Royal Beige 18″x18″ Polished Marble Tile – Luxurious Natural Stone

Installation Guide – Step by Step

Step 1: Surface Preparation – Build a Solid Foundation

Clean the substrate thoroughly, removing dust, oils, wax, or debris.
Check for flatness using a long level or straight edge, as polished surfaces highlight unevenness.
In wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens, install a waterproofing membrane.
Use a self-leveling compound to correct dips or high spots for a perfectly even surface.

Step 2: Layout Planning – Ensure Harmony and Flow

Mark centerlines and dry-lay several tiles to plan the layout.
Royal Beige polished marble shows natural veining and subtle color variation—blend tiles from different boxes for a balanced look.
Maintain tight grout lines (1/16″–1/8″) to emphasize the straight edges and polished finish.
Adjust placement to avoid narrow cuts at edges for a cleaner visual effect.

Step 3: Adhesive Application – White, Non-Staining Mortar Only

Recommended Mortars:

• Mapei Ultraflex LFT White

• Laticrete 254 Platinum White

• Ardex X77 White

Instructions:
Use a 1/2″ square-notched trowel to spread mortar evenly.
Back-butter each tile to ensure full coverage and prevent hollow spots that can crack.
Press tiles firmly into fresh mortar and adjust alignment while adhesive is still workable.

Step 4: Cutting & Fitting – Precision Matters

Use a wet saw with a continuous-rim diamond blade designed for marble to prevent chipping.
Test-fit each piece before installation and smooth exposed edges with a marble file or polishing pad.

Step 5: Setting Tiles – Achieve a Flawless Surface

Employ a leveling system to minimize lippage between polished tiles.
Tap tiles gently with a rubber mallet to ensure full contact.
Immediately remove excess mortar with a damp sponge—residue on polished surfaces can dull the finish.
Allow mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before grouting.

Step 6: Grouting & Sealing – Maintain Shine

Pre-seal the polished marble surface before grouting to prevent staining.
Use non-sanded grout for joints ≤ 1/8″ to avoid scratching.
Apply grout diagonally with a rubber float and clean promptly with a damp sponge.
Buff the surface after 15–20 minutes to remove haze without dulling the polish.
Once grout cures fully (about 72 hours), apply a penetrating marble sealer suitable for polished finishes.

Maintenance – Keep the Gloss Intact

• Clean regularly with pH-neutral marble-safe cleaners.

• Wipe up spills immediately, especially acidic liquids like wine, coffee, or citrus.

• Re-seal periodically (every 6–12 months depending on usage).

• Use rugs, mats, or felt pads under furniture in high-traffic areas to prevent scratches.

Shipping & Storage

Each 18″x18″ Royal Beige polished marble tile is carefully packed with protective padding.
Store tiles indoors in a dry, clean environment and inspect before installation.

Important Note

Royal Beige Marble is a natural stone, so slight variations in color and veining are normal. Dry-lay and plan the layout for the most visually pleasing result. Improper handling or installation is not the responsibility of Stonemarket USA.