Site installation - Recommendations for installation with optimal results
In addition to the technical and aesthetic qualities of the material, the success of a floor in ARIOSTEA material is due to a series of elements (subfloor, binding layer, expansion joints, etc.) that constitute a true flooring system. The correct execution of the laying operations is thus absolutely essential for ensuring a perfect final result. The materials can be laid using either adhesives or cement mortar. In choosing the most suitable adhesive and application methods, the layer should follow the instructions provided by the adhesive manufacturer. In places subject to heavy traffic or the passage of heavy loads it is advisable to choose a laying system with adhesives. The ARIOSTEA products are natural materials in terms of both the raw materials used and the particular production technologies, which tend to simulate the random aspects of natural formation. Colour variations are thus a desired characteristic that the layer's skill can enhance, making it possible to achieve unique and unrepeatable results. To highlight the characteristics of the material, we recommend that the layer follow these instructions:
- Spread out a number of pieces (at least 3 square metres) on the floor to check the overall effect. When laying the material, mix the contents of different boxes.
- Do not immerse the material in water before laying.
- When using the traditional laying system, beat down the material until any cavities or air bubbles in the mortar are eliminated and until the liquid cement comes out of the joints.
- Especially on polished surfaces, when cuts have to be made, do not mark the fine face with pencils or felt pens.
- Wait 48-72 hours before allowing normal traffic on the floor.
GROUTING
A - If installing with normal setting adhesives, grout the floor after 24 / 48 hours; if using quicksetting adhesives, after 4 hours.
B - On honed and polished materials use cement grouts with “colour shade on colour shade” (avoid if possible dark coloured grouts such as black, blue and red on light coloured materials, and vice-versa). Should you decide to use contrasting colour grouts anyway, carefully follow the information given in the specifications and first test the grout on the material however. Don’t use flexible mortars based on synthetic materials for grouting these surfaces, especially if there is a colour contrast with the materials and don’t add additives/latices to the grout. These in fact make it extremely difficult to remove any residues with common detergents.
C - Spread the grout over the entire surface of the material with a rubberized spatula.
D - Grout small surfaces one at a time removing excess quantities with a sponge or a damp cloth (with clean water only) or use a special machine to remove the excess grout when the layer of grout is still damp.
INITIAL CLEANING
E - Adequate initial cleaning is of fundamental importance, both for enhancing aesthetic and shine features and for restoring characteristic durability and ease of ordinary maintenance. It is therefore very important that initial cleaning is carried out immediately after laying using acid base products, rubbing hard and then rinsing with plenty of water. In this way it will be possible to eliminate the residues of grout, adhesives, cement, etc. It is possible to use any of the detergents available on the market, with the only exception of products containing hydrofluoric acid (composites and derivates) as per Rule EN 176.
AFTER CLEANING
F - We recommend proper protection of the installed floor.
Should it be necessary to carry out other operations such as distempering, plumbing work or any other type of work, we recommend, after the installation is completed, to cover the floor with PVC sheets, AIRBALLS or fabrics. It is also necessary to wait 48/72 hours before subjecting the floor to normal traffic.
The site installation service is a global offer of products and guaranteed services in which each phase is integrated with the following ones to achieve the best aesthetic and functional final result. In particular, all products are designed by the companies being part of the group to obtain greater performances in association with Ariostea products. The site installation of Ariostea wall and floor coverings is available for all users (designers, companies, buyers) who want to be sure of having a high quality result. Our squared rectified products supplied in single work size and, in particular, those with a polished surface are characterised by high precision dimensions. Therefore, technically speaking, the products can be installed using either a jointless or open joint method even though the latter is considered more reliable and safe (in some countries it is the only one that can be adopted). In fact, using the open joint method it is possible to reduce the elasticity modulus of the covering layer thus reducing the risk of the product lifting or coming loose. The open joint method makes any installation imperfections less noticeable and makes it easier to check that the joints are correctly filled and will last in time. When jointing, the use of flexible mortars or synthetic based mortars, especially contrasting ones, are not recommended in particular for products with a polished surface.."
