Installation Guide – Step by Step

Stone Properties & Handling – Know Your Material

• Polished Finish: The glossy surface enhances elegance but can scratch easily. Use care when handling and avoid abrasive tools.

• Porosity: Beige Diamond marble is moderately porous. Apply a high-quality penetrating sealer after installation to prevent stains and moisture damage.

• Natural Variation: Expect subtle differences in veining and color between sheets. Dry-lay to preview patterns and ensure consistent flow.

• Acid Sensitivity: Marble reacts to acidic substances. Use only pH-neutral cleaners and avoid spills of acidic liquids.

• Cutting: Use a wet saw with a fine diamond blade. Smooth edges with a stone file or rubbing block to prevent chipping.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

1. Ensure walls or floors are clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, or residues.

2. Verify the substrate is flat, solid, and crack-free.

3. Apply waterproofing in wet areas such as showers, kitchens, or backsplashes.

4. Remove baseboards, outlet covers, or any obstructions that may interfere with tile placement.

5. Level uneven areas using a self-leveling compound if needed.

Step 2: Layout Planning

1. Find the center of the surface to create a balanced layout.

2. Dry-lay the sheets to check the fish scale alignment, veining, and color consistency.

3. Adjust sheet placement to avoid small or awkward cuts at edges and corners.

4. Use 1.5–3 mm spacers between sheets to maintain consistent grout lines.

5. Ensure the curved fish scale patterns flow smoothly from sheet to sheet.

Step 3: Adhesive Application

Recommended Thin-Set Mortars:

• Mapei

• Laticrete

• Ardex

Instructions:

1. Mix thin-set in small batches usable within 30 minutes.

2. Apply adhesive to the surface with the flat side of a 1/4″ notched trowel.

3. Comb adhesive at a 45° angle for even coverage.

4. Lightly back-butter each sheet for stronger adhesion and to reduce lippage.

5. Work in small sections to prevent the thin-set from drying before tiles are placed.

Step 4: Cutting & Fitting

1. Use a wet saw with a fine diamond blade for clean cuts.

2. Mark cuts accurately with a pencil or wax marker.

3. Smooth rough edges using a stone file or rubbing block.

4. Use tile nippers for intricate curve shaping if needed.

5. Dry-fit all cut pieces to confirm alignment and pattern continuity before final placement.

Step 5: Setting Tiles

1. Start in the center of your layout and work outward.

2. Press mesh-backed sheets firmly into the adhesive with a slight twisting motion for full contact.

3. Use spacers to maintain consistent spacing between sheets.

4. Tap sheets lightly with a rubber mallet to ensure a level surface.

5. Remove any excess adhesive immediately with a damp sponge.

6. Allow adhesive to cure for 24 hours before grouting.

Step 6: Grouting & Sealing

1. Use non-sanded grout to protect the polished surface.

2. Apply grout diagonally with a rubber float to fill joints completely.

3. Wipe off excess grout immediately with a damp sponge.

4. Buff haze from the surface gently after 15–20 minutes using a soft cloth.

5. Allow grout to cure for at least 72 hours.

6. Seal with a premium penetrating marble-safe sealer for long-lasting protection.

Maintenance Tips

• Clean regularly using pH-neutral stone-safe cleaners.

• Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaning products to prevent etching.

• Reapply sealer periodically based on usage, especially in wet areas.

• Place felt pads under nearby furniture to avoid scratching.

Shipping & Packaging

• Each mesh-backed sheet is securely packaged to reduce breakage during transit.

• Mesh backing ensures easy alignment and precise installation.

Important Note

• Stonemarket USA is not responsible for improper installation.

• Hiring professional installers and using high-quality adhesives and sealers is strongly recommended for optimal results.