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The width of the joint can vary according to tile dimensions and the floor’s intended use. Jointless laying is not recommended, whereas laying with a minimum joint of 2-3 mm is advisable (this type of laying enables greater grip by the jointing material on the tile sides, greater absorption of any sub-bed movements and tile compensation).
In very large areas, it is essential to position expansion joints at regular intervals; whereas, for small areas, it is sufficient to leave a slight gap between the tiled area and the perimeter walls. The skirting board will cover the gap, lending a finished appearance. In any event, follow the advice/suggestions of the designer or site manager.
To use epoxy grouts, additions of resin or the like, it is advisable to carry out a true preparatory cleaning test. For better appearance, we suggest using grouts in a shade matching the colour of the tile in order to reduce contrast (e.g. white tile and black grout), especially for lapped and polished products.
After you have grouted tiles in porcelain stoneware, while the grout is still fresh, it is important, to immediately and carefully remove excess grout, with a sponge and plenty of water.
However, several days after laying, it is necessary to clean thoroughly by means of buffered acids (see the post-laying suggestions) in order to dissolve and fully remove site residues. The following products may be used:
Post-laying cleaning is obligatory after on site works.
Inadequate or late removal of the grouting used on the joints can leave marks difficult to remove and create, on the flooring, a cement film able to absorb all types of dirt, thus giving the impression that it is the material that has become dirty. It is indispensable to dissolve and remove these residues completely using buffered acids diluted in water (follow the instructions on the packs of the products used), which must then be removed completely and quickly, rinsing the floor with plenty of water to avoid residues or drops on the floor which could damage the tiles.
Allow the product to act on the wet floor, without letting it dry and rubbing it with colourless rags. Next, rinse it thoroughly with water to ensure that the floor is free of detergent residues. If necessary, repeat the operation. We suggest performing a preliminary wash on a sample surface of a few square meters; if the test is successful, extend clearing over the entire surface. When you have done the above wash, carry out a basic or alkaline wash using degreasing detergents. This is because acid can leave grease on the floor, which could contribute to retaining dirt.
More specifically, Mirage recommends particular care with RC02NAT, RC08NAT, WS01 NAT and OX01 NAT when using buffered acids for cleaning: these materials could damage the surface if not removed in a short time and if traces or drops of the water-acid compound used for cleaning after laying are not removed quickly.