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Grouting and cleaning after laying
Fillers or mortar coloured with pigments should only be used after carrying out an initial test.
For porcelain stoneware surfaces which are smooth, glazed or lapped, mortar or fillers which are contrast coloured (white tiles and anthracyte, red grouting etc.) cannot be used due to the microporosity caused by the abrasive action of the cutter during processing.
With the use of cement surfacers after grouting the tiles, with the grout still fresh, any excess grout should be removed immediately with a sponge and plenty water.
A few days after laying, clean thoroughly with buffered acids to completely remove and dissolve any residue. It is also important to rinse well until the wash water runs clean.
Liquid extractors are useful for removing dirty wash water, which avoids moving it from one place to another. When work has been completed the tiler should wash the floors with a water and buffered acid solution, to avoid the insufficient or late removal of grout residue leaving marks which may be difficult to remove.
Rondine recommends FILA Deterdek for this operation (follow the recommendations on the container for dilution percentages closely), which is an acid descaling agent that does not give off harmful fumes and combines the descaling action with effective cleaning.
For special areas of application, if waterproof grouting is required, epoxy mortar can be used. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging exactly and adhere to the procedures for use.
When using these products, always consult expert, qualified tilers, as the incorrect application of epoxy mortars could irreversibly compromise the colour and appearance of the tiles.
The use of detergents (anti-corrosive products) which contain hydrofluoric acid could permanently damage the surface of any type of tile. It should be noted that more than 90% of the problems which arise on site are due to incorrect, or even non-existent, washing after laying. Appropriate washing after laying removes laying residue (mortar, adhesive, various types of dirt from the work site) and any remaining surface dirt.
