in agglomerated stone flooring should be as described in clause 8,

but advises that resin based units require movement joints at a higher frequency that

take into account their greatly increased coefficient of thermal expansion. It includes

a note that resin based flooring units can have a coefficient of thermal expansion

more than three times that of cement terrazzo and natural stone.

The sub‐clauses also include information on the clause dealing with structural

movement joints. It also advises that where flooring abuts restraining surfaces such

as perimeter walls, columns, kerbs, steps and plant fixed to the base, perimeter joints

should be installed unless the distance between restraining surfaces is less than 2 m.

Note that movement joints should be placed where the flooring runs across door

thresholds and be contiguous with the perimeter movement joints.

It is becoming more common to use stone units bedded on to other materials with

different movement characteristics. As a result there is a need to provide stress

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relieving movement joints to prevent damage resulting from restrained dimensional

change which can manifest itself as minor spalling at grouted joints, or fracture and

major dislocation of stone units.

Where resin agglomerated flooring is subjected to high temperatures (i.e. over

heating installations or from strong sunshine) an assessment of the likely

temperature range and corresponding linear changes should be made.

It is difficult to calculate the anticipated movement with precision but, fortunately, in

the majority of cases this is unnecessary. Movement joints are provided in the floor

at widths and spacings which are known from experience to be satisfactory and also

where movement joints occur in the substrate. The positions of movement joints

must be established before work commences.

Any movement joints must be properly formed, according to the degree of exposure,

with a suitable flexible material. The extension capability and recovery performance

of the chosen joint former or sealant will frequently determine the actual joint width.

This section suggests spacings and sizes for movement joints in normal

environments.

It is important that the designed minimum gap is not obstructed. A careful check

should be carried out before joints are sealed. Perimeter joints can usually be hidden

beneath the skirting

Unusual circumstances, novel construction details or contaminated environments

will all need special consideration and the extent of any movement should always be

carefully calculated.

Where day work joints occur in the screed they should be bonded during screed

installation as recommended in BS8204‐1 and where movement joints are required in

the floor joints should be post‐cut in the screed during setting out of the floor tiling.

Reinforcement in screeds should cross all day work joints to ensure that no

unpredicted movement can affect the performance of the agglomerated stone

flooring, particularly where the stone is installed using adhesive.

Where underfloor heating is used the pipes or cables should be located to ensure that

the system is contained within the pattern of movement joints.

Movement joints for the flooring described in this code are as follows:

a) flexible joints aligned to structural movement joints

b) flexible movement joints to accommodate smaller movements than structural

joints

c) contraction joints which are non‐compressible to relieve tension

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Further information can be found in the TTA publication “Movement Joints in

Internal Tiling”.

4.5 Underfloor heating

It is important to consider the high coefficient of thermal expansion of resin

agglomerated tiles, see clause 4.4 regarding movement joints. Consult the tile

supplier before using resin agglomerated tiles with underfloor heating systems

Where large format tiles (i.e. with a single side 600mm or greater) are being used

consideration should be given to using wider joint widths.

Because there will be a higher rate of thermal movement consideration should be

given to using smaller bay sizes. See clause 4.4

The floor should be commissioned as described in the Tile Association document

“Tiling to heated floors”

Further information can be found in the Tile Association document “Tiling to heated

floors”.

4.5.1 Electrical undertile heating systems

When using this form of underfloor heating it is important to ensure there is no

contact between the heating cable, mesh and the back of the tile. This can be

achieved by using self levelling compound or a thin layer of tile adhesive which is

allowed to cure and dry before tiles are fixed.

5. INSTALLATION

Resin agglomerated tiles should be stored in the areas where they are to be used.

Resin agglomerated tiles should not be stored outside and ensure that the

temperature when the tiles are being laid is above 5 degree Centigrade in accordance

with BS5385 and BS800‐11.

See section 3.5 and 4.3 regarding dryness of the substrate.

5.1 Walls

The ideal background for resin agglomerated tiles is sand:cement render or

proprietary tile backer board, both of which are dimensionally stable and of

sufficient cohesive strength.

The background should be checked with a 2 m straight edge to ensure that any gap

between points of contact behind the straight edge does not exceed 3mm.

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Fixing using a suitable notched trowel and back buttering of the tile should ensure

adequate adhesive coverage. Tiles should be checked during the fixing process to

ensure solid bedding has been achieved.

See Clause 5.3 for grouting process.

5.2 Floors

The subfloor should be checked with a 2 m straight edge to ensure that any gap

behind the straight edge does not exceed 3mm.

Pre‐smoothing or levelling compound may be used to achieve surface regularity SR1

using a primer where required.

Fixing using a solid bed notched trowel and back buttering of the tile should ensure

adequate coverage. Tiles should be checked during the fixing process to ensure solid

bedding has been achieved.

Se Clause 5.3 for grouting process.

5.3 Grouting

Grouting should be performed when the adhesive has hardened adequately by

referring to manufacturer’s instructions. This time period will be dependent on the

rate of strength development of the adhesive and site conditions. Cementitious

grout should be mixed with the amount of water recommended by the manufacturer.

Reaction resin adhesives may require longer curing times.

Grouting should not be unduly delayed as open joints might collect general building

dust and deleterious substances. Avoid using excessive amounts of water during the

grouting process.

Cement based grout should be cleaned off within the recommended working time

and using the minimum amount of water.

Reaction resin grout should be cleaned off within the working time ensuring that all

traces are removed from the face of the tile.

5.4 Cutting tiles

The preferred cutting method is a rotary wet tile cutting machine. The operator must

wear appropriate PPE. Tiles should be wiped dry after cutting.

Tiles can also be cut using a dry angle grinder.

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Care should be taken to immediately remove any residue from the tile before fixing,

especially from the back and side.

It is not possible to cut these tiles using a standard scribe and snap cutter.

Resin agglomerated tiles should be drilled with a drill with a water feed and dried

immediately afterwards.

6. TOLERANCES

Local variations in level for a nominally flat floor should be such that, when checked

with a 2 m straightedge, any gap under the straightedge, between points of contact,

does not exceed 3 mm.

There should be no appreciable difference in levels across joints and the maximum

deviation between tile surfaces on either side of the joint should be:

For joints less than 6 mm wide, 1mm

For joints 6 mm or wider, 2 mm

7. HEALTH AND SAFETY

7.1 Handling

Correct handling should be observed ensuring that all operatives have received

training in the correct lifting techniques.

Some large pieces of resin agglomerated tile could weigh in the region of 36kg per

piece, which exceeds the requirements for manual handling for a single person to

carry, it is therefore imperative that the slab is lifted by 2 or more people or

alternatively using suitable mechanical handling equipment.

7.2 Cutting/dust

Operatives must be competent in the use of all cutting and drilling equipment and

test certification must be available for all mechanical/electrical equipment used on

site.

Wherever possible the use of a wet cutting machine is recommended in order to

ensure a good quality edge is achieved and also to reduce the amount of dust during

the operation. The operative must wear protective ear defenders and goggles and

always clean and dry the pieces after they have been cut.

If dry cutting blades are adopted the operative must be equipped with ear defenders,

mask and goggles in accordance with the site safety procedures and wherever

possible with extract facilities to reduce the dust levels.

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Equipment must be regularly checked and maintained to ensure that noise levels are

kept to a minimum.

7.3 Chemicals/adhesives

Safety data sheets should be provided for all products used in the installation of

Resin Agglomerated tiles. Any exposure advice should be followed.

7.4 Risk assessment and method statements (RAMS)

All operatives are required to read and understand RAMS as prepared for each

project prior to starting work on site.

7.5 Slip resistance

Slip resistance of floors is normally measured by BS 7976 – Pendulum Test which

measures the co‐efficient of friction in both wet and dry conditions. Most architects

and designers will require test results on the materials specified for a project in order

to ascertain the performance of the tile finish. However in accordance with HSE

requirements it is imperative that the areas are defined as wet or dry environments

so that a decision can be made on the most suitable finish.

The slip resistance of floor finishes is drastically affected by the introduction of

impregnator sealers and polishes which could reduce the slip resistance performance

Correct cleaning and maintenance procedures are essential.

8. ENVIRONMENT

Resin agglomerated tiles are manufactured using a high proportion of recycled

natural stone waste taken from granite and marble quarries after the normal stone

cutting process. Some quartz tiles include recycled glass.

Some special resin (binder) is produced from collected and recycled plastic (PET)

bottles.

All waste materials and rubbish must be cleared as work proceeds and segregated in

accordance with site requirements into appropriate skips as provided on site.

9. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

Steam mops should not be used for cleaning resin agglomerated tiles.

On installation of these tiles, it is important to ascertain whether these tiles will

require sealing. Ideally this information should be known by the supplier and advice

given.

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Marble based resin agglomerated tile may require sealing depending on the

manufacturer’s recommendations.

Always ensure that the correct impregnator is used; most water based sealers will be

repelled by the resin binder in the tile. The use of a solvent based product will be

required in most cases, always test on an un‐laid tile before treating the whole area as

some solvent products may cause damage to the surface structure of the tile.

Pre‐sealing some resin tiles will also greatly facilitate the removal of the grout

residue. It will also protect against possible bleed, tram‐lining or picture framing.

These expressions describe the shadowing that an unsealed tile can show if the face

and edges are not sealed. This effect can be caused by moisture, sometimes

contaminated with grout colourant, which can be absorbed into the edges of some

resin tiles. Such staining can be very difficult to remove from these tiles. Seek advice

from the manufacturer or supplier.

Please Note; some impregnator or sealer manufacturers may recommend a minimum

time before the grouting process is commenced in order to leave sufficient curing

time for impregnators/sealers. Always follow manufacturer’s guidelines.

Installation/builders clean

After the grouting is completely dry, the floor may need a gentle wash to remove any

residue of grouting, or any grease or grime marks that may have occurred during the

installation processes.

A mild alkaline product formulated specifically for this process can be used in

conjunction with a white non‐scratch pad. Always follow the manufacturer’s

instructions. It is recommended to clean a test area. If the problem persists contact

the manufacturer or supplier for appropriate product and application advice.

Daily/weekly maintenance

Using the correct maintenance products on resin agglomerated tiles is not only the

key for the longevity of the impregnators (if used) but also ensures the surface of the

tile remains in good condition.

Damage can occur to a tiled finish by misuse or incorrect maintenance due to

inadequate instructions. Clients or personnel, responsible for the maintenance of

such floors, should ideally be given full information by the supplier; this includes a

full cleaning and maintenance schedule.

Ideally all floors will be vacuumed (brushes down) or brushed to remove any surface

grit and dust. The floor will then be washed over using a proprietary cleaner, which

is ideally applied with a sponge mop (larger areas can be completed with driven

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cleaning machines). This should ensure that any excess water and dirt is carried

away and not left on the surface or in grout joints to evaporate. Some daily cleaners

may need rinsing other will require natural drying, always follow the manufactures

instructions for best results.

Deeper cleaning

All floors will require a general maintenance schedule, which will indicate when a

deeper clean is required i.e. spring clean or a general refreshing of the surface finish.

Any stubborn stains (e.g. rubber shoe marks, light oil stains or dirty grout) can

normally be removed with specific multi‐purpose cleaner. Care should be taken with

these deeper cleaners, as excessive use can have an effect on resins. Always follow

manufacturer’s instructions or contact them for detailed instructions of use.

Household and commercial cleaning products must be used with caution as they

may contain bleaching agents, or ingredients that may burn or discolour resin

finishes. Contact the manufacturer or supplier for advice and product information.

10 REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY

BS EN 636‐3:2003 Plywood. Specifications

BS 5385‐1:2009 Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of ceramic, natural stone

and mosaic wall tiling in normal internal conditions. Code of practice

BS 5385‐2:2006 Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of external ceramic and

mosaic wall tiling in normal conditions. Code of practice

BS 5385 ‐3:2007 Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of internal and external

ceramic and mosaic floor tiling in normal conditions. Code of practice

BS 5385‐4 :2009 Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of ceramic and mosaic

tiling in special conditions. Code of practice

BS 5385‐5:2009 Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of terrazzo, natural stone

and agglomerated stone tile and slab flooring. Code of practice

BS 8204‐1:2003+A1:2009Part 1: Concrete bases and cementitious levelling screeds to

receive floorings – Code of practice

BS EN 12004:2007 Adhesives for tiles – definitions and specifications

BS EN 13888:2009 Grouts for tiles – Definitions and specifications

BS EN 14617:2008 Agglomerated Stone Test Methods

BS EN 14617‐1:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of apparent

density and water absorption

BS EN 14617‐2:2008 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of flexural

strength (bending)

BS EN 14617‐4:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of abrasion

resistance

BS EN 14617‐5:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods Determination of freeze and

thaw resistance.

BS EN 14617‐6:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of thermal

shock resistance.

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BS EN 14617‐9:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of impact

resistance.

BS EN 14617‐10:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of chemical

resistance

BS EN 14617‐11:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of linear

thermal expansion coefficient.

BS EN 14617‐12:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of

dimensional stability

BS EN 14617‐13:2005 Agglomerated stone. Test methods. Determination of electrical

resistivity.


compressive strength


dimensions, geometric characteristics and surface quality of modular tiles.

BS EN 14618:2009 Agglomerated Stone

BS EN 15285:2008 Agglomerated stone. Modular tiles for flooring and stairs (internal

and external)

British, European and International Standards are available for purchase from the

British Standards Institution, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL

The Tile Association documents:

Movement Joints in Internal Tiling

The Cleaning of Ceramic Tiles

The Slip Resistance of Hard Flooring

Tiling to Timber and Timber based products

Tiling in Wet Areas

Tiling to Heated Floors

11. MEMBERS OF THE WORKING GROUP

Billy Valler Lesley Day

Bob Howard Lisa Breakspear

Bob Sewell Lorna Williams

Brian Newell Neil Sparrow

Colin Stanyard Peter Dawson

Cyril Potter Richard Friebe

David Wilson Shelley Johnson

Don Slade

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