Un-sanded grout is a dry, Portland cement-based product that is mixed with water
onsite.
The grout mixture is spread over the tiled area with a grout float to fill in all
the joints.
A sponge is then used to remove excess grout from the surface of the tile, while
leaving the grout in the joints to cure.
And that is how your beautiful natural stone floor is professionally installed.
What to know and do before installation day
Deal first with your furniture.
Remove all furniture and other objects and materials from the areas where the installation
will take place. Some installers will move your furniture, but there may be an additional
charge for doing so.
Before moving, you’ll also need to empty the contents of china cabinets, closets
and the like.
Be aware that the area of installation must be climate controlled (heated or air
conditioned). Indoor humidity should be maintained between 45-65%.
Now address your old floor covering.
Please consider how your old floor covering will be taken up and disposed of. This
can be a time consuming task. We recommend that you check with us about the cost
and the method of disposal.
If you prefer to remove your present floor covering, do it at least one day prior
to arrival of your natural stone product to allow for cleanup and floor preparation.
If removing old carpet, please leave tack strips in place and pull the staples out
of the floor from the original pad.
What will you do about your trim?
In many cases, moldings and baseboards need to be removed for natural stone installation.
Your installer may do this but at an additional charge and they will probably not
be responsible for damage or breakage due to dry or brittle wood.
Painted baseboards, woodwork and paint may need retouching after the installation
is complete. If necessary, this is your responsibility.
Next, address the subflooring.
Your existing subfloor may need to be prepared to receive the natural stone, or
a new subfloor may be required. We suggest you discuss this with us and, if subfloor
work is necessary, that it be done by qualified professionals. It is important that
the subfloor be as clean and level as possible.
Ensure that the doors swing free.
When natural stone is installed, there’s always the possibility that the doors,
especially closet doors, basement and bedroom doors, may not clear the new natural
stone and swing free.
Some installers will remove doors in order to install the natural stone and re-hang
them if possible. They probably won’t shave or cut down doors to insure clearance.
You should check with us as to their policy and the cost. You may need to arrange
for a qualified carpenter to provide this service after the installation of your
new natural stone floor.
Stay on top of the clean-up.
Installing new natural stone will produce waste. Usually these materials are collected
by your installer and left at your trash collection site.
Check with us before the day of installation so you’re clear about the clean
up, if there are added costs to do so, and ask about the plan for natural stone
remnants.
What to know and do during installation day
Home is the only place to be.
Be prepared to be at home the day of installation and be available in case the installation
crew has questions.
Your presence will insure that the correct natural stone is installed in the right
areas.
Because it is difficult to estimate the length and circumstances of each job, some
installers may not be able to give you an exact time of arrival. We suggest you
be flexible and keep in touch with us.
The best laid floors are laid safely.
Your installers will use a variety of tools and techniques that can make the work
area hazardous. Please make sure that children and pets are kept out of the work
area on installation day.
Walk-thru and talk it through.
We recommend that, prior to the completion of the installation, you walk thru the
job with the chief installer. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions
and be clear on any final details.
What to know and do after installation day
Breathe free and easy.
If you are sensitive to dust and odors, good ventilation should be established for
48 to 72 hours after installation.
When it comes to installation day be prepared.
Know what to do, when and how. Understand the needs of the installers and the installation
process and your natural stone installation will run smoothly and you will be left
with a beautiful product to enjoy for years to come.