The key to a successful tilework job with natural stone is experience and proper materials.

From a proper layout to the final application of a good protective sealer there is a lot of steps involved in the job.

Proper Sub Floor Preparation.
The method most commonly used by Instile over a wooden floor is to staple galvanized wire lathe to a sound plywood floor and then to "drypack" a level floor of sand and cement mixture using a minimum of 1/2" thickness at the highest points of the floor.

Proper Stone Tile Installation
Depending on the variety, size and color of stone to be installed, Instile uses only the best modified cement adhesives to set the tile.

Using the proper adhesives also minimizes shrinkage which can cause lippage.

Great care and planning goes into the layout of the full tiles and cuts to achieve the best final look.

Great care is also taken to select and position each stone to create the best patterns of light and dark shades and veining.

Grouting – Instile will help you choose the proper grout color to best suit your design criteria.

Cleaning- Natural stone is absorbent and must be thoroughly cleaned using Terraforme #1 heavy duty cleaner to bring out the stone’s natural appearance.

Grind in place- this is an option that is sometimes used if clients want an absolutlely flat floor without any lippage. It is similar to sanding a new hardwood floor.

Sealer – All Instile stone installations are finished with the proper and thorough application of Terraforme #5 sealer. It provides the most effective protection against stains.

Maintenance Program – Do not use water and vinegar on natural stone or any acidic cleaners. Terraforme #9 Neutral Floor Mopping Detergent is specially designed to properly clean and maintain your natural stone floor and it is pH balanced to not harm the stone or the sealer.