When it comes to tiling, many people focus only on the material, color, and design, but often overlook the important steps before and after installation. To ensure a flawless finish, it’s essential to understand the key considerations and inspection standards throughout the process.
Before Installation: Quality Inspection is Crucial
First, always check the packaging of the tiles. High-quality ceramic tiles are usually packed in sturdy boxes, while imported or custom-made tiles may be wrapped in foam or tied with ropes. Make sure the box clearly displays the manufacturer's name, product name, trademark, size, grade, weight, color number, and quantity. Double-check that the grade matches what you purchased and that the color numbers are consistent. It’s best to use first-grade tiles or certified products and avoid mixing different color batches to prevent color variation across the space.
Next, examine the tile’s surface. According to national standards, at least 95% of the surface should be free of visible defects when viewed from 0.8 meters away. While most tiles meet this standard, the real test is whether there are any obvious flaws like warping, spots, glaze issues, cracks, or uneven surfaces. Also, check that each tile has a clear trademark on the back and that there’s no residue or sticking on the edges.
During Installation: Attention to Detail Matters
For wall tiles, start by preparing the base. Clean the wall thoroughly and moisten it a day before installation. If it's a new wall, apply cement mortar and wait until it’s 70% dry before setting the tiles. Soak the tiles in clean water for over two hours before use, then let them dry slightly before applying them. When cutting around pipes, switches, or bathroom fixtures, always use whole tiles to maintain a neat appearance—never cut and piece together smaller pieces.
For floor tiles, soak them for at least half a day before laying. Ensure proper drainage in kitchens and bathrooms, making sure water flows outward and doesn’t pool. If the original waterproof layer is damaged, reapply waterproofing and conduct a 12-hour leak test. After laying, protect the floor by covering it with cardboard and avoiding foot traffic for at least 24 hours.
After Installation: Proper Cleaning and Final Checks
Clean up any excess cement or adhesive within one hour of installation, as it becomes harder to remove after four hours. After 12 hours, tap the tiles to check for hollow sounds, and if found, re-lay those sections. Once fully installed, walk on the tiles, scrub them with a cleaning solution, and do a thorough cleaning to ensure a spotless finish.
Final Acceptance Criteria
Ensure the tiles are laid uniformly and aligned properly. Use a 2-meter level to check flatness—errors should not exceed 0.5 mm. The gap between tiles should be straight, with a maximum deviation of 3 mm. Avoid polluting the area during installation and refrain from walking on the tiles until they’re fully set. After 24 hours, clean the grout lines and seal them properly.
Control the hollow sound rate to less than 3%. Any large empty areas in the main path must be reworked, and single corners shouldn't be hollowed out entirely. Cover the tiles with cardboard or old carpets, and use tape to seal the joints, preventing dust and debris from entering. Under normal conditions, a 2 mm error in floor level is acceptable, and the gaps between tiles should be even. Diagonal alignment of tiles should be flat, allowing a 0.3 mm error. In kitchens and bathrooms, the edges should be level (with a 1 mm tolerance) and vertical (with a 2 mm tolerance). For bathrooms and balconies, ensure the floor slope directs water toward the drain. Unless there's a specific reason, no water should be allowed to pool on the floor.
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