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FAQ: Tile Installation, Repair, Cleaning, and Maintenance

Welcome to our FAQ page, where we address common questions about tile installation, repair, cleaning, and maintenance. Whether you’re planning a new tile project, looking to repair existing tiles, or seeking advice on how to keep your tiles looking their best, you’ll find valuable information and expert tips here.

From choosing the right materials and techniques to maintaining the beauty and durability of your tiles, our FAQs cover a wide range of topics to help you achieve the best results. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact our customer service team.

INSTALLATION FAQ

Each tile project is unique and depends on several factors: the product being used, the space where it is being installed, and the time spent on preparation and layout. For any additional questions, please speak with a representative or contact our Customer Service team at (407) 906-6767.
It is recommended to order 10%-15% extra product based on the pattern layout to accommodate cuts and repairs. Since the availability and style of tiles are always changing, having an extra box or two on hand is highly advisable.
The more complex your pattern, the greater the percentage of overage you should consider. We recommend consulting with your tile vendor or supplier representative, or one of our professional installers, to determine the accurate amount of material needed for your project.
There are multiple considerations when determining your grout joint. These include, but are not limited to:
  • Appearance
  • Maintenance
  • Traffic
  • Finish/Edges
  • Material
For more detailed information and recommendations about thinset & grout coverage see chart below.

THINSET & GROUT COVERAGE INFO

Thinset Coverage

 FLOOR APPLICATION

WALL APPLICATION

TROWEL SIZE (based on largest dimension)

COVERAGE (based on 50lbs bag)

 Mesh Mosaics Mesh Mosaics 3/16 inch V-Notch 90 – 100 Sq Ft
 4 inch – 12 inch Tile  4 inch – 12 inch Tile 1/4 inch Square 75 – 85 Sq Ft
 12 inch – 16 inch Tile  12 inch – 16 inch Tile 3/8 inch Square 60 – 70 Sq Ft
 16 inch or larger 16 inch or larger 1/2 inch Square or V-Notch 40 – 50 Sq Ft
 Tile thicker than 3/8 inch Tile thicker than 3/8 inch 1/2 inch Square or V-Notch 40 –  50 Sq Ft
 Ungauged Tile ** Ungauged Tile ** 1/2 inch Square or V-Notch 40 – 50 Sq Ft
 Cement Board Installation 1/4 inch Square 75 – 85 Sq Ft
Sanded
 TILE SIZERECOMMENDED SPACINGSq Ft COVERAGE (based on 25lbs sanded)
 Ceramic Mosaic 1/8 inch 40 – 75 Sq Ft
 Glass/Stone Mosaic 1/8 inch 30 – 50 Sq Ft
 Pebbles varies by sheet 20 – 35 Sq Ft
 3 x 6 inch 1/8 inch 105 – 115 Sq Ft
 4 inch 1/8 inch 105 – 115 Sq Ft
 8 inch 3/16 inch 95 – 105 Sq Ft
 12 inch 3/16 inch 115 – 125 Sq Ft
 18 inch 3/16 inch 140 – 150 Sq Ft
 12 x 24 inch 3/16 inch 130 – 140 Sq Ft
 24 inch 3/16 inch 190 – 200 Sq Ft
Unsanded
3 x 61/16 inch40 – 50 Sq Ft
 4 x 16 inch 1/16 inch 60 – 70 Sq Ft
 8 x 20 inch 1/16 inch 90 – 100 Sq Ft
 10 x 13 inch 1/16 inch 80 – 90 Sq Ft
 12 x 18 inch 1/16 inch 120 – 130 Sq Ft

The difference between sanded and unsanded grout lies in the presence of silica sand. The sand acts as a filler and adds strength, making sanded grout suitable for grout joints larger than 1/8 inch. Unsanded grout is designed for grout joints 1/8 inch or smaller. The width of your grout joint will determine which type of grout should be used. Both sanded and unsanded grout can be used in 1/8 inch grout joints. The suggested grout and finish may also depend on the material type, such as polished marble, travertine, and glass.

Grout selection is as personal a choice as selecting your tile. While we can provide suggestions based on common practices, we strongly recommend that you choose the color that best aligns with your design objectives. For more tailored advice regarding your specific project, please consult your vendor or supplier.
Many variables can affect the time needed for thinset, mastic and floor mix to properly cure. We recommend waiting 24 hours before allowing traffic on any recently installed tile.
Each demolition project is unique, so it is essential to check your local city codes before attempting to remove any old surfaces. Additional safety precautions may be necessary depending on the material involved. Always use eye protection and other appropriate safety equipment to ensure a safe demolition process.

Mozzeli Tiles & Stones recommends ordering 10-15% extra product to account for any breakage or the need for cut pieces during your installation.

Feel free to contact us at (407) 906-6767 or email us at info@mozzelitiles.com.

MAINTENANCE & CARE FAQ

Mozzeli Tiles & Stones recommends using a non-acidic, anti-bacterial cleaner for both man-made materials like ceramic and porcelain, as well as natural stone materials. Grout and Tile Neutral Cleaner and Anti-Bacterial Cleaner are safe options for everyday use on both types of tile. If your natural stone requires deep cleaning or special care, we advise contacting your vendor or supplier representative for more information, as some stones are sensitive to certain cleaning agents.

Best practice is to contact your tile installer. For unexpected situations, we always recommend saving at least one box of tile, depending on the size of your project. Tile dye lots can change, and replacements may not be available later. Always use proper safety equipment, including eye protection.

To remove a damaged tile, follow these steps:

  1. Remove all grout around the damaged tile.
  2. Using a hammer, strike the tile in the middle, breaking it into small pieces.
  3. Utilize a power scraper to remove the remaining pieces, striking from the sides.
  4. Be careful not to damage any surrounding tiles.


For more detailed instructions or assistance, please contact your tile installer.

Yes, we highly recommend sealing your grout. Unsealed grout is more vulnerable to stains and will likely need to be replaced over time. Be careful not to clean your grout with harsh acidic cleaners, as they can strip the sealer from the grout.

The first step to protecting your investment is to seal the stone with the right sealer. Once this has been done, remember to use a PH balanced cleaner, such as Grout and Tile Neutral Cleaner and/or Anti-bacterial cleaner. Never clean with any type of acidic cleaner as this could strip the sealer over time. Acid can also etch polished natural stone. We also suggest using these neutral products to maintain the grout joints on any ceramic, porcelain, or glass tiles.

When properly maintained, the sealer should have a lifespan similar to what is stated on the label; however, this will vary depending on the traffic and use of the space where the tile is installed. The easiest way to determine if your stone or grout needs to be re-sealed is to lightly spray it with water. If the water beads on the surface, the stone and/or grout is still in good condition. If the water is absorbed, it indicates that the sealer should be reapplied.
Sealing and/or enhancing your product will determine its appearance after it has been sealed. Enhancers will “enhance” the appearance of the material, giving it a “wet look” in addition to sealing it. To test out the enhanced look before making it permanent, take a damp cloth or lightly mist your stone and blot/buff it dry to remove the shine. If the enhanced look is something you prefer, note that it is not recommended to apply enhancers to grout joints.
Grout, like stone, is a porous material. Maintaining a sealed product is essential to keep it looking new for a longer period. Neutral pH cleaners are important because they are non-acidic and will not etch polished stone or strip sealers. Consult with your vendor or supplier representative to determine the best product for your application, as some tile products may be sensitive to acids and chemicals.

There are a few methods for removing grout haze, depending on when the grout was applied:

  1. Immediate Cleaning (Within 24 hours):
    • Use a damp sponge or cloth to gently wipe away the haze.
    • Rinse the sponge or cloth frequently with clean water to avoid spreading the haze.
  2. After Initial Cure (24-48 hours):
    • Mix a solution of water and a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner.
    • Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the surface gently, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  3. Hardened Grout Haze (After 48 hours):
    • Use a grout haze remover or a mixture of water and white vinegar (1:1 ratio).
    • Apply the solution to the affected area and scrub gently with a soft brush or pad.
    • Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
  4. Persistent Haze (Several days to weeks):
    • Use a commercial grout haze remover, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Apply the remover, let it sit for the recommended time, and scrub with a nylon scrub pad.
    • Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry the surface with a soft cloth.


Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the tile or grout. For best results, consult with your tile supplier or a professional for specific recommendations based on your tile type and grout condition.

Disclaimer

Mozzeli Tiles & Stones is an independent business and is not affiliated with or endorsed by DalTile, Arizona Tile, Thompson Tile & Stone, Architectural Surfaces, and others. All trademarks, product names, and company names or logos mentioned are the property of their respective owners. Use of these names, logos, and brands does not imply endorsement. Any reference to third-party brands is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a partnership or endorsement by Mozzeli Tiles & Stones.