Calacatta 18×36 Honed Marble Tile – White Elegance with Beveled Edges

Installation Guide – 18″x36″ Calacatta Honed Marble Tile

Step 1: Surface Preparation – Solid, Level, and Clean

• Ensure the substrate is flat, with no more than 1/8″ variation over 10 feet.

• Use self-leveling underlayment if needed to achieve a perfectly level surface.

• Confirm the subfloor is dry, stable, and free of dust, grease, or debris.

• Apply a waterproofing membrane in wet areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Step 2: Layout Planning – Precision for Large Tiles

• Identify the room’s center and snap layout lines for symmetry.

• Dry-lay tiles to check veining patterns and color consistency.

• Mix tiles from multiple boxes to harmonize natural variation.

• Plan grout joints of 1/16″ to 1/8″, tight enough to complement beveled edges.

Step 3: Mortar Application – Ensure Strong Adhesion

Recommended Mortars:

• Mapei Ultraflex LFT White

• Laticrete 4-XLT or 254 Platinum White

• Ardex X77 or X90 OUTDOOR White

Tips:

• Use a 1/2″ square-notched trowel for even thin-set coverage.

• Back-butter each tile to prevent hollow spots under large tiles.

• Set tiles while the mortar is fresh and workable.

Step 4: Cutting & Fitting – Smooth, Clean Edges

• Cut tiles with a wet saw and continuous-rim diamond blade suitable for marble.

• Polish exposed edges to match the honed surface.

• Dry-fit tiles to confirm alignment and spacing before final installation.

Step 5: Setting Tiles – Minimize Lippage

• Use a tile leveling system (clips and wedges) to maintain a flat surface.

• Apply even pressure and check alignment with a level regularly.

• Clean excess mortar from joints and surfaces immediately.

• Allow adhesive to cure for 24 hours before grouting.

Step 6: Grouting & Sealing – Protect Your Marble

• Pre-seal honed marble with a penetrating sealer before grouting.

• Use non-sanded grout to protect beveled edges and the honed finish.

• Apply grout diagonally and remove residue promptly.

• Buff off haze with a soft microfiber cloth after 30 minutes.

• Re-seal tiles and grout after full cure (≈72 hours).

Maintenance Tips – Keep Marble Looking Elegant

• Clean with pH-neutral, marble-safe products.

• Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that may damage the stone.

• Reapply sealer every 6–12 months depending on use and exposure.

• Use felt pads under furniture to prevent scratching.

Shipping & Packaging

• Each 18″x36″ honed Calacatta tile is cushioned with corner protectors and packed securely in reinforced crates.

• Inspect all tiles for color, veining, and finish consistency prior to installation.

Important Notes

• Calacatta marble is a natural stone with inherent veining and tone variations.

• Dry-lay tiles before installation to plan layout and pattern flow.

• Stonemarket USA is not responsible for natural stone variation or installation errors.