MAPEI is exploring the latest trend in large, thin tile to provide what it calls the definitive guide to successful, sustainable installations for the tile floors of the future.

Researchers from two major MAPEI R&D Centers (Milan, Italy, and Deerfield Beach, Fla.) have worked on the issue for over a year, testing surface preparation processes, setting materials, trowel selections and use of mechanical edge-leveling systems. The results, based on hundreds of hours of research on numerous variables in the process, are presented in a “Thin-Body Porcelain Tile Reference Guide for Interior Floors,” available on the MAPEI Website atwww.mapei.us/pdf/InstallationGuides/TSIS/Reference_Guide-Thin_Body_EN.pdf.

“This installation guide for thin tiles 4.5 to 6 mm thick provides all the technical information contractors need to successfully install these new thin tiles on interior floors,” said Brian Pistulka, Business Manager for MAPEI Tile & Stone Installation Systems. “Thin-body porcelain tile installation is markedly different from standard-body (> 7 mm) porcelain tile methods. It requires special setting techniques to prevent breakage during and after installation. The work done in our research labs has provided the first completely documented information on all aspects of this installation process.”

The architectural and design community has embraced large-format thin tiles as a unique design opportunity for new construction as well as renovations of existing residential and commercial properties. With the availability of this reference guide, tile installers can now turn designers’ visions into sustainable reality, according to the company.

Dr. Neil McMurdie, R&D Director for MAPEI Americas, will be presenting MAPEI’s research on thin-tile installations in a free webinar hosted by BNP Media at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 13. For more information and to register,click here.