Installation Guide – Carrara White Strip Linear Polished Marble Mosaic Tile
Material Notes
Premium Carrara White marble with a polished finish.
Linear strip mosaics, typically mesh-mounted (~12″x12″ sheets).
Suitable for walls, backsplashes, shower surrounds, and light-traffic floors (verify slip requirements in wet areas).
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, flat (≤1/8″ over 10′), and structurally sound.
Approved substrates include cement backer board, fully cured concrete, or ANSI-compliant mortar beds.
In wet areas, apply an ANSI A118.10 waterproofing membrane as per manufacturer instructions.
Step 2: Dry Layout & Planning
Dry-lay multiple sheets to blend natural color and veining. Confirm the linear strip direction.
Snap level reference lines at top and bottom to maintain straight courses.
Stagger seams and trim mesh edges so sheets interlock seamlessly.
Plan perimeter cuts carefully to avoid narrow slivers and maintain continuous lines.
Step 3: Adhesive Application (White Thin-Set)
Use a white, polymer-modified thin-set rated for natural stone; avoid mastics, especially in wet areas.
Trowel: 3/16″ V-notch or 1/4″x3/16″ V-notch.
Key in thin-set with the flat side, comb in one direction, then lightly flatten ridges to prevent telegraphing through strips.
Work in small areas (10–15 minutes open time) to avoid skinning.
Step 4: Setting Sheets
Align the first sheet with your reference line. Press in using a rubber grout float or beating block for full contact.
Use wedge spacers to maintain straight, uniform linear joints.
Lift and adjust immediately if strips sit proud; back-butter individual strips as needed.
Clean excess thin-set from joints and tile surfaces immediately with a damp sponge.
Step 5: Cutting & Detailing
Use a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade. Apply painter’s tape over cut lines to reduce chip-out.
For small trims, use mosaic nippers sparingly; smooth cut edges with a rubbing stone.
Finish exposed edges with matching stone trim, metal profiles, or moldings.
Step 6: Grouting (Polished Marble)
Allow thin-set to cure (typically 24 hours).
Use unsanded grout for joints ≤1/8″ to protect the polished surface.
Optionally, use a marble-safe grout release or pre-seal to prevent pigment absorption.
Pack joints diagonally with a rubber float and clean with minimal water to avoid washout or staining.
Step 7: Sealing
After grout cures (≈72 hours), apply a penetrating, marble-safe sealer to both stone and grout.
Re-seal periodically based on exposure (every 1–2 years in wet or high-traffic areas).
Maintenance
Clean with pH-neutral, non-abrasive stone cleaners only. Avoid acids, bleach, vinegar, or abrasive pads.
In showers, squeegee or wipe dry to reduce mineral deposits.
Movement Joints
Follow structural and expansion joints per TCNA EJ171 (perimeters, changes of plane, large expanses).
Use 100% stone-safe silicone at inside corners and where tiles meet dissimilar materials.
Important Notes & Disclaimer
Always use white thin-set under light Carrara marble to prevent shadowing or picture-framing.
Blend tiles from multiple boxes to ensure consistent veining and shade.
Natural marble varies; professional installation is strongly recommended. Stonemarket USA is not responsible for substrate or installation issues.
